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How Rwanda is preparing for COVID-19 vaccine delivery
A recent spike in COVID-19 cases and deaths saw the government of Rwanda place Kigali City under a total lockdown. Now in efforts to save lives from the rampant virus, the country has acquired a new drug to treat patients in severe conditions. But how far are we from a vaccine? Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, DG at Rwanda Biomedical Center joins CNBC Africa for more.
Thu, 21 Jan 2021 10:53:49 GMT
Disclaimer: The following content is generated automatically by a GPT AI and may not be accurate. To verify the details, please watch the video
AI Generated Summary
- The importance of lockdown measures in containing the spread of COVID-19 and preventing healthcare system overload
- The acquisition of the drug Peramivir for treating severe COVID-19 cases and the significance of early intervention in its administration
- Rwanda's comprehensive vaccination strategy, including prioritization of high-risk groups, extensive logistical planning, and flexibility in vaccine selection to ensure widespread coverage
Rwanda, like many countries worldwide, has been grappling with the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent surge in cases and fatalities prompted the government to impose a total lockdown in Kigali City. The stringent measures were implemented to curb the spread of the virus and prevent further loss of lives. Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, the Director General at the Rwanda Biomedical Center, shed light on the country's efforts to combat the virus and prepare for the rollout of vaccines. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Rwanda has taken proactive steps to mitigate its impact.The lockdown in Kigali was a necessary step to contain the virus and prevent overwhelming the healthcare system. Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized the importance of implementing stringent measures to avoid catastrophic consequences. He highlighted the potential for exponential growth in infections and deaths if the lockdown had not been enforced. By taking decisive action, Rwanda aims to protect its population and prevent healthcare facilities from being overwhelmed. The acquisition of a new drug to treat COVID-19 patients in severe condition demonstrates Rwanda's commitment to enhancing its healthcare response. The drug, Peramivir, has a history of successful use in influenza treatment and has shown promising results in limiting viral replication in COVID-19 patients. Through collaboration with a clinical advisory group, Rwanda has identified potential candidates for the drug and aims to administer it in moderate to mild cases to prevent disease progression. Dr. Nsanzimana reiterated the importance of early intervention to maximize the drug's efficacy and save lives. The imminent arrival of vaccines in Rwanda heralds a new phase in the country's fight against COVID-19. Dr. Nsanzimana outlined Rwanda's vaccination strategy, which prioritizes high-risk groups and aims to inoculate 60% of the population in phased rollouts. The country has developed robust warehouse and supply chain systems to ensure the efficient distribution of vaccines once they arrive. Rwanda's vaccination program has the capacity to administer seven million doses in a week, underscoring the nation's preparedness to rapidly immunize its populace. The government has secured a variety of vaccines, including those with WHO emergency approval, to cater to the diverse needs of the population. Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized the importance of flexibility in vaccine selection while adhering to scientific standards to safeguard public health. Rwanda's timeline for vaccination is ambitious, aiming to inoculate the majority of its population within two years. However, the country stands ready to expedite the process and achieve widespread coverage in a timely manner. The logistical challenge of storing vaccines at ultra-low temperatures, such as the Pfizer vaccine, has been addressed through the procurement of specialized freezers capable of maintaining the required conditions. Rwanda's healthcare infrastructure is well-equipped to handle the storage and distribution of a range of vaccines, ensuring that the immunization campaign proceeds smoothly. As the nation braces for the next phase of its COVID-19 response, Rwanda's proactive approach and comprehensive preparedness underscore its commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its citizens.
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