As part of the aggressive response to the COVID-19 case spike in the Territory, the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) is maximizing its inoculation campaign by organizing a special weekend vaccination clinic that offers first, second, and third (booster) doses of the Pfizer and Astra Zeneca vaccines.
This vaccination clinic is slated for 8th and 9th January at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital Lobby. The effort is aimed at presenting an option for persons who are unable to make the weekday appointments.
Acting CEO, Dr. June Samuel explained that the vaccination drive is the main tool the BVIHSA is using to combat the effects of the ongoing pandemic. She stated, “as we continue to navigate our way through the COVID-19 pandemic, we now have several tools that give us a fighting chance. Vaccination has proven to be very useful in many infectious diseases such as measles, polio and hepatitis B.”
Dr. Samuel urged the community to take advantage of the various vaccination locations and schedules. “Full Vaccination decreases your risk of being seriously ill as well as death especially where there are co-occurring illnesses. By getting vaccinated you protect yourself, your loved ones and our community. This drive is to provide you with the opportunity to easily access the vaccines,” the Acting CEO noted.
This weekend’s vaccination offerings will be taking place at the following times: Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday 1pm to 5 pm; and persons are asked to walk with their vaccine cards and official ID.
In addition to this weekend, persons who have not received their booster or any dose of a COVID 19 vaccine are asked to take note that vaccination continues at the Catholic Church Center in Road Town, and the following community clinics: Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost van Dyke. Vaccination is also being done at Registered Private facilities.
It should be noted as well that senior citizens, immune compromised persons and children ages 12-17 can receive the boosters that are given three months after the last dose of one dose or two-doses of the COVID-19 vaccine regimen.
In prevention of further spread of COVID 19 the public is also encouraged to wear properly fitting face masks, wash and/or sanitize hands for 20 seconds, and physically distance (>3ft) regardless of vaccination status.