SIBU: The Health Ministry has so far collected 663 samples nationwide to determine if the Sinovac Covid-19 vaccine is suitable to be given to children aged between three and 11.

       According to Bernama, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the study, sponsored by Sinovac Life Sciences Company Limited, China, were being conducted at nine hospitals nationwide, including Sibu Hospital and Miri Hospital, and involved a total of 2,000 children.

       He said that of the 663 samples, 508 were from Sarawak, adding that the initial findings of the study could be obtained between six months and a year.

       “The study requires 2,000 samples. Malaysia needs to first carry out its own study although there are findings from similar studies in other countries.

       “We have to be very careful before approving the use of this vaccine on children aged three to 11 in this country,” he told reporters after observing the trials conducted at the Sibu Hospital Clinical Research Centre yesterday.

       He said the government had conducted similar studies before approving the use of vaccine for those aged 12 to 17.