At least 8,200 health workers have been vaccinated against COVID-19 in Afghanistan over the last one week, officials said on Sunday, adding that the vaccination is provided in over 600 health centers across the country.

“We ask every vaccinated person to visit our center after 28 days,” said Khatira Qaderi, a health worker. 

Doctors said the vaccine boosts body immunity and will be followed by some pain after it is administered.

“Any antigen that enters the body has some side effects that can range from a mild fever to pain in the infected area,” Dr. Abdul Jalil Rasuli said.

“I encourage all women, especially those who are serving on the frontlines and are in health centers,” said Fakhria Yunis, a doctor.

Afghanistan has received 5,000 doses of COVID-19 from India. Of this, 240,000 doses will be provided to military hospitals for security forces.

China has pledged to provide 400,000 doses of COVID vaccine to Afghanistan, said the Ministry of Public Health, adding that the pledge was announced at a meeting between Chinese ambassador Wang Yu and acting public health minister Waheed Majroh.

“A link has been posted on the ministry’s Facebook through which they can register and be vaccinated,” Public Health Ministry spokesperson Masooma Jafari said.

Media workers will be vaccinated after health workers, according to officials.