Coronavirus: Cyprus exceeds EU average vax rate

Cyprus exceeded the EU average on vaccination with 36.5 per cent of the population having received the first dose so far, the health ministry said on Monday, as appointments will be made available for those aged 25 to 28 in the next two days.

In a written statement highlighting the benefits, the health ministry said a significant percentage of people have been vaccinated in the various districts, totalling to 36.5 per cent, a percentage higher than the EU average of 31.3 per cent.

The statement was part of the announcement for the opening of the vaccination portal for those aged 27 and 28 at 7.30am to 5.30pm on Tuesday, and for 25 and 26-year-olds during the same hours on Wednesday.

Paphos has the highest vaccination coverage with 40.1 per cent of residents having received a dose of the vaccine followed by Nicosia, with 37.1 per cent. Larnaca comes next with 35.6 per cent, Limassol with 34.6 while 33.1 per cent of residents in Famagusta initiated or finished their vaccination.

“The number of cases and hospital admissions has decreased significantly as a result of the vaccination coverage,” the announcement said.

It added that people with a history of vaccination usually experience mild symptoms are mild and do not need hospitalisation.

The health ministry reiterated the aim for the coverage of 65 per cent of the population at least with the first dose of the vaccine by the end of July.

Cyprus administers the Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Jansen vaccines, all approved by the European Medicines Agency.

Vaccination and observance of basic personal hygiene rules are key to limit the spread of the virus, the ministry added.