COVID-19 vaccination in Sri Lanka

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== COVID-19 Vaccination in Sri Lanka ==

The COVID-19 vaccination in Sri Lanka is an ongoing immunization campaign against COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. The campaign aims to vaccinate the population to curb the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19.

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic reached Sri Lanka in early 2020, leading to significant public health challenges. The government of Sri Lanka, in collaboration with international organizations and vaccine manufacturers, initiated a vaccination program to mitigate the impact of the virus.

Vaccines Used

Several vaccines have been approved and used in Sri Lanka, including:

• Oxford–AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine
• Sinopharm BIBP COVID-19 vaccine
• Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine
• Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
• Moderna COVID-19 vaccine

Vaccination Rollout

The vaccination campaign in Sri Lanka began in January 2021. The initial phase prioritized frontline healthcare workers, the elderly, and individuals with comorbidities. The program later expanded to include the general population.

Phases of Vaccination

1. **Phase 1**: Healthcare workers and high-risk individuals. 2. **Phase 2**: Elderly population and individuals with underlying health conditions. 3. **Phase 3**: General adult population. 4. **Phase 4**: Adolescents and children, as per the latest guidelines.

Distribution and Administration

Vaccines are distributed through a network of hospitals, clinics, and temporary vaccination centers. The Ministry of Health oversees the logistics and administration of the vaccines, ensuring equitable distribution across the country.

Challenges

The vaccination campaign faced several challenges, including:

• Vaccine supply shortages
• Vaccine hesitancy among certain population groups
• Logistical issues in rural and remote areas

Impact

The vaccination campaign has significantly reduced the number of severe COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. It has also contributed to the gradual reopening of the economy and the resumption of normal activities.

Future Plans

Sri Lanka plans to continue its vaccination efforts, including booster doses and vaccinations for younger age groups, to maintain immunity levels and prevent future outbreaks.

Related Pages

• COVID-19 pandemic in Sri Lanka
• COVID-19 vaccination
• Oxford–AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine
• Sinopharm BIBP COVID-19 vaccine
• Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine
• Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
• Moderna COVID-19 vaccine
• Ministry of Health (Sri Lanka)