Africa is reportedly escalating the vaccination for COVID-19 for high-risk population groups. According to sources, almost 50% of people over 60 are vaccinated fully against the virus in countries that are reporting data to the WHO (World Health Organization).
While data obtained from 31 countries reporting about COVID-19 vaccinations of high-risk groups demonstrates a substantial increase compared to the end of December 2021, when only 33% of health workers and 10% of seniors were fully vaccinated.
According to World Health Organization, 90% vaccination coverage should be for healthcare workers and 80% for people above 60.
Only 2 countries in Africa – Mauritius and Seychelles have vaccinated around 70% of their total population. Meanwhile, Rwanda is estimated to accomplish its target by the end of this month based on its current uptake, bringing the number of African countries to 3 that have successfully vaccinated 70% of the population by June.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, said that it is not accessible to dose, and expensive postponements and shortfalls have delayed the progress of Africa’s COVID-19 vaccination so far.
The young population of Africa has aided the continent in facing the COVID-19 pandemic. As safeguarding the young people at high risk of COVID-19 is dominant.
Putting efforts into vaccinating health workers, older people, and other susceptible populations will ensure that the country stays one step further from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, WHO has recommended that countries must remain focused on high-priority populations like health workers, older people, and people with comorbidities, and combine vaccination in fixed health facility sites and expand vaccination transfer strategies, along with putting efforts to take the vaccination to the people via mass vaccination operations and strengthening of routine immunization activities.
Source Credit - https://www.afro.who.int/news/africa-steps-targeted-covid-19-vaccination-most-risk-people