St. Kitts and Nevis is finalizing the rollout of its mass COVID-19 vaccination programme, now that it has received its first batch of vaccines and is expecting more than 21,000 more doses by month-end, a statement from the government said.
It is anticipated that frontline workers will be vaccinated first, followed by vulnerable persons – those suffering from multiple morbidities and other chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
The twin-island federation received its first 2,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines last week, and by the end of this month, it is expected to receive an additional 21,600 doses as a result of its participation in the COVID-19 Global Access (COVAX) Facility.
Additionally, Taiwan has pledged $600,000 to assist in procuring extra vaccines, while the government of India and other allies have expressed their willingness to donate vaccines.
“These additional donations from multiple sources will enhance our ability to roll out our mass vaccination programme,” said Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris.
“Our health professionals have worked to establish a vaccination plan to immunize not only our frontline and essential workers but every citizen and resident in due course.”
The government statement said recommendations from international health institutions, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), were taken into consideration for the vaccination plan.
Over the past several weeks, health professionals here have been assuring citizens and residents that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe to take.
That was reiterated by Prime Minister Harris in an address to the nation over the weekend.
“I encourage all to think seriously about their health and the important contribution vaccines can play in preserving our health and wellness,” he said.
He said it is the intention of his government to have at least 70 percent of the population vaccinated to achieve herd immunity.
CMC
