Grand Cayman – The Public Health Department has announced that all persons aged 18 and over are now eligible to receive booster shots three months after their second COVID-19 vaccination.

                The decision comes as a precaution in light of the recent development of the Omicron COVID-19 variant. While research is still being conducted on the new variant, preliminary findings claim Omicron is highly transmissible and has the potential to re-infect those who have previously recovered from COVID-19.

Vaccines continue to be the best proven defence against COVID-19 and should be sought as a protective measure, until more data on Omicron becomes available comments Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Samuel Williams-Rodriguez.

               The Omicron variant has not been found in the Cayman Islands to date.

Dr Williams-Rodriguez adds, “The reduction in time between second and third doses is aligned with the UK Health Security Agency’s current guidance on COVID-19 management. The people of the Cayman Islands are encouraged to get any vaccine dose that they are eligible for as a safety measure, especially as we enter the holiday season. In addition to seeking vaccination, we urge the public to remain vigilant by practicing hand hygiene, wearing masks while in enclosed spaces and making conscious decisions about social gathering.”

Vaccination clinics also remain open for first and second doses for all persons aged 12 and over. The latest COVID-19 vaccination schedule can be found at https://www.hsa.ky/public-health/coronavirus/.