Over half of eligible population fully vaccinated for COVID-19 [1]
Monday, November 15, 2021 - 18:26. Updated on Monday, November 15, 2021 - 18:37.
Around 57% of Tonga’s eligible population is now fully vaccinated for COVID-19, while nearly 94% of those eligible have received their first dose, the Ministry of Health reported today.
Eligible population
The eligible population (76,911) includes 63,128 aged 18 years and over, and 13,783 aged 12-17-years.
The first doses of Pfizer vaccine were offered to teenagers starting 21 October, and with a high uptake in the age group 12 to 17-years-old. By today 12,709 out of the target 13,783 had received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. They have yet to have their second doses.
For those aged 18 and over, around 59,299 (94% of eligible) have received their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Second doses have been received by 43,820 (69% of eligible).
Total population
Meanwhile, Tonga aims to fully vaccinate 70% (74,147) out of the total population of 105,924 by the end of the year.
Once the 70% target is reached, the government has said it plans to start repatriation flights from countries that have COVID-19 community transmission.
At least 28 percent of Tonga’s population is not yet eligible for the vaccines, including infants and under 12-year-olds.