James Kon
The vaccination drive for senior citizens aged 60 years and above will begin tomorrow, where they will be offered the AstraZeneca vaccine.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Health (MoH), which also said that senior citizens can start making reservations for vaccination slots through the BruHealth app.
“As previously mentioned, it is not mandatory to get the COVID-19 vaccine. However, the public is welcome to register for the COVID-19 vaccine injection when reservations for injection slots are announced according to the implemented phases,” said the MoH statement.
As stated during the MoH’s previous press conference on April 19, based on an overall assessment by the COVID-19 Vaccine Technical Committee, the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine can be offered with several criteria.
Due to the increased risk observed in younger individuals, and the lower risk and higher benefit ratio of those above 60 years, the AstraZeneca vaccine will be offered to adults above the age of 60 years.
The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine can be used in adults aged under 60 years, where the benefits are likely to outweigh the risks for that individual who has made an informed consent based on an understanding of the risks and benefits, and who has personally requested the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.
To date, 10,715 individuals have received their first doses under the National COVID-19 Vaccination Programme.
According to the latest figures, 8,178 individuals have been vaccinated in Brunei-Muara District, 1,034 in Tutong District, 1,009 in Belait District and in 494 in Temburong District.
More information can be obtained at the MoH website at www.moh.gov.bn or via the Health Advice Line at 148 or through the BruHealth app.
