Slovaks can now register for Sputnik V vaccine

Slovakia has officially opened registration for the Russian Sputnik V vaccine on Tuesday, with the registration website allowing for people to tick a box to confirm their interest in receiving the Russian jab.

The website also clearly states that the vaccine has not yet been cleared by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Those wishing to be vaccinated can either choose between the EMA-cleared vaccines, the non-EMA-approved Sputnik, or both, to confirm their interest in receiving any vaccine available.

The Russian jab is only accessible to those aged 18-60, with the first shots to be administered from Monday. 

Slovak Health Minister Vladimír Lengvarský said he expects about 80,000 takers, warning that their summer travel plans may “get complicated”.

Former prime minister and current Finance Minister Igor Matovič, who stepped down amid a governmental crisis fueled in part by his decision to purchase 2 million doses of the Russian vaccine, also cited travel concerns when admitting he would not be getting the vaccine himself. (Barbara Zmušková | EURACTIV.sk)