THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH ENCOURAGES CITIZENS TO GET VACCINATED AMID A SURGE OF RESPIRATORY ILLNESSES.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs has noted an increase in respiratory infections over the last four weeks. As such, the Deputy Immunization Manager in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, Bernadette Felix-Regis has prompted the public to get vaccinated.

“As Saint Lucia continues to record confirmed cases of COVID-19, the Ministry of Health,

Wellness and Elderly Affairs encourages persons who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19, or are partially vaccinated to visit their nearest wellness centre and get vaccinated. Persons with chronic illnesses and the elderly are particularly advised to get vaccinated. Vaccination remains the best protection against severe COVID-19 illness, hospitalization, and death,” she said.

The Deputy Immunization Manager has informed the public of the availability of the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines at community wellness centres.

She said: “The Pfizer and Janssen COVID-19 vaccines, and the Influenza vaccine are available at all wellness centres as of Sep. 11, 2023. Both the COVID-19 vaccine and the influenza vaccine can be administered at the same time. The Pfizer vaccine will be available from Sep. 11 to Sep. 30. The Jansen vaccine is available until Jan. 31, 2024. The public is advised to access the vaccines during that period as they may not be available after those dates.”

As with COVID-19, influenza is highly contagious and a potentially fatal respiratory disease. She has advised that persons should get vaccinated annually as a result of the seasonal changes of the virus.

The vaccines are available free of charge to the public at any wellness centre facility. For additional information contact the Community Health Services Unit at 758.468-5321.