North Macedonia is ramping up its vaccination efforts against COVID-19, with a significant increase in public interest and participation. The Ministry of Health reported that over 12,000 citizens received vaccinations in a single day, reflecting a growing commitment to achieving high vaccination rates across the country.
Key Takeaways
- Over 12,000 vaccinations administered in one day.
- Approximately 30,000 citizens expressed interest in vaccination through the new online platform.
- The vaccination campaign prioritizes health workers and vulnerable populations.
Vaccination Statistics
The Ministry of Health has provided the following statistics regarding the vaccination campaign:
| Age Group | Percentage Vaccinated |
|---|---|
| Over 70 years | 60% |
| Over 65 years | 58% |
| Over 60 years | 53% |
| Over 50 years | 43% |
As of the latest reports, a total of 760,961 doses have been administered, with 293,139 citizens having received their second dose. The vaccination process is ongoing at various points throughout the country, making it accessible to all citizens.
Increased Public Interest
The recent surge in vaccination applications can be attributed to the launch of the online platform "Vakcinacija.mk," where citizens can express their interest in receiving the vaccine. This initiative has seen about 30,000 registrations, indicating a strong desire among the population to get vaccinated.
Minister of Health Venko Filipče emphasized that the vaccination campaign is crucial in combating the spread of COVID-19, especially with the emergence of new variants. He noted that approximately 20% of recent cases are attributed to the British variant of the virus.
Vaccination Phases
The vaccination rollout is structured in three phases, focusing on priority groups:
- Health Workers: Those working directly with COVID-19 patients.
- Vulnerable Populations: Individuals over 70 years and those with underlying health conditions.
- General Population: Gradual inclusion of younger age groups as vaccine availability increases.
Challenges and Future Plans
Despite the positive momentum, the vaccination campaign faces challenges, including delays in vaccine deliveries from Serbia due to technical documentation requirements. The government is working to resolve these issues to ensure a steady supply of vaccines.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Health is committed to maintaining the pace of vaccinations and encouraging mass participation. Citizens are urged to register and take advantage of the available vaccination points to help curb the spread of the virus.
In conclusion, North Macedonia’s vaccination campaign is gaining traction, with increasing public interest and a structured approach to immunization. The government remains focused on achieving high vaccination rates to protect the health of its citizens and combat the ongoing pandemic.
