Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) has stated the COVID-19 vaccine is the most effective after taking two doses.
Speaking at a press conference, Dr. Ahmed Faisal said it will take time to ensure full protection through the vaccine. As such, the doctor said the immune system is able to fully build its defence against COVID-19 two weeks after the second dose is administered. Therefore, he expressed belief the danger of COVID-19 will start to lower once the second dose of the vaccine is administered to the population.
Dr. Faisal further stated the main purpose of the COVID-19 vaccine is to decrease the severity of the disease to those who are infected. He said once the vaccine starts to work, deaths due to COVID-19 are expected to be eliminated.
Maldives began the COVID-19 vaccination programme on February 1. Over 70,000 people have so far received the first dose of the vaccine. HEOC revealed the second dose can be given 8 weeks after the first dose.