
Frontline workers will be the first group to receive their doze of the COVID-19 vaccine when Vanuatu rolls out its vaccination programme which is targeted to commence next month.
Director Public Health Len Tarivonda said frontline workers are border workers, quarantine facility staff, public transport workers, people aged 55 and above.
Another priority group is people aged 35 and above with medical conditions.
According to Tarivonda, Vanuatu will receive 24,000 does of AstraZeneca through the COVAX facility.
He said this should cover 20% of the population eligible for the vaccination.
COVAX facility is a global procurement mechanism facilitated by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, WHO and UNICEF.
Tarivonda said the Ministry of Health is trying to identify other options for additional vaccines through bi-lateral partners.
The ministry and its partners are conducting intensive advocacy and community engagement activities to ensure a successful vaccination programme.
There are currently no COVID-19 cases in isolation or quarantine in Vanuatu.
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