TOKYO: The Japanese government will make the novel coronavirus vaccine of US biotechnology company Moderna Inc. available for inoculations at large venues, regulatory reform minister KONO Taro said Thursday.

“We’ll supply the Moderna vaccine through a different channel” for inoculations at large venues prepared by local governments, Kono, in charge of Japan’s COVID-19 vaccination program, said on television.

The Moderna vaccine will also be used at a large-scale vaccination venue to be established by the Self-Defense Forces in Tokyo on May 24, Kono said.

At present, US drugmaker Pfizer Inc.’s vaccine is the only one Japan uses in its vaccination program. The Moderna vaccine is being screened for use in Japan, with approval likely to be given within May.

Both vaccines require two doses but at different intervals. In addition, the two products must be stored at different temperatures.

To avoid confusion, the central government plans to clearly separate the venues and distribution channels for the two vaccines.

Kono said the government intends to pay money to doctors who will cooperate with the vaccination program so that there will be enough medical workers who administer the vaccines.

Meanwhile, he sounded negative about a proposal by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party to offer vaccinations around the clock.

 Japan is lagging far behind other advanced economies in coronavirus vaccinations. Its program currently covers medical workers and elderly people.

JIJI Press