Kingdom sets stage for COVID vaccination

AMMAN —  The Kingdom’s epidemiological curve is witnessing stability, Health Minister Nathir Obeidat said on Monday.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Prime Ministry to acquaint the public with the latest developments relating to the COVID-19 crisis, Obeidat noted that any decision on Friday lockdowns will be announced according to the epidemiological updates.

Today’s main challenge revolves around devising an inoculation programme that would contribute to ameliorating the epidemiological situation, Obeidat said, adding that Jordan possesses the potential to ensure the success of the programme, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

In regard to the coronavirus vaccination, it will be delivered in batches to the Kingdom in the next two to three weeks, the health minister said, adding that “there is no evidence that the vaccine is less effective in tackling the new COVID mutant”.

Expressing hopes in increasing the percentage of vaccine receivers to cover 25 per cent instead of 20 per cent of the Jordanian population, Obeidat reassured the general public about the safety of the vaccine, noting that the approved vaccines do not lead to any serious complications.

The Kingdom will adopt a new virus testing method with the arrival of new COVID test kits next weeks. The new test is considered quicker than the PCR and will be utilised in certain settings such as factories, schools and large social gatherings.

Obeidat also noted that both Irbid and Aqaba field hospitals will be inaugurated soon, Petra reported.

Jordan remains at the “heart of the fight” against the coronavirus, and the epidemiological situations, though positive, remains critical, Obeidat underlined, calling for adherence to health measures.