More than 82,000 people, about one percent of the total population of Shenyang, the capital city of northeastern China's Liaoning Province, have been vaccinated to minimize the risk of COVID-19 infections.

The city's health commission said the first batch of recipients belongs to high-risk groups. CGTN visited a community health service center in Shenyang's Sujiatun District. The center has been inoculating high-risk residents, including police personnel, health workers, and bus drivers, since December 27.

As of January 14, the center had vaccinated about 1,300 people between 19 and 59 years old. For many, this is not only a life-saving shot but also a morale booster.

"Getting vaccinated put off my worries and gave me some protection against the virus. I have faith in our country's science and technology, and also its research results," said Zhao Yongkai, who works at the Minzhu sub-district office in Sujiatun.

However, the vaccine may not be suitable for specific groups such as fever patients, pregnant women, and those having a history of allergies. 

"My wife is a bus conductor and suffers from hypertension, so she couldn't take the shot," said 46-year-old Wei Haitao. "I'm a bus driver, and I ferry many passengers every day, so I was concerned, but then came the vaccination. Now I can work with my mind at ease."

Yet even for those who already took COVID-19 vaccinations, health experts warn that the shots are not a cure that will protect the recipients 100 percent.

"Getting vaccinated doesn't grant people total immunity because it's only a preventive measure. Recipients still need to wear masks, wash their hands regularly, and prevent large gatherings," said Huang Xiaolin, director of the Minzhu community health service center.

After taking the first shot, recipients must remain in the medical center for a 30-minute observation period. Personal hygiene, proper rest and diet are also advised before the second shot.

As Shenyang gradually builds an anti-coronavirus shield, health authorities said they hope their latest move will be the first step towards a city-wide immunization in the future.