Omanis in talks with the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) to obtain 700,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines once they are produced, according to the sultanate's minister of health.

In a statement issued to Oman News Agency, Dr. Ahmed Al Saidi, Minister of Health said: “There is continuous coordination between the Sultanate represented by the Ministry of Health and the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization, in order to obtain 700,000 doses of coronavirus vaccine as soon as it is manufactured and produced.”

Gavi’s core partners include the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, the World Bank and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Several countries and private charities have pledged to make COVID-19 vaccine widely available.

"There are various efforts made by the Ministry on several aspects to secure access to the vaccine after its safety and effectiveness are confirmed. The Sultanate is seeking to participate in developing research related to this vaccine, which will ensure the country has the priority to obtain it once it is manufactured,” the statement added.

Oman has imposed a ban on travel between all its governorates from July 25 to August 8, to curb the spread of COVID-19.

The sultanate has also implemented a daily curfew from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. during the period, which includes Eid Al-Adha holidays. Shops and public spaces will be closed during the hours of curfew.

Oman on Sunday confirmed 1,147 new coronavirus cases, bringing the country's total infections to 76,005.

(Writing by Seban Scaria seban.scaria@refinitiv.com; editing by Daniel Luiz)

#OMAN #COVID19 #VACCINE

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The content does not provide tax, legal or investment advice or opinion regarding the suitability, value or profitability of any particular security, portfolio or investment strategy. Read our full disclaimer policy here.  

© ZAWYA 2020