“I am pleased to advise that Bermuda has met our coronavirus vaccination goal to have a third of our eligible population receiving their 2nd and 3rd booster,” said Minister of Health, Kim Wilson. “This is good news, as vaccinations are the best way to fight the coronavirus, protect our community and save lives.”
A spokesperson added, “Bermuda received its last vaccine shipment in September 2022, which included Pfizer-BioNTech original Adult formulation, Moderna Bivalent and Pfizer-BioNTech paediatric coronavirus vaccines. Since October 1, 2022, 3868 coronavirus vaccine doses have been administered.
“The Ministry of Health successfully distributed all the Moderna Bivalent and Pfizer-BioNTech paediatric vaccines received last September. However, we still have the adult Pfizer formulation that can be used until April 2023. The Pfizer adult vaccine is safe and effective and can be used in place of the Moderna Bivalent vaccine.
“We are incredibly grateful for the collective efforts of local pharmacies, GPs, paediatricians, the Bermuda Diabetes Center and the St John’s Ambulance Brigade, who have been administering the vaccines since last October,” said Minister Wilson.
“They were instrumental in helping to fight the pandemic and protect our community. They provided testing and were a tremendous support in improving access and convenience to the coronavirus vaccine, outside of normal office hours and through a larger distribution network than existed previously. Their dedication and contributions will have a lasting impact on our community.”
A spokesperson added, “The public is reminded that there are actions that everyone can take to protect themselves and to avoid catching the flu, coronavirus or Respiratory syncytial virus [RSV], and other respiratory diseases prevalent during colder weather.
“Frequent hand washing, mask-wearing, maintaining social distancing and having good ventilation while indoors will help protect you, your loved ones and our vulnerable community, seniors and those who are immunocompromised.
“Avoid the “Three Cs”: close contact, crowded spaces and confined places with poor ventilation, especially if you live in a high-risk household, with adults with preexisting conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, heart disease or anyone immune-compromised. Our vulnerable community also includes patients undergoing cancer treatment.
“Demand for the COVID-19 vaccines has decreased, and to avoid wastage, the Government plans to order additional supplies for early fall, in time for the next flu season.
Minister Wilson concluded: “The coronavirus is still with us; although under better control, it is still a threat, and we must remain vigilant. Sadly, we have had coronavirus-related deaths, and I offer my sincere condolences to the family and friends who recently lost their loved ones. I strongly encourage all eligible individuals should get the coronavirus vaccination and get boosted on time.”
To view a list of private healthcare providers offering the COVID-19 vaccine, go to https://bhec.bm/covid-testing-facilities.
