Ministers urge regular viral testing and hope to obtain an 80 percent immunisation rate by the end of the year

Brunei may be able to reach 80% of the population fully inoculated against Covid-19 by the end of November or early December if vaccine uptake continues steady, according to Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar.

"We initially planned to reach 70% of the people being fully vaccinated by the third or fourth week of November," the minister stated.

"After that, we announced the Transition Phase, which begins on Friday" (Nov 19).
Since then, we've observed an increase in the number of persons seeking inoculation while also securing a spot for their second dose."

He thanked the people for their cooperation and assistance in aiding the government's initiative to protect the public from the coronavirus.

"The Sultanate has already achieved a vaccination rate of 70%."
We may reach a 73 percent immunisation rate by Friday if additional unvaccinated people come forward and get their vaccine."

Meanwhile, it was declared that only individuals who are properly vaccinated will be able to work in the private sector.

However, people operating in fields that do not require frequent contact with clients, such as those working overseas, would be given special attention, according to Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Mohd Amin Liew.

"Those working offshore will be given special attention," the minister said, "depending on whether they have got their first dose and are currently awaiting their second dose."

When asked if it is mandatory for the private sector to conduct employee testing in accordance with the recommendations provided as part of the Transition Phase, the minister stated that enterprises are urged to do so for the safety of their employees and the nation as a whole.

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