In Spain, more than 26 million people or 55% of the population, are now fully vaccinated against COVID-19, positioning the country ahead of some of the world’s leading economies such as the US, Germany and France.

“I will give you a fact that defines Spain: a country that is first in vaccination and leads the economic growth forecast,” Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez told a press conference Wednesday as he presented a political and financial review of the country. Read more.

“We are on the verge of overcoming a cycle in our history that has marked our lives forever. The pandemic has seriously damaged how we all live,” the prime minister said.

“Now, we have the opportunity to gain from our efforts and begin the stage of recovery at all levels,” he added.

Sanchez insisted Spain would reach its goal of vaccinating 70% of its population by the end of the summer.

“When I said that 70% of the population would be fully vaccinated by the end of the summer, many people criticised the government. Today we can affirm that we are going to achieve it and we will have the herd immunity set by the experts,” he added.

But Sanchez acknowledged that because of the Delta variant, a higher rate of vaccination could be necessary to achieve herd immunity.

The prime minister also said that the country’s vaccination campaign was also so successful due to the commitments of Spaniards and health professionals, as well as collaboration within parliament.

“If we are leading in vaccination and in the economic transformation, it shows that our state, in the face of an unparalleled test like the pandemic, is getting it right,” he said.

The coronavirus incidence rate in Spain has fallen for the first time in a month as the country experiences a fifth wave of infections, mounting pressure on hospitals and primary health care centres. (EFE)

Source: Euractiv.com