“All over the world, the vaccine is given to people over the age of 16, whereas in Lebanon, we will give it to people who have exceeded their 18 years because it is the legal age”, said the representative of the Ministry of Health for Medical Affairs, Mohammad Haidar, in a statement.

When asked about the reason behind vaccinating 80% instead of 100% of the Lebanese population, Haidar pointed out that “the 20% are for minors who have gained immunity due to their previous infection with the COVID-19, explaining that when vaccinating 80% of the population, we will have vaccinated 100% of people who may be affected by the infection”.

“Till present, the Ministry of Health did not declare the vaccine as mandatory, and we do not force anyone to get it. However, international claims say that no one can travel without a passport note indicating that he has received the vaccine. International Laws may impose the vaccine for any operation, but according to the Ministry of Health, we still consider it optional, and we are going to prove it safe in order to encourage people get vaccinated”, added Haidar.

“With Pfizer, transporting vaccines to remote regions is a difficult task. There must be a center and a specialized medical team. However, with the AstraZeneca vaccine, it will get easier in all Lebanese regions and through large teams”, Haidar said.