RIYADH — There have been no deaths recorded in Saudi Arabia related to taking the COVID-19 vaccines, said the spokesman of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Mohammed Al-Abdali, while warning people from falling victims to rumors or rumor-mongering. The Health Ministry spokesman, at the press conference here on Sunday, stressed that there is a noticeable decrease in the curve of coronavirus cases in the Kingdom. But despite the downward graph of coronavirus, he stressed that people need to be vigilant and follow all registered health protocols, especially calling on all to get vaccinated. He confirmed that coronavirus vaccines are safe and effective while reemphasizing that it is safe for pregnant ladies. "It is safe at all stages of pregnancy, and getting infected with the virus is dangerous for pregnant women and may expose them to risks," Dr. Al-Abdali said. He pointed out that Health Ministry has not yet approved the Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccine in Saudi Arabia. The only approved vaccines are: Pfizer BioNTech, Oxford AstraZeneca, Moderna, and Johnson. Almost 30 million doses of coronavirus vaccines have been given in Saudi Arabia, Dr. Al-Abdali said, adding, "The experts around the world classify the current stage as a 'pandemic stage' for those who are not immunized with the vaccine." In the same press conference, spokesperson for public education Ibtisam Al-Shehri, stressed the importance of completing the twin doses of coronavirus vaccines for male and female students and education staff to return to schools. Al-Shehri said that the Ministry of Education has set out SR1 million for precautionary measures, while confirming that classes for intermediate and secondary school will resume for those students who receive two doses of coronavirus vaccine. Students in primary school and kindergarten and those with chronic diseases will continue to pursue education through remote learning via my school platform (Madrasati). Al-Shehri said that the rate of immunization of male and female students with a single dose is 45%, and the percentage of students receiving two doses of the coronavirus vaccine is 19%. At the press conference, the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing spokesman Saif Al-Suwailem confirmed the continued suspension of wedding halls due to the difficulty of controlling social distancing and the precautionary measures.
