Romania faces COVID-19 issues amid vaccine procurement scandals; Lithuania offers free vaccination to all.
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Romania faced a scandal involving excessive vaccine orders during the pandemic, leading to legal proceedings against former ministers. A doctor stated that while the illness is easier to manage now, it remains dangerous for certain groups, especially those with chronic conditions, and Romanian residents wishing to be vaccinated must travel abroad, which is often financially prohibitive for at-risk individuals. The US FDA recommends COVID-19 vaccination for those over 65 and those with chronic illnesses. Data from the Romanian National Institute of Public Health showed a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases during the summer, with significant rises in July and August, resulting in 19 deaths over two months. Doctors list common symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and body aches. Romania was among the most affected EU countries during the pandemic, with over 60,000 cases reported. Romania has been in legal disputes with Pfizer and BioNTech regarding vaccine payments, following a decision by a former health minister to cease payments for doses ordered under an EU contract in 2021. In contrast, Lithuania offers COVID-19 vaccination to all residents aged six months and older, with recommendations for risk groups, and the vaccination is free for those covered by mandatory health insurance. Austria also allows residents to get vaccinated at various centers or with their family doctor, and the vaccine is free with health insurance.
