Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) has stated all vaccination facilities are prepared for any situation that may follow upon COVID-19 vaccination.
Speaking at a press conference, HEOC Spokesperson and Head of the National Vaccination Programme Dr. Fathimath Nazla Rafeeq said all the allocated vaccination facilities in the Maldives have been prepared for emergency response and treatment of individuals who may have a reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Nazla noted all individuals getting vaccinated must remain in the vaccination facility for 15 minutes after receiving the dose. She noted all individuals receiving the vaccine are also required to fill a questionnaire during the registration process, and will be given an information card on the vaccine.
Speaking further, the spokesperson said individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 can also get vaccinated if more than 28 have passed since recovery. She added there must be at least 14 days between receiving the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine.
Dr. Nazla noted the full protection of the vaccine can only be acquired by completing two doses of the vaccine. She added personal safety measures must still be taken even after receiving the vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccination began in the Maldives on February 1. During the first round of vaccination, healthcare workers and frontline social workers will be prioritised. Over 560 healthcare workers have been trained for vaccination.