The Dean of the Oceania University of Medicine in Samoa has appealed to members of the public to get vaccinated to protect from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Samoa Observer reports Toleafoa Dr. Viali Lameko says that the comparatively low uptake of the first COVID-19 vaccine is putting the nation’s public health at risk.
“First doses done to date is only [47,909 or] 39.3 per cent of eligible population, that means we need the other 60 percent eligible to complete at least the first dose.”
“It is very important for the whole nation.”
The AstraZeneca vaccine used in Samoa requires a second shot up to eight weeks after the first to ensure maximum vaccine efficacy.
Toleafoa said proof of how vital vaccinations is supported by what is happening in neighbouring Fiji.
“My humble request is that members of the public should heed of the call by the Ministry of Health to get their COVID-19 vaccinations,” said Toleafoa.
“We have to consider what is happening in Fiji; they had four deaths yesterday and have more than 200 positive cases on a daily basis. People need to consider this.”
