India has authorized two Covid-19 vaccines for emergency use and is ready to send them to other countries, said Dr Khin Khin Gyi, director of the Central Epidemiology Unit at the Ministry of Health and Sports. 

“India approved two Covid-19 vaccines for emergency use on January 3. One is the vaccine developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca and Serum Institute of India will produce that vaccine named Covishield by holding the copyright. Another is the vaccine named Covaxin locally developed by Bharat Biotech. India is well on track to transport those vaccines to other countries, BBC reported. Moreover, it is likely to send vaccines to some neighbouring and ASEAN countries in coming weeks. Some countries will receive some vaccines as a gift in the initial stage and can buy at the same price,” Dr Khin Khin Gyi said. 

State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi said Myanmar had inked a vaccine procurement agreement with India and if the vaccine arrives, vaccination would prioritize health workers. She disclosed the information during her New Year message. 

“I think what the people wish to know most of all at this time is regarding the vaccination programme for COVID-19 and when this programme would start. The purchase contract for buying the first batch of the vaccines from India has already been signed. As soon as the authorities concerned in India have issued permission to use this vaccine, we have made arrangements for the import of these vaccines into Myanmar. In accordance with this programme, we will be vaccinating the first priority group, which comprises medical professionals and medical personnel in February. There is a lot of competition as all the countries of the world are trying to get this vaccine. However, we believe that the vaccination programme could be carried out all over the country step by step. During the period when the vaccines are still not available, I wish to appeal to the people to abide by the health rules and regulations and give support to our efforts to beat COVID-19,” she said.