The Minister of Health in the caretaker government, Hamad Hassan, stated that "the desired goal has been achieved on time with professionalism and skill despite the significant obstacles and some skepticism and confusion," following the arrival of the first batch of the COVID-19 vaccine in Lebanon.
Hassan said on Twitter that "the vaccine is a successful and decisive weapon in combating the pandemic, and we must register on the platform and strictly adhere to preventive measures." He added, "The time for risky ventures and preferences has passed; protecting our loved ones is now in our hands."
The Minister announced at the airport the arrival of the Pfizer vaccine in Beirut, a year after the first COVID-19 case was reported in Lebanon, expressing his satisfaction and joy over the arrival of the Pfizer vaccine in Beirut.
Hassan noted that the government was able, despite all challenges and with the support of the President of the Republic, the Speaker of Parliament, and the caretaker Prime Minister, to realize this dream. He emphasized that the vaccine will reach every Lebanese citizen without political or sectarian considerations and will be available to all residents of Lebanon.
In a related context, the head of the "Social Medical Gathering," Professor Raef Reda, stated in a statement that the decision has been made to vaccinate with the Russian and Chinese vaccines, as they have been tested on millions of people worldwide without significant side effects, and their success rates exceed 90%.
Reda warned about the efficacy of some vaccines against mutated viruses, questioning why Pfizer forced the government to agree that it would not be responsible for any serious side effects that may occur later.
