COVID-19 Vaccination uptake: Ministry of Health Appeals for More Persons to get Vaccine

Since the 5th of February 2021, over 4,700 persons have received their first dose of the Astrazeneca vaccine on Anguilla. However, the Ministry of Health (MoH) encourages residents to improve the uptake of the vaccines in the coming weeks. The remaining stock of vaccines that will be shipped to Anguilla is dependent on the uptake of the first dose by residents. Vaccinations remain a critical component to permit the full re-opening of Anguilla to passenger travel while protecting the population from the negative health impacts of COVID-19. The goal is for a minimum of 70% of the population to be vaccinated to reduce the restrictive entry measures including the quarantine requirement.

Anguilla has been on track to complete first dose administration for target populations by the middle of April or earlier with the second dose administration completed by the middle of July. However, recent slowing trends in vaccination rates reduce our chances of meeting these date targets. While, the present COVID-19 protocols have limited the spread of COVID-19 of Anguilla, they have significantly reduced the number of tourist arrivals and severely impacted economic activity. One of the critical determinants of health is economic productivity. Therefore, Anguilla must re-open to our main economic driver in the near future. The Ministry of Health is appealing to persons to get vaccinated before the full re-opening of Anguilla.

Additionally, the Ministry has noted an increasing number of missed appointments and appeals to persons to honour their appointments. Not only are persons with appointments prioritized in the vaccination queue, but the appointment system is also key to proper planning to meet daily vaccination targets.

Furthermore, persons are now encouraged to walk in to the main site at the rear of the Princess Alexandra Hospital during the daily operating hours of 9:00 to11:45am and 1:15 to 3:30pm Mondays to Fridays. Walk-ins are especially encouraged during the periods 10:30 to 11:45am and 2 to 3pm.

The Ministry and the Health Authority will also open an additional vaccination site in South Hill by March 15th and will make a formal announcement of the operating hours when this is finalized.

While we get our vaccine coverage up to the critical mass, the Ministry of Health reminds the public to continue practicing hygienic measures to protect against COVID-19. These include:

• • Frequent Handwashing; if water is unavailable utilize an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Covering coughs or sneezes with a disposable tissue or in the crook of a flexed elbow.
• Avoiding contact with persons who are ill with symptoms of acute respiratory infections such as fever or cough.
• Regularly cleaning surfaces and objects that are frequently touched or handled

Persons with any questions or concerns should call the Ministry’s hotlines at 476-7627, that is 476 SOAP or 584-4263, that is 584-HAND. Person who have been vaccinated and experience any side effects or adverse reactions are encouraged to report this at 235-4357 that is 235- HELP. The Ministry of Health will continue to provide timely updates through our media partners, our official Facebook page or at www.beatcovid19.ai.