Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s recent reaffirmation that Bangladesh is committed to procuring vaccines, “no matter how much money is required,” so that its citizens can remain protected against the coronavirus is encouraging and showcases the fact that, for the current administration, the health of the public is of the utmost importance.
The second wave of Covid-19 in the country has been particularly devastating, and with neighbouring India going through an even more difficult period, it appeared that Bangladesh would face a shortage of vaccines as a result of India’s decision to stop exports, forcing us to stop administering the first dose.
As such, the PM’s words are welcome, and reassure us that the government will not be sitting idle and will remain pro-active in its pursuit of securing vaccines from other sources.
There is no denying the fact that vaccines save lives; one recent independent study in the country has shown that antibodies had developed in over 98% of the recipients after they had taken the first dose of the two-dose AstraZeneca vaccine.
However, it must be remembered that vaccination is not a one-stop solution for the coronavirus; we must continue to take precautions where necessary and follow government health directives with the utmost seriousness, avoiding crowds, wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and keeping hygiene a priority no matter.
However, vaccination remains one of the key components in our battle against the pandemic and, to that end, we hope that the PM’s words are heeded and reflected in the actions of public officials across all institutions.
We must leave no stone unturned to ensure that Bangladeshis receive the protection against the virus they deserve.
