The British Virgin Islands is reporting that 9,079 first doses of the AstraZeneca Vaccine were safely administered as COVID-19 vaccination efforts continue.

 Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Carvin Malone confirmed the numbers of persons who received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine during the Seventh Sitting of the Third Session of the Fourth House of Assembly on April 15.

Honourable Malone stated that of the 34,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine donated to the BVI Government, there is a working projection to fully vaccinate 17,000 qualifying adults before the shelf life expires.

Honourable Malone said, “If we vaccinate sufficient numbers of our population not only will we be protected, but we will begin to break the chain of transmission.  

The Minister for Health  stated that all attempts are continuing to be made to encourage a further 7,848 persons to voluntarily present themselves to be vaccinated that will allow for further consideration in relaxing protocols and re-vitalising the Territory’s economy in the safest way possible.

 Honourable Malone also lauded the new Memorandum of Understanding with the private medical providers which seek to intensify the vaccination programme.

He said, “Private health care providers have agreed to conduct vaccinations at no administrative or product costs to their clients or to the National Health Insurance programme. Now that we have secured several paths forward it is our prediction that the rate of vaccinations would significantly increase. As far as possible, we will accommodate all persons who want to be vaccinated.”

Qualifying residents aged 18 and older are encouraged to get vaccinated to protect themselves and others from getting seriously ill or spreading the COVID-19 virus.

COVID-19 vaccination centres are open Monday through Friday. Persons are encouraged to register online at ministryofhealth.gov.vg/vaccines but walk-ins will also be accommodated with in-person registration on site. Persons must present a government issued form of identification in order to receive their vaccine. Persons should also consult their personal doctor for additional medical advice. To find out more information on COVID-19 vaccines, persons can visit www.bvi.gov.vg/covid-19.