New vaccination campaign for older people in China gave hope for the end of strict control over it COVID-19, after recent protests.

The low level of vaccination in the country is the main reason why the restrictive measures are still in place, but it is not yet known how long this vaccination campaign will last.

China’s National Health Commission said the planned campaign will encourage people over the age of 60 to get vaccinated as many avoided vaccination because the risk of infection was low in the past.

The commission said it would send mobile units home to encourage people in their 70s and 80s to get vaccinated.

It is noted that 9 out of 10 Chinese have been vaccinated, but only 66% of people over 80 received a dose, and 40% received a booster, according to the Commission. In addition, 86% of people over 60 have been vaccinated.

Health experts, however, say the vaccination campaign will take months, and what’s important is building a long-term strategy for the virus. They even claim that the zero covid policy is likely to last until mid-2023. for now and until 2024.

“Now China is not in a position to abandon its “zero Covid” policy and adopt a policy in which citizens learn to live with the virus,” he said. March WilliamsChief Economist for Asia at Capital Economics.

However, the ruling party promised toNo eased restrictions and eased some controls this week, especially after protests in Shanghai, Beijing and at least six other major cities.

In any case, party leaders have said they are sticking to their “zero Covid” policy and say they don’t know when this might end.

^{According to the AP}