King and Queen receive first dose of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine [1]
Saturday, May 15, 2021 - 19:10. Updated on Saturday, May 15, 2021 - 19:15.
King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u received their first dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine this morning, Saturday 15 May 2021, at Vaiola Hospital, in Tongatapu.
Sister Afu Tei administered the innoculations, with the Ministry of Health's vaccination team led by the Minister for Health, Hon. Dr ‘Amelia Afuha’amango Tu’ipulotu, Acting CEO for Health Dr Reynold ‘Ofanoa, Royal Physician Dr Sione Latu, supporting physicians and nurses.
The Minister for Health said it was another milestone in the Government’s national vaccination rollout.
“King Tupou VI and His Royal Household are now protected from COVID-19 after receiving their first dose. Their actions today are humbling to myself and all of Tonga, as they continue to lead with exemplary character,” she said.
The King and Queen have recently returned to Tongatapu after staying at their residence on 'Eua.
The staff of the Royal Palace Office received their vaccinations earlier in the month, together with staff of other key government ministries.
The Ministry of Health is continuing the COVID-19 vaccination rollout to communities in Tongatapu.
In Tonga by mid-week over 20,103 people had been vaccinated, including 19,259 Tongan nationals and 844 foreign nationals. On average, 914 people are being vaccinated daily, the Ministry of Health reported.