Several hundred persons in Anguilla have so far been vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus at the Princess Alexandra Hospital, as more vaccine-administered sites are being arranged to meet residents in the various communities.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mr. Foster Rogers, and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Aisha Andrewin, highly commended the hundreds of persons, who have so far received their first “COVID jab”, for their enthusiasm in coming forward. The top health officials, who appeared on Radio Anguilla on Wednesday, February 10, are continuing to request many more persons to turn up for the treatment.
Up to 80%, or more, of Anguilla’s population is targeted for the AstraZeneca vaccine – a point at which the Government would think it is safe to fully open the island to normal life, increased visitor arrivals and accommodation.
“What our plan is now, is to give the first dose to everybody even if it means more than the 8,000 does that have come,” Mr. Rogers explained. “And then a second dose when the other 7,500 doses are received to supplement.” He added: “We are giving persons appointments for two months,” explaining that the second dose of the vaccine is normally given between twenty-eight days and three months.
A number of persons, who have already received the vaccine, have only reported very slight reactions, thus encouraging many others to get vaccinated.
Meanwhile, the Health Authority of Anguilla has circulated a public information document that states in part:
“The vaccine cannot give you COVID-19 infection, and two doses will reduce your chances of becoming seriously ill. However, you may still need to follow Public Health guidance including wearing the correct personal protection equipment such as mask, handwashing and social distancing. This is important because although you may not become ill from exposure to the virus it is possible for you to infect others.”
