Cameroon to push through with AstraZeneca vaccine against COVID-19

Health Minister Dr Manaouda Malachie has addressed worries over the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine Cameroon intends to import.

The vaccine it should be noted, has been suspended by some Western states over safety reasons.

“After the suspension of the AstraZeneca vaccine by some countries on precautionary basis, I have just urgently consulted the Scientific Council and NITAG for advice” tweeted Minister Manaouda.

Cameroon, the minister suggested, would likely push through with use of the vaccine:
“This vaccine is currently used in many countries, both in the West and in Africa, without any major problems” he stated.

European Union health experts say there’s no clear proof the vaccine is linked to an increased risk of blood clot.

Denmark, Norway and Iceland have however temporarily suspended the rollout of the AstraZeneca vaccine, the BBC reports, adding that Italy and Austria have stopped using certain batches of the drug as a precautionary measure.

Minister Manaouda had urged Cameroonians to take the vaccine if need be, highlighting that vaccination would not be mandatory.

MMI