Before any Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine would be administered in Nigeria, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) will first certify it safe for human use.
The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) made this known on Monday, while stressing that pregnant and lactating mothers cannot receive COVID-19 vaccine.
According to the NPHCDA, studies are yet to be conducted to ascertain the safety of the vaccine on pregnant and lactating mothers.
The agency also stated that COVID-19 vaccine does not contain any harmful substance or micro-chip.
“All vaccines including COVID-19 vaccines are manufactured under strict compliance with WHO guidelines.
“Also, before the vaccine is administered in Nigeria, NAFDAC will certify it safe for human use.
“COVID-19 vaccination is especially important for people with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, cancer, etc. People with these conditions are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19.
“The vaccine does not cause the disease but helps the body to develop immunity against the disease.
“Mild side effects may occur as in any other vaccinations. However, they are signs that the vaccine is working to build your immunity. This does not mean you have COVID-19. If they do not go away in a few days, please see your doctor.
“Before a vaccine is certified for use, it must receive approval from WHO. Here in Nigeria, in addition to WHO approval, all vaccines including COVID-19 vaccine are certified safe for use by NAFDAC.
“Even when in use, NAFDAC continues to monitor to ensure it causes no harm,” NPHCDA stated.
TNG reports Nigeria plans to introduce the COVID-19 vaccine in the 1st Quarter of 2021 to halt the ongoing spread of the virus and to save lives.
Once the vaccine is available, there will be public announcements on when and where to get the vaccine, according to the NPHCDA.