COVID-19 vaccines carry a certain amount of risk, says Nigerian Health Minister

Osagie Ehanire, minister of health, says COVID-19 vaccines carry a certain amount of risk.

Nigeria is expected to receive its first batch of allocated doses by the end of February.

On February 11, the World Health Organisation (WHO) released a document detailing the use and risks associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine.

According to the WHO, “people with a history of severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine should not take it,” and it is also not recommended for persons younger than 18 years “pending the results of further studies”.

At a briefing by the presidential task force (PTF) on Monday, Ehanire said arrangements have been made for effective distribution, and as such,  government won’t be responsible for the safety of vaccines given outside its framework.

“It is important to stress that all COVID-19 vaccines carry a certain amount of risk, and any vaccine not approved by the federal ministry of health through its agencies cannot be used in Nigeria,” he said.

– The Cable