University students urged to take COVID-19 vaccine

HEAD OF the School of Public Health at the University of Technology and Caribbean Regional Director of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Dr Kevin Harvey, is urging all university students to get vaccinated to protect themselves against the COVID-19 virus. He says this will help to return the learning process and school life to some normality in September

On Friday, July 31 the Government indicated that all persons 18 years and over can now make an appointment to get the vaccine.

Dr Harvey said COVID-19 has been affecting persons of all age groups and the best way to reduce possible adverse effects is to get the vaccine. “We still have daily infections from the virus, and so it is important that at this time we all do what we can to reduce the spread. Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you,” he explained.

He added that the more infectious Delta variant in circulation in other countries poses a risk for Jamaica. “This variant seems to affect more younger persons, with those under 40 needing to be hospitalised as a result of infection,” he said.

Dr Harvey is also urging everyone to continue taking other precautions to protect themselves and others against COVID-19. These include wearing a mask in public, washing hands frequently, socially distancing, and using a hand sanitiser.

Persons will be required to make an appointment to get the vaccine, and can do so by following these steps:

1. Go to the Ministry of Health and Wellness website, www.moh.gov.jm.

2. Click on the link to set your vaccine appointment. Provide the required information and follow the instructions provided.

3. If you need assistance in making an appointment, call 888-ONE-LOVE; that is, 888-663-5683.

The vaccination centres for Kingston and St Andrew are the National Arena, St Joseph’s Hospital, Mona Ageing and Wellness Centre, Good Samaritan Inn, and the University Hospital of the West Indies.