The Minister of Information in the caretaker government, Dr. Manal Abdel Samad Najd, affirmed that the media played a vital role in highlighting the vaccine and its importance.
Abdel Samad pointed out in her appearance on "Lebanese Broadcasting Corporation - International" that the media plan (regarding the fight against COVID-19) had a significant impact, as it increased the registration rates for vaccination. She explained that with each phase of this plan, a considerable increase in vaccine registration was observed, indicating that the media has performed an essential role in emphasizing the vaccine and its importance.
Abdel Samad reiterated her assurance of "the right of journalists to benefit from the initiative, and that they should have priority in vaccination." The minister noted that no amendments have been made in this regard, and the debate and confusion are related to scheduling appointments, with no interference in the timings themselves. She stressed the importance of vaccination for journalists due to the risks they face, especially as they report on patients' conditions in ambulances, hospitals, protests, and other unsafe environments.