MINSK, 7 May (BelTA) – Our elders need to take the COVID-19 vaccine, Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko said as he spoke to the media on 7 May, BelTA has learned.
“We have to keep our elderly safe. I want them to understand this. They have always listened to me and heard me. I am just asking to do this. It is much less dangerous [vaccination], a hundred times less dangerous than contracting the virus,” the president said.
He said that the Russian vaccine had already proved effective in Russia. “The elderly need to visit a clinic or call a doctor. We will give you the first shot, you stay at home. We will give you the second shot, and you will be safe. At least you will calm your thoughts, you will not worry and will not be afraid of other people,” said the head of state.
Aleksandr Lukashenko reiterated the need to lead a healthy lifestyle and look after yourself in order to reduce the possible severe consequences of infection, as well as not to panic. “It all depends on our mode of life,” he said.
According to him, vaccination is underway in the country: “If you want, you are welcome to get the vaccine. Those who come into contact with a large number of people as part of their profession were vaccinated first in Belarus.
Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed that there had been no lockdowns in Belarus and people were not taking to streets protesting against strict anti-COVID measures. “We keep treating our people in a calm mode,” he said.
