By Eleanor Gee

Tonga hopes to achieve herd immunity for CoViD-19 by planning to vaccinate around 60-70% of the population by the end of the year, confirmed Ministry of Health CEO, Dr Siale ‘Akau’ola today.

COVAX, a facility that is distributing CoViD-19 vaccines, has put Tonga on the tentative list to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine, which was recently approved by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The exact amount of vaccine doses will be confirmed once Tonga submits its final National Deployment and Vaccination Plan (NDVP) to COVAX and AstraZeneca.

Tonga initially tried to obtain the Pfizer vaccine when it was first approved but due to the demand being higher than supply, Pfizer decided to prioritize countries where people were sick with CoViD-19. Tonga does not have CoViD-19. Pfizer was also concerned with monitoring the vaccines for research which does not stop when it is administered. In addition, Tonga also does not have ultra-cold storage for these vaccines. 

"Tonga will receive AstraZeneca vaccine as it is easier to store and use."

Dr 'Akau'ola said the plan is to initially vaccinate frontline workers, the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, with the remaining adult population to follow. The vaccine is mainly for people who are 18 years old and over. Children are a low priority as they are not as affected by the virus.

“We are aiming to build the country’s immunity to ensure that our people are protected especially the front liners, vulnerable people, and all people.”

Around 40 percent of Tonga’s population is under 18 years old, he said.

“If we vaccinate about 70 percent of the population, the country will be protected, however discussions are still ongoing.”

“There will be two doses – the first vaccine, and then after 6 or so weeks, the second dose will be administered.”

CoViD-19 Vaccine

Dr ‘Akua’ola said the AstraZeneca vaccine efficacy is high. The vaccine has gone through a vigorous screening process by WHO’s Special Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE).

Out of all the vaccines, only three - Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca - have been approved by the WHO after this vigorous assessment.

“This is something people should understand.”

However, the AstraZeneca vaccine is not the only one Tonga is looking at.

“Even though we will use the AstraZeneca vaccine, it won’t stop us using other vaccines. It’s not just AstraZeneca. It depends on the vaccine assessments and we need to listen to the World Health Organization group of experts.”

Tonga’s development partners will also provide assistance with vaccines.