No issue in allowing private sector to import COVID vaccines: PHIs

• But must be properly monitored by the NMRA

By Sheain Fernandopulle

The private sector should also be granted permission to import COVID-19 vaccine vials, if the Government is unable to procure the required number of vaccines, the Public Health Inspectors’ (PHIs) Union head said yesterday.   

He told the media that no problem would arise if the private sector was properly monitored by the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA), when importing the vaccines.  

“There was a notable rise in COVID cases from factories and other institutions. Thus, the next priority group should be the working force. If the Government finds it difficult to provide sufficient vaccines and fulfil the requirement, it has to look for such alternatives,” the PHI Union head added.  However, he said the NMRA, should grant due approval to the private sector before they could be engaged.   

“This will pave the way for a higher vaccination coverage in the country,” he added.