Authorities "COVID-19 Vaccine, Priority for Vaccination Already Under Discussion" (Update)

Researchers are conducting vaccine development experiments at the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) in Gwanak-gu, Seoul. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heung-soon] The quarantine authorities announced that discussions have begun on who should be prioritized for vaccination as they consider the development of a novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) vaccine.

On the 1st, Kwon Jun-wook, Deputy Head of the Central Disease Control Headquarters (CDCH), said at a regular briefing, "At the CDCH level, we have already started concrete plans related to the priority and strategy of COVID-19 vaccination and are discussing them with experts."

Previously, our government decided to promote vaccine introduction through a two-track approach: securing a safety net for vaccine supply through the international organization 'COVAX,' an international project for joint procurement and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, and securing additional quantities through negotiations with individual vaccine manufacturers.

However, considering issues related to agreements on implementation with international organizations and various conditions under negotiation with individual companies, the authorities refrained from commenting on detailed matters such as budget allocation or supply quantity plans.

Deputy Head Kwon said, "It is highly likely that the vaccine will require two doses," adding, "Given our experience and results in faithfully expanding the national essential vaccination program, it will provide a good foundation for the COVID-19 vaccination campaign once it begins."

He emphasized, "While suppressing COVID-19, we envision securing the safest vaccine in the world to enhance the immunity of our people, and using the secured time to create and establish a new daily life, leading Korea to pioneer a new world after COVID-19. I am confident that this will happen."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.