Bangladesh likely to get first lot of vaccine by Jan 25 or Jan 26

The first batch of coronavirus vaccine is expected to arrive in the country on January 25 or January 26 from India’s Serum Institute.

Health Minister Zahid Maleque said this at a press conference following a meeting on vaccination held at his office on Thursday.

The minister said, “The first shipment of vaccines is expected to arrive in the country from the Serum Institute on January 25 or January 26.  We have taken preparations for its transport and storage. It will be possible to keep more than 6 lakh doses of vaccine in the storage facilities available in each district. We can keep more than 2 lakh doses in upazila level storage.”

He told journalists that 42,000 workers which include technologists, nurses, midwives and volunteers, are now receiving training on vaccination process.

A high-powered national committee has been set up to ensure proper implementation of the vaccine, said Zahid Maleque adding that, “Principal Secretary is head of this committee. The vaccine committee will work under his leadership. Committees have also been formed at district and upazila level. All kinds of cooperation are being given to that committee from the Health Ministry.”

About vaccine registration, the Health Minister said, “An app is under process so that the vaccine can be given properly. ICT Ministry is making it. We are cooperating with them as needed. Vaccine candidates can register through the app. By providing necessary information through the app a candidate can be registered. Later, he will get the time and place to receive the vaccine.”