Although nearly a third of Greeks aren't convinced a fast-tracked COVID-19 vaccine is safe or effective and won't take it, the New Democracy government plans to build 1,108 centers around the country offering the injection. Ahead of the opening, with the vaccine expected to arrive before year's end, a public awareness campaign will be conducted to try to persuade people to get the shot, many wary despite the fear of the Coronavirus. While people have to pay for COVID-19 tests at private clinics, government spokesman Stelios Petsas told reporters that, “Vaccinations will be free and voluntary,” with no report of the cost to the state. “There will be a campaign to convince our fellow citizens of their safety and effectiveness,” Petsas said of the vaccine although there are a few anti-vaccination groups in the country and he said the vaccines won't be mandatory or a condition of being able to work or travel when a second lockdown ends. Petsas said that work has already started on 1,018 centers that will be created across the country to deliver the vaccination once it is approved by European Union health authorities.  He added the government hopes to be in a position to deliver 2 million vaccinations in the first month it becomes available and between 1-2 million every month after, depending on availability. Health workers and people who are especially at risk of complications from COVID-19 will have priority when the vaccinations start arriving, that sector including the elderly and those with underlying or multiple conditions. Read more at thenationalherald.com RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report Photo Source: pixabay.com Let's block ads! (Why?)