Restrictions Aim to Exclude Virus Spread as Much as Possible in Workplaces: Minister of Health

The National Assembly is discussing the restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan stated that the restrictions starting from October 1 aim to prevent and reduce morbidity, mitigate health damage, prevent severe and critical illness progression, and most importantly, avoid deaths.

According to the Minister, vaccines have always played a crucial role and have saved lives from infections both in childhood and regarding other diseases. Avanesyan noted that the restrictions also aim to exclude the spread of infections in workplaces as much as possible.

The Minister confirmed that there is indeed a differential approach to vaccines. "Each producing country decides its policy regarding which vaccine to prioritize, the level of analysis required for registration of which vaccines, and at what stage to allow the import of those vaccines into its country. Armenia is guided by a single principle: to ensure a variety of vaccines in Armenia that will allow citizens to move freely between different countries," she said.

She pointed out that if a third dose of the vaccine is required, it should be administered. Avanesyan emphasized that the vaccine does not eliminate the risk of infection, nor can any medication or medical intervention guarantee 100% safety. "Do the medications taken against the coronavirus guarantee 100% recovery? The figures show they do not. Unfortunately, 20% of those infected experience severe illness, 5% have critical illness, and 2% die. So what should we do, not treat ourselves?" she noted, assuring that currently, no serious side effects have been reported from vaccination.

"Yes, there have been some complaints of high fever, which have been investigated. There have been individuals who felt the need for additional examination, which the state has covered at its expense," said Anahit Avanesyan.