Moldova will get the first COVID-19 vaccines within three months and an accessible national vaccination program could start next autumn, the deputy head of the Chisinau Health Division Boris Gîlca stated, being quoted by IPN.
“We must secure compliant vaccines from all the sources and all the authorized producers. At the first stage, the vaccine will be provided by the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (up to 20% of free vaccines). A particular quantity will be donated to the Republic of Moldova by Romania (of the amount allocated to Romania by the EU). The other doses we will have to buy ourselves gradually, in small amounts, from any eligible producer (to which the Republic of Moldova will have access), through efficient communication at intergovernmental level, diplomacy and ensuring of strategic partnerships,” Boris Gîlca posted on Facebook.
Boris Gîlca said the COVID-19 vaccines will be free for everyone, but several efficient strategic instruments should be devised for the vaccination process. About 2 million people globally have been vaccinated by now. The validated vaccines ensure immunological efficiency and excellent safety. Vaccines made by a Russian producer and three Chinese producers are waiting for the final authorization. “The global demand for such vaccines is enormous and unprecedented. The big powers, regrettably, have now priority access to vaccines.”
Boris Gîlca also said that at least 70% of the population in Moldova should be vaccinated to ensure collective immunity. This means about 1.5 million shots are needed. “Until then, we must wear protective masks correctly and maintain physical and social distancing, wash the hands more often and celebrate the holidays at home, in a narrow circle.”
COVID-19 vaccination started in all the EU member states, including Romania, on December 27.
