HALF a million Covid-19 vaccines donated by Ireland through the COVAX facility have arrived in Nigeria.
The donation of 500,000 single-dose Janssen vaccines will support Nigeria’s national rollout where the vaccination rate is below two per cent, a joint statement from the country’s Department of Health and Department of Foreign Affairs said.
It is the first consignment of vaccines donated by Ireland through COVAX, a worldwide initiative aimed at ensuring equitable access to Covid-19 vaccines that is directed by the Gavi Vaccine Alliance and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The WHO has indicated that a global vaccination rate of 70 per cent is needed by mid-2022, if the world is to stem the spread of Covid-19 and reduce the risk of further mutations in the coronavirus.
Ireland’s Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said: “Following Ireland’s recent direct donation of over 300,000 vaccines to Uganda, I welcome the first deliveries of vaccine doses donated through the COVAX process.
“This significant donation of 500,000 vaccines to Nigeria represents Ireland’s continued commitment to universal access to Covid-19 vaccines and their fair and equitable distribution as we work together to bring this global pandemic under control.”
