MUSCAT: Oman is gearing-up for mass vaccination drive in June as those over the age of 45 are now eligible to get COVID-19 vaccine.

According to sources, the Ministry of Health is opening new vaccination centres across the country to administer coronavirus vaccines to new target groups including those over the age of 45, pilgrims, citizens of Musandam Governorate, front liners including health workers and employees in government institutions, Royal Oman Police, Sultan’s Armed Forces, higher education institutions, educational staff, and Grade 12 students in schools. For this, the government is preparing various centres including the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) in Muscat and various sports complexes and schools.

Meanwhile, His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Al Saidi, Minister of Health said the Sultanate will receive one million doses of the Pfizer vaccine in June. “We will receive one million doses of the Pfizer vaccine next June, and about 100,000 doses from other companies,” Al Saidi added.

The Minister also teams will be formed to vaccinate all workers in government institutions, and to provide Covid-19 vaccines to the private sector “through clinics in large companies, and in private health, institutions licensed to administer the vaccine.”