BEIJING – China will provide COVID-19 vaccines free of charge once they become available to the general public, government authorities said on Saturday.
National Health Commission official Zheng Zhongwei said while manufacturing and transport of vaccines have costs, the government can provide vaccines for free to individuals.
China in late December approved its first vaccine for general public use. Three vaccines had already been given to limited groups at high risk of infection, including medical workers, through an emergency-use program.
The country widened the inoculation scheme in mid-December to more key groups such as employees in the food and public transport sectors, in an effort to stem a resurgence in the winter and spring. (Reuters)
