Finland to Offer Free COVID-19 Vaccination in Early 2021

Finland’s health ministry announced on Thursday that the COVID-19 vaccination in the country will begin in early 2021 and that the vaccination will be absolutely free. “Finland’s goal is to protect the entire population with a licensed vaccine. Vaccines are offered free of charge to everyone who wishes. The ministry estimates that the first vaccines will be available in the country early next year. Vaccinations should be started as soon as possible,” the ministry said.

However, the final decision on vaccination can only be made after the vaccine is approved and becomes available. Vaccinations will be offered by priority: medical personnel, patients of hospitals and nursing homes, people of older age groups.

Finland participates in EU procurement, which guarantees the possibility of receiving the coronavirus vaccine from several different manufacturers. The EU Commission is currently negotiating a supply agreement for six different vaccines. Finland takes part in five of them, and the sixth agreement is being prepared for adoption, the ministry said.