Spokesperson of the Health Emergency Operations Center (HEOC), Dr. Fathimath Nazla Rafeeq has said that the paperwork has been submitted to acquire COVID-19 vaccine for 20 percent of the Maldivian populations.

Speaking at the HEOC press conference today on the national vaccination program, Dr. Nazla said the paper work has been submitted to the WHO-led COVAX Facility which is a global initiative that brings together governments and manufacturers to ensure eventual COVID-19 vaccines reach those in greatest need, whoever they are and wherever they live.

Since the Maldives has joined the COVAX initiative, the country will be receiving free COVID-19 vaccine for 20 percent of the population. The Maldives is among 171 countries that have joined the initiative alongside 71 high income countries.

Along with free vaccines, Dr. Nazla said that the COVAX Facility also allows the opportunity to buy more vaccine as needed and the government is working to acquire more vaccine by working with other countries.

And so, a vaccination system along with date management is being established under a National Steering Committee, according to Dr. Nazla.

Meanwhile, a special committee has been formed to research the vaccine on its side effects while the health sector and other industries prepares for the vaccination program.