Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Swann welcomes positive trials but still urges caution
HEALTH Minister Robin
Swann has welcomed Pfizer and Biontech’s announcement on a coronavirus vaccine.
But he cautioned the public not to “let down their guard”.
The Pfizer and Biontech vaccine, which is said to be more than 90% effective in preventing infection, is one of a number in development.
Mr Swann stated: “We have been waiting a long time for positive news. While there are very important regulatory and safety assurance hurdles to still be cleared, today is a step forward.
“While there are no guarantees, there is a possibility vaccination of at risk sections of our community could begin by the end of this year.
“I appeal to everyone not to let down their guard just because there is some light at the end of this long tunnel. It will likely be well into 2021 before a vaccine is generally available – not least because mass global vaccination is a huge logistical challenge.
“As I have said before, we are in for a hard slog this winter – in terms of intense pressures on our health service and unavoidable restrictions on our daily lives.
“We have to redouble our efforts – continue limiting our contacts and keeping our distance from each other; wear face coverings and keep washing our hands.
“But let’s be positive about the future. The incredible progress to date on developing a vaccine - together with planned mass testing and improved treatments - means we can look to spring with hope.
“Pessimists keep telling us we will be locked into endless stop-start cycles of restrictions. I have faith that they will be proved wrong.”
The UK’S Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, an independent expert advisory group, will advise Government on which Covid-19 vaccine(s) should be used, and on the priority groups to receive the vaccine.
South Belfast MLA Paula Bradshaw said it is “welcome we now have confirmation the trials have shown this vaccine provides not only protection from the virus, but it is otherwise entirely safe”.
The Alliance health spokeswoman added: “The challenge now is to work out exactly what kind and length of immunity this vaccine will offer, and how the logistics of meeting the orders requires will be handled.
“It should be emphasised the whole process, including distribution, will take many months.
“For now we await the outcome of further safety tests and the detail of the protection offered. I note 30 million doses have been ordered by the Government, and we now require a fournation agreement on how to take forward the logistics and ensure the most vulnerable are protected.”
I appeal to everyone not to let your guard down HEALTH MINISTER ROBIN SWANN YESTERDAY