STATEMENT ON IMMUNIZATION AGAINST COVID-19

In view of the fact that the spread of the pandemic and mortality rates caused by COVID-19 have dramatically increased, in the last several weeks in the Republic of Serbia, the SASA Commission for monitoring and response to COVID-19 virus – consisting of Academician Nebojša Lalić (president of the Commission), Academician Miodrag Čolić and SASA Corresponding Member Goran Stanković, have called citizens to get vaccinated and adhere to all preventive measures.

At the moment, Serbia has more than 6.000 newly infected and 50 deceased citizens daily. In addition to this, the entire medical staff has been exhausted and overworked, with almost all hospital capacities allocated to COVID-patients being full. Therefore, we implore citizens to get immunized against the COVID-19 virus as soon as possible, to wear masks indoors, whether it is public transport, schools or other institutions, and to comply with other preventive hygiene measures. SASA has repeatedly underlined the key importance of immunization in the fight against the COVID-19 through media, symposiums and statements on its website.

As an example of good practice, if necessary, we can provide the information that 80% of SASA members have been thus far vaccinated, most of whom have received third booster shot (mostly those with certain comorbidities have not been vaccinated), while among the employed and associated institutes the percentage averages around 70%. On account of this, along with strict adherence to other epidemiological measures, over 30 various events including scientific conferences, forums, lectures, concerts and exhibitions have been organized at the SASA since September.

By placing more trust in science and questioning decisions based on half-information and along with a more pronounced sense of collective responsibility and conscience, we are certain that, as a society, we would be able to break out of the COVID-19 vicious circle.

 

SASA Commission for monitoring and response to COVID-19 virus