‘Sputnik Light’ vaccine available in Belarus

Healthcare Minister Dmitry Pinevich has informed that the Russian vaccine will be used for revaccination, as well as for vaccinating students and those who have already had COVID-19   

“A batch of 250,000 doses – exactly as much as we ordered – has arrived to the country and I’d wish to thank the Russian Government, the Ministry of Health and the Russian Direct Investment Fund. We were looking forward to receiving this vaccine. Definitely, we are entering a season of increased epidemic morbidity. Importantly, we’ve discussed the issues of immune-prophylaxis and worked out the immunisation tactics for the autumn period. Vaccinations against influenza and coronavirus will go simultaneously. The ‘Sputnik Light’ vaccine is intended (and confirmed by us) for revaccination, vaccination of those who have already had COVID-19 and young people under the age of 23. I guess our students will be able to get vaccinated with this vaccine: it is one-stage and effective.”

Mr. Pinevich added that the country offers different vaccines at present. “We are also developing our own inactivated vaccine. However, the latest data (including American ones) indicate that a vector vaccine boasts a more prolonged effect and is more effective. I hope the ‘Sputnik Light’ will soon be produced at Belmedpreparaty’s facilities, including as part of our co-operation with the Russian partners,” he noted.

According to the Healthcare Minister, the domestic market needs will be primarily met and export possibilities will be discussed later. “260,000 doses of the first component of the ‘Sputnik V’ vaccine are in circulation at the moment and these are constantly being replenished by warehouses. We’ll be able to discuss exports when the desired figures are achieved. Actually, this is not on the agenda for us at the moment.”