A medical worker shows the COVID-19 vaccine. [Photo/Shanxi Daily]

North China's Shanxi province has given more than 250,000 vaccinations since it began its COVID-19 immunization campaign targeting high-risk groups on Jan 1.

People aged 18 to 59 working in 10 fields, such as cold chain logistics, transportation, customs and healthcare, as well as those who will work or study overseas, have been prioritized to receive free vaccination. The vaccine's effectiveness rate has exceeded 79 percent.

A medical worker gives a shot of vaccine in Shanxi. [Photo/Shanxi Daily]

Guang Ming, deputy director of the Immunization Planning Section of the Shanxi Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said that before Feb 5, the inoculation of key populations in the province would be completed. Afterward, the center will make preparations to respond to the vaccination needs of the general public.

The province has currently designated more than 200 outpatient clinics to undertake emergency vaccination work and will continue to increase vaccination sites as needed in the future.

Experts remind the public that even after vaccination, protective measures such as wearing masks and keeping social distance are still required to ensure personal safety.