By Eleanor Gee and Linny Folau.

Hundreds of people in Tongatapu received their first COVID-19 AstraZeneca vaccinations today, April 19.

The Ministry of Health confirmed a total of 1,536 people were vaccinated last week from April 15-17, mostly frontliners.

Today the public could have their vaccinations at halls in Puke, ‘Isileli/Sopu, Tufuenga, Hala-’o-vave and Longolongo, opened from 8:00am to 6:00pm.

Vaccination will continue tomorrow, April 20, at Hofoa, Halaano, Tufuenga, Loto Kolomotu’a, Tu’atakilangi, Kapeta and Vaololoa.

On April 21 the vaccinators will be in the Kolofo’ou district of Nuku'alofa.

The Ministry of Health is prioritizing those aged 45 years and above as well as those aged 18 years and over who have non-communicable diseases and / or who are living with disabilities. People can register online or at the venues and must show identification before being vaccinated.

Turnout

Meanwhile, at the hall in Hala-'o-vave an elderly recipient, 75-year-old, Tevita Kata Nau, was happy to get his vaccination.

He told Matangi Tonga, he was unsure at first but his children encouraged him to get protected from the virus.

“I am happy I got it, it did not hurt and the injection was fast."

He encouraged those who are still unsure about this vaccine.

"We in Tonga are very lucky that we have access to this COVID-19 vaccine, as some other countries are still struggling to secure theirs for their people. Don't believe the wrong advice that you hear on the side."

“I got it and am still sitting here. I tell you if ever a time this virus comes to Tonga I am happy because I am protected, he said.

“Come and get vaccinated because you would regret it when this protection vaccine runs out and you loose your chance.”

Also getting his vaccination at the same venue, was Sean Campbell of the Australian Federal Police based in Nuku’alofa.

“My decision to get vaccinated is simply based on scientific evidence,” he said.

Others also expressed their satisfaction with the vaccination process as they feel secure and safe because they trust Tonga's Ministry of Health.