Malone: Gov't Willing To Source Pfizer, Moderna Vaccines
The Minister gave that indication during an update on the COVID-19 vaccine via a social media broadcast last night, July 8.
“We will find whichever brand is best for you. We have been in contact, and we will find ways in which those persons requiring the Pfizer, Moderna vaccines could possibly have access to them,” he said.
He continued: “If this is your only hold up for it (to be vaccinated), we will seek ways in which we can do this, we will give you a hotline number which you can call, and we will see how best we can talk. Everything must be done to return the Virgin Islands to the Virgin Islands that we can roam freely without the fear of this virus.”
Despite having access to free vaccines from AstraZeneca, a number of residents, particularly the local population, have been hesitant to accept the jabs.
More Vaccines Coming
In the meantime, Hon. Malone said the United Kingdom is willing to supply 3040 doses will be supplied on July 19 2021.
He said this batch would expire sometime in August, and in August, the UK has again committed to shipping more, however Hon. Malone pointed out that it is not prudent to continue to get these doses if we do not use them effectively.
“In addition, the UK has also indicated that 15,000 home kits for monitoring COVID-19 is on its way also. So Public Health England, with the UK’s commitment, we have a number of assistance that will be forthcoming.”
More Funding
The Health Minister also revealed that the government has pledged to pump additional funds into the continued COVID-19 fight.
“Cabinet agreed to allocate an initial sum of $500,000 for the purpose of securing resources and personnel to address the surge in the COVID-19 cases in the territory,” he remarked, adding that the sum will be approved by the Financial Secretary together with the Ministry of Health and Social Development before any funds are expended for this purpose.
“The situation in the territory remains a troubling one, but I continue to admonish all of us to follow the measures as this is the only true way that we are going to get through this,” he added.
