About 7 billion doses of coronavirus vaccines have been given globally, with nearly 50% of the world’s population vaccinated with at least one dose. In Moldova, the vaccination rate is a lowly 25%, hampering efforts to curb the spread of the virus. The subject was discussed at the scientific conference “Together we stop the Covid pandemic”.

In addition, according to a press release from the Ministry of Health, the national childhood immunization program for diseases that include measles, diphtheria, and whooping cough also sees declining vaccination rates, with a decrease of 5% for almost every type of vaccine compared to 2019. This creates a major risk of importing diseases that have not been reported for decades in Moldova, such as diphtheria and polio.

National Public Health Agency head Nicolae Jelamschi stated that ANSP’s priority is to reduce morbidity and mortality caused by COVID-19 by ensuring timely administration of safe and effective vaccines. “Only through joint efforts can we return to the previous social life”, said Nicolae Jelamschi.

Ministry of Health secretary Svetlana Nicolaescu stated that according to the data collected so far, the vaccine against COVID-19, similar to vaccines against other infectious diseases, is the most effective, safest solution to end the pandemic. It is very important to keep up with the new evidence as it appears, while the academia and scientists should translate them into practical recommendations.

The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the World Health Organization, UNICEF Moldova, the World Bank and other partners, is conducting the Immunization Week during October 25-31.