COVID-19 : Second AstraZeneca consignment from Japan arrives

COLOMBO (News 1st); The second consignment of 727,380 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines manufactured in Japan arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport on Saturday (07) evening.

With this delivery, the total quantity of AstraZeneca vaccines donated from Japan to Sri Lanka has reached 1,455,840 doses, said the Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka.

The Government of Japan highly commends the efficient roll-out of vaccines by the Government of Sri Lanka and welcomes the prompt inoculation of the first batch of 728,460 doses, which arrived on 31 July, to the people, including those who have been long waiting for the second dose of AstraZeneca vaccines.

Japan believes this second batch delivered will further accelerate the vaccination programme in Sri Lanka, said the Embassy.

Japan would like to thank WHO and UNICEF for their efficient work in making this delivery possible through the COVAX Facility.

The Government of Japan will remain committed to fighting against COVID-19 with the Government and people of Sri Lanka, a statement added.