Havana, September 30 (RHC)-- The effort and perseverance to protect the Cuban population from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic through immunization were already evident since the beginning of the different clinical trials, by the hand of institutions of high scientific prestige such as the Finlay Institute of Vaccines and the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB).

However since last May 10th, when the health intervention began with Cuban vaccine candidates until today and with a massive vaccination going on to inmunize our people, the results of this feat are constantly increasing.

By the end of September 28, 2021, the 82.8% of Cuba's total population had already received at least the first dose of anticovid-19 vaccine; while 46.4% of the country population has already completed its immunization scheme. This figure includes convalescents who have received a single dose of Sovereign Plus. More than 20 million doses have been administered throughout the country.

Cuba is not only the first country in Latin American with the highest percentage of its population vaccinated with at least one dose, but it is also a pioneer in the world with an anti-viral immunization campaign in pediatric ages with its own vaccines. In just 20 days, more than 1.6 million children between 2 and 18 years old have already started their vaccination schedule.

Protecting convalescent children is also a priority. The Center for State Control of Medicines, Equipment and Medical Devices (Cecmed) approved the beginning of the clinical trial of the Cuban Soberana Plus vaccine for convalescent children, a study that will include 530 minors in Havana and Cienfuegos.

The Ismaelillo pediatric clinical trial with the Abdala vaccine, carried out in the province of Camagüey, has already concluded, and it is expected that it will soon be authorized for use in emergencies to be supplied to this population. Then, Cuba will be able to have two vaccines for its child population.

In Cienfuegos, the Soberana Centro clinical trial is also underway, with the Soberana 01 vaccine candidate, which is already beginning to yield excellent results.

Our commitment is that the entire Cuban population will be immunized by the end of this year. The entire health and science system has taken on this challenge with commitment and dedication. (Cubadebate)