First Batch of AstraZeneca Vaccine Arrives in Armenia with 24,000 Doses

The first batch of the COVID-19 vaccine, through the COVAX FACILITY initiative, has arrived in the Republic of Armenia, containing 24,000 doses. This was reported by the Ministry of Health of Armenia.

The vaccine is intended for at-risk groups, specifically healthcare workers, individuals aged 65 and over, chronic illness patients aged 16 to 64, residents and staff of elderly care facilities, and staff of social care centers, based on the principle of volunteerism.

The AstraZeneca vaccine against COVID-19 has been acquired through the COVAX FACILITY initiative. The vaccine has received emergency use authorization from the World Health Organization (WHO) and is applicable for individuals aged 18 and above.

Thanks to the efforts of the Ministry of Health and through negotiations, it was possible to receive the first batch of the vaccine within the designated timeframes. Armenia is among the few countries that have managed to obtain this long-awaited vaccine, while many countries around the world are still fighting for this right.

The application of the vaccine plays a crucial role in the process of preventing the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the efficacy and safety data of the imported vaccine meet the standards set by the WHO. It is noteworthy that according to the latest announcement related to the third phase of clinical trials for AstraZeneca in the US (03/25/2021), the vaccine provides 76% efficacy in preventing symptomatic COVID-19, 100% efficacy in preventing severe or critical cases and hospitalizations, and 85% efficacy in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 among individuals aged 65 and over.

Vaccinations in the Republic of Armenia are conducted solely on a voluntary basis.