Muscat: Oman’s Health Minister, Dr. Ahmed Al Saeedi, revealed during the 23rd press conference of the Supreme Committee that once adequate quantities of vaccine is made availableit will be distributed to the private sector. He said it is premature now to take such a measure.
Oman currently is on an inoculation drive with Pfizer as well as Astra Zeneca vaccines, with over 32 per cent of the population having received the shots as of February 24.
The first phase started with the coverage of frontline medical staff and among general population, those with immuno-compromised health above 65 years of age. As per the announcement by Dr. Saeedi, this week will see the start of vaccination for those who are 60 and above.
40 centres
As of now, the vaccination is administered at around 40 centres across Oman. Within the Muscat governorate the centres are Al Seeb Specialised Polyclinic, Bausher Specialised Polyclinic and Quriyat Polyclinic.
Oman has also ensured formalities to secure 200,000 doses of vaccine from Johnson and Johnson that has proved safe and effective in clinical trials and is awaiting FDA approval that could come anytime now. Oman’s health minister also assured that no vaccine will be used unless its safety is confirmed.