Over 894,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered in the Republic of Moldova so far. More than 516,000 persons got the first dose, while 338,000 got both of the doses, secretary of state at the Ministry of Health, Labor and Social Protection Denis Cernelea stated in a news conference, being quoted by IPN.
According to him, over 78,000 vaccine doses were administered last week, up 37% on a week before. Over 500 vaccination units work all over the country. The average vaccination rate on the European continent is 46% and Moldova also aims to reach such a level.
So far, the Ministry of Health received over 1 million vaccine doses. The National Public Health Agency does not have vaccines in stock. They were all distributed to the national vaccination units. Over 330,000 vaccine doses are available at present. Of all the vaccine doses received by Moldova, AstraZeneca was administered at the level of 92% (no dose expired), Pfizer - 100%, Sinovac – 69%, Sinofarm – 21%.
The COVID-19 incidence rate for the past 14 days is of 28 cases per 100,000 people. In general, the number of COVID-19 cases on the European continent grew by 40% the past two weeks. In Moldova, the number of cases was stable last week. Of the 478 confirmed cases, 28 were imported. Of the 279 infected persons who are now in hospitals, 53 are in a very serious state. Over 500 infected persons are receiving treatment at home.
According to Denis Cernelea, given the rise in the number of COVID-19 cases outside the country, an increase is possible in Moldova too. Therefore, the infection prevention measures should be obeyed.
Epidemiologist Laura Țurcan said that 1,441 adverse events following immunization have been reported since the start of the vaccination campaign. This is 0.16% of the vaccinated persons. 93% of those immunized had only injection site pain or low-grade fever that passed in one-two days. The moderate events with high fever and allergic reactions that lasted for three-four days represented about 7%. No other forms of adverse events were recorded.
In another development, National Public Health Agency acting director Vasile Guștiuc said there are discussions about the mandatory immunization of particular categories of people, such as education system employees, workers of the hospitality industry and drivers, so as to reduce the risk of spread of the virus.
