Fiji targets to get 1.2 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine – Dr Waqainabete

Health Minister, Doctor Ifereimi Waqainabete says Fiji is targeting to get 1.2 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as they aim to vaccinate 600,000 people in the country.

The first doses of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine were administered to 10 frontline workers at the Nadi International Airport today.

Receiving the first jab, Doctor Ratu Mara Vukivuki from the Lautoka Hospital highlighted that having the vaccine is very important during this fight against COVID-19.

RFMF Head of COVID-19 Security Taskforce, Major Neumi Vakadewabuka also called on all Fijians to register in order to be vaccinated.

Doctor Waqainabete says they aim to give the first jabs to the 6,000 frontline workers which include health staff, airport and customs workers and members of the disciplined forces.

The second jab will be given within 8 to 10 weeks after the first jab.

He also says they are hoping Fiji continues to receive the supply of more vaccines as they want to make sure we have the ability to give the second round of doses.

The Health Minister says the main issue is access to vaccines and options to procure vaccines. It has been highlighted that the COVAX facility may provide 108,000 doses to Fiji while the Minister for Economy had also stated earlier that we have the capacity to even buy the vaccines if the need arises.

Doctor Waqainabete says it is critical to get the vaccines to help rebuild our economy.

Doctor Waqainabete says it is important to register for the vaccination process as countries would eventually want to see the certification of the people that they have been vaccinated, and the Ministry can also quickly locate the person to tell them they need to get the second dose.

The first 'jabs' were administered to: MOH - Dr Ratu Mara Vukivukisevu. MOH nurse - Pratika Singh. MOH Health inspector - Setareki Raiula. RFMF's Major Neumi Vakadewabuka. FRCS - Sanjeep Reddy. Hotelier - Daniel Roy. Fiji Airways Purser - Maria Vani. ATS Assistant Manager Passenger Services - Nairah Pakeezah Mohammed. Fiji Police Force Officer in Charge Border Police - Superintendent Aisake Kafoa. Fiji Airports - Joe Grey.

[images: Fijian Government/Facebook]