Cyprus to start receiving H1N1 vaccine early October

From October 5, Cyprus will gradually begin receiving the vaccine for influenza H1N1, Minister of Health Christos Patsalides announced, adding that vaccinations will begin after October 15, when the European Pharmaceutical Organisation will give the final approval for the vaccine.

In statements on Thursday, Patsalides said it was not easy for Cyprus to be in the first phase of countries to receive the vaccine because it is a small country with a small population, adding that the government has estimated to receive vaccines for 400,000 people, which covers 50% of the population.

Patsalides said the vaccination will begin with the most vulnerable groups of people and the Ministry will cooperate with the Pancyprian Medical Association and has mapped out a plan to make sure vaccinations will cover the island.

Asked what will happen if the World Health Organisation does not secure the safety of the vaccination, Patsalides said that every country has its own safety measures and for this reason every country will be able to use its own criteria of national security to use the vaccine.

Regarding the changes that are necessary in the public health sector, the Minister said there are many issues that need to change and these can only be achieved “if we prepare the right structures.''

''I insist that these changes are necessary and must be done,” he concluded.