The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has assured Nigerians that the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is safe.
Speaking during a three-day media dialogue organised by UNICEF in collaboration with the ministry of information, UNICEF Specialist, Communication for Development, C4D Mrs Elizabeth Onitolo, warned that everyone was at risk of contracting the virus as she dismissed rumours regarding the efficacy of vaccine.
The C4D specialist said there is no one with natural immunity to COVID-19, disclosing that government will get people to focus on the science that justified the use of the vaccine rather than create sensational politics.
She said “COVID-19 vaccine is safe; the vaccine has been certified safe by the World Health Organisation and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
“COVID-19 does not contain any micro-chips as it is being speculated in some section; there is need to continue to wear face mask even after vaccination”.
Earlier, the Director, planning research and statistic, Adamawa state ministry of health, Dr Stephen John also called on journalists to help address the rumours and myths around the COVID-19 vaccine through their reportage.
He said, “Contrary to allegations of blood clot that was mentioned about the AstraZeneca vaccine, a recent research that was carried out revealed that there was no link between the vaccine and blood clot.
“Where is this story coming from, don’t be surprise that there are other organisations from the back ground pushing this falsehood as part of their marketing strategy”.
“Every vaccine has its side effect. Even paracetamol, that we take everyday has its side effects. It can eat up your liver like acid once taken in excess. Penicillin also has it’s own side effects. Nigerians should disregard the rumour and go for the vaccine.”
