Several Countries Suspend Use of Certain Batches of AstraZeneca Vaccine, Minister Provides Details

Several countries have suspended the use of certain batches of the AstraZeneca vaccine to allow professional committees to determine whether the side effects reported by citizens after vaccination are related to the vaccine or not. Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan announced this during a press briefing following a government meeting.

"We are closely monitoring the situation and are in communication, and when an evaluation is made regarding the cause-and-effect relationship, we will also take measures concerning future negotiations for vaccine procurement," said the minister, emphasizing that AstraZeneca is not currently in use in Armenia.

"At this moment, we do not have AstraZeneca to suspend its use, and we are awaiting the opinions of the professional committees. We are currently in negotiations for the procurement of that vaccine and will rely on the assessments of international organizations. In addition to AstraZeneca, we will also have other vaccines," Avanesyan stated.

The minister reported that vaccinations against the coronavirus have already begun in Armenia, targeted at small groups of citizens in high-risk categories and healthcare workers. Currently, Avanesyan noted, vaccinations are being carried out only with the 'Sputnik V' vaccine.

"We are in constant contact with vaccinated citizens and are conducting post-vaccination monitoring. At this stage, we have not recorded any extraordinary incidents or acute side effects," she emphasized. Avanesyan also informed that in light of the increase in coronavirus infections, the bed capacity in hospitals has been increased.