Deputy Director General of Health Services Dr. Hemantha Herath says concerns have arisen with the importation of Sputnik-V vaccine doses, required as the second dose.
Speaking at a media briefing, Dr. Herath said individuals who received the first Sputnik-V jab will not face major delays in receiving the second jab.
Dr. Herath stated that a second jab will not be administered in the event recommendations by experts are put forth that one dose of the Sputnik-V vaccine would be sufficient.
Dr. Herath said a certain uncertainty built up over the Sputnik-V vaccine, adding that at present the coronavirus situation in Russia has led to the present concern.
He noted research is being conducted at present of one’s immunity following the administration of the first dose of the Sputnik-V vaccine.
Dr. Hemantha Herath stated that just as the delay in the AstraZeneca vaccine was addressed, the delay in the Sputnik-V vaccine arriving in the island will also be resolved.
The Deputy Director General claimed that individuals who are hesitant to obtain the vaccine will not be forced into getting themselves vaccinated.
Dr. Herath said this is the policy of the Ministry of Health adding that laws will not be enforced to force persons to get vaccinated.
The Deputy Director General while claiming the Ministry respects an individual’s right to not obtain a vaccine, they seek to inquire into reasons for hesitancy among the public, and why they believe they don’t need a vaccine dose and other beliefs.
He stated the purpose is to explain to the public the importance of obtaining a vaccine.
Dr. Herath said if the public protests against the vaccine, then the protection that is expected from the coronavirus cannot be met.
