Third Batch of Vaccines through COVAX

SAINT Lucia received its third batch of Astra Zeneca COVID-19 vaccine through the COVAX facility.

The Government of Saint Lucia recently received 24, 000 doses of the Astra Zeneca COVID-19 vaccine through the COVAX facility.

This shipment of the Astra Zeneca vaccine was made possible through the Pan American Health Organisation PAHO and WHO.

Minister for Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs Hon. Moses Jn. Baptiste says the government remains committed to make vaccines readily available to the population.

“The focus is to ensure equitable distribution of vaccine. While Saint Lucia will receive its initial supply, the country will procure additional vaccines to ensure that everyone who needs the vaccine receives it. Saint Lucia has received two installments totaling 50, 400 doses. This third installment of 24, 000 doses will provide vaccines to cover approximately 6% of the population as the Ministry continues steadfast in its fight against this pandemic.”

The Minister for Health also encouraged Saint Lucians to visit the various vaccination sites and get vaccinated to protect themselves from the COVID-19 virus.

National Immunisation Manager Tecla Jn. Baptiste spoke on the effectiveness of vaccines in fighting the COVID-19 virus and the goal for Saint Lucia to reach population immunity.

“The availability of safe and effective vaccines is the opportunity for us to regain some measure of normalcy. Vaccines undoubtedly the most cost effective public health strategy to combat this pandemic and to decrease the burden of disease in our small country Saint Lucia. There is no doubt that the vaccines we have received today from the COVAX facility will be a real support and assistance towards achieving our goal.”

The COVAX facility is a global partnership between the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations CEPI, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, the Pan American Health Organisation and the World Health Organisation.