The first batch of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine is expected to be available in Qatar before the end of this month and the inoculation would begin with the most vulnerable people , including those with chronic diseases and the elderly among others, Dr Abdul Wahab al-Musleh , Advisor Consultant to the Minister of Public Health, has told Al Kass TV Channel.
He said that more vaccine will arrive in batches by the start of next year because the demand for the vaccine is very high. He pointed out that the vaccine would be optional and not compulsory as is the case all over the world. However, some entities and places, such as travel ports and sports events may demand a certificate of vaccination from people to allow access and services.
He explained that the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine is to be administered in two doses three weeks apart to build up the required immunity against the coronavirus. He also stressed that current research indicates that it could provide protection for up to nine months, but this is not confirmed because the issue is new and no practical or long-term clinical studies have been conducted yet.
In the meantime, he stressed the effective measures taken by the country to protect the sports people and hold sports events while maintaining the safety and health of the participants and the public as well. He said that there are strict protective and preventive precautionary measures against Covid-19 to be followed at the upcoming Amir Cup, which is a major sports event held with a considerable number of spectators. He said that the country has successfully managed to curb and contain the spread of infection among the people and the sports community in particular.
According to him, unlike other places in the world, Qatar hosted some popular sports events with almost no infections reported. "This highlights the success and effectiveness of the health and protection strategy followed by the authorities concerned."
He explained that the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine is to be administered in two doses three weeks apart to build up the required immunity against the coronavirus. He also stressed that current research indicates that it could provide protection for up to nine months, but this is not confirmed because the issue is new and no practical or long-term clinical studies have been conducted yet.
In the meantime, he stressed the effective measures taken by the country to protect the sports people and hold sports events while maintaining the safety and health of the participants and the public as well. He said that there are strict protective and preventive precautionary measures against Covid-19 to be followed at the upcoming Amir Cup, which is a major sports event held with a considerable number of spectators. He said that the country has successfully managed to curb and contain the spread of infection among the people and the sports community in particular.
According to him, unlike other places in the world, Qatar hosted some popular sports events with almost no infections reported. "This highlights the success and effectiveness of the health and protection strategy followed by the authorities concerned."