Among others, Rwanda has recorded 490 new COVID-19 cases out of 12 737 sample tests, seven people including five men and two women succumbed to the virus while 25 are critically ill.

Rwanda is among African countries that have started administering vaccines since March this year starting with people whose line of duty puts them at risk of catching the virus.

On Monday 23rd August 2021, Rwanda started COVID-19 mass vaccination targeting all people aged 18 and above.

The mass vaccination campaign started with Kigali City expected to be extended countrywide later depending on available vaccine doses.

Rwanda plans to vaccinate 30 per cent of the population by the end of 2021 and continues efforts to acquire sufficient doses through direct purchases and other arrangements, to ensure as many Rwandans as possible are protected from COVID-19.

A t least 50% of Kigali City dwellers have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 while 80 percent received the first dose. Among others, the country targets to vaccinate 60% of the population by June next year.

Currently, Rwanda is administering different types of vaccines including AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer and Sinopharm.

Coronavirus symptoms include coughing, flu, and difficulty in breathing. The virus is said to be transmitted through the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.

Rwandans are urged to adhere to COVID-19 health guidelines, washing hands frequently using soaps and safe water, wearing face masks and respecting social distancing.