Illustrative image (Photo: AFP) Phnom Penh (VNA) – Cambodia began a COVID-19vaccination drive targeting children aged 12-17 in its capital Phnom Penh and threeprovinces of Kandal, Koh Kong and Preah Sihanouk on August 1.
Prime Minister Hun Sen said vaccination for children is a key stepto herd immunity in communities. At least 2 million children in Cambodiaare expected to be vaccinated in the campaign, he said, adding that the countryis mulling inoculating children aged 10-11.
He said the authorities will also soon beginadministering booster shots to adults who are fully vaccinated.
The same day, the PM announced that theGovernment has decided to give the third shot of AstraZeneca vaccine to thosewho previously received two shots of China’s Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccines.
He added that about 500,000 – 1 millionfrontline workers, especially those in areas bordering Thailand, will be givenpriority for the third shot.
As of July 31, over 7.3 million adults in Cambodia received atleast one shot while over 4.7 million obtained two shots.
Its Health Ministry reported on August 1 that additional 23deaths and 671 new cases were recorded in the past 24 hours, including 265imported and 406 community cases. The figure brought the total caseload to77,914, of whom 70,754 recovered and 1,420 died./.
