The Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, has reacted to concerns raised regarding one specific batch of the AstraZeneca vaccine, namely ABV5300 linked to an observed side effect.
Shuaib in a press statement made available by the office of the Secretary to the Federal Government, SGF, said that Nigeria did not receive any doses from the said batch of concerns and investigations are ongoing to determine the true picture.
He said that rigorous protocols were followed in the procurement of this vaccine and enhanced multi-sectoral collaboration among stakeholders and technical entities such as the FMOH, NPHCDA, NAFDAC, WHO, and UNICEF whose co-operation ensures the highest global standards were duly consulted before distribution to Nigerians.
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The Executive Director reiterated that since vaccination started earlier this month in the country, there has been no similar adverse reactions, as all side effects reported by those who have been administered the vaccine have been mild.
Shuaib assured the safety of the vaccine delivered to Nigeria is paramount to the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, and that the clinical evidence of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine indicates, its safe and effective.
The country’s assessment is in line with countries such as Spain and the UK who have indicated that they will continue to administer the vaccine because it remains an important tool to protect against COVID-19.
Shuaib assured that the PTF will continue to monitor developments regarding ABV5300 batch and will share further information as it becomes available.
( Editor: Omor Bazuaye)
