The uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine in the Cayman Islands continues to be very positive. Healthcare workers and government officials already receiving their second dose include His Excellency the Governor Hon. Martyn Roper, Premier Hon. Alden McLaughlin, Health Minister Hon Dwayne Seymour and Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Lee. 

“We are pleased to see that the vaccine has been met with such enthusiasm by the community,” said Governor Roper. “We encourage those who are due for their second dose to check the current National Vaccination Campaign schedule to see what days they may visit the COVID Vaccination Clinic, which has been relocated offsite to the Owen Roberts International Airport (ORIA). Remember that the vaccine is most effective if you receive the two required doses as one dose will only provide partial protection from the virus.”

The officials all received their second dose on Thursday, 28 January at ORIA. While the response to the vaccine has been positive, the Premier is urging members of the community within the eligible stages to take greater advantage of the availability of the vaccines.

“The Cayman Islands is in a very fortunate position to have these vaccines,” said Premier McLaughlin. “We have an opportunity that many from other countries can only hope for, and we must come together to do the right thing. Therefore, I am urging our Caymanians, particularly those in the older age group, to get vaccinated. It is for our own good, for the protection of our people and continuation of our economy.” 

The Health Services Authority (HSA) and the Cayman Islands Airport Authority (CIAA) have partnered to improve the process of delivering the COVID-19 vaccination. Effective 27 January 2021, the COVID Vaccine Clinic was relocated to the ORIA check-in area.

“Having administered over 7,000 doses of this vaccine, we are confident that the vaccines can be delivered in a non-clinical setting, as is done elsewhere in North America and Europe, provided there are equipment and supplies to address an emergency should one arise,” said HSA Chief Nursing Officer and Acting CEO, Dr Hazel Brown. “The airport terminal with its large space and ample parking improves the efficiency of the vaccine delivery, reducing wait time and expediting the overall process.”

After the vaccine is administered, persons are asked to sit in a rest area for 15 minutes before leaving the venue. This allows time to see, in the rare event, if there are any immediate side effects. Should any vaccine recipient experience a serious side effect, medical staff are on-site to administer care. 

The UK sent a further 9,750 doses of the Pfizer vaccine on the British Airways flight arriving on 28th January 2021.

For the most up to date schedule and list of stages, please visit https://hsa.ky/public-health/coronavirus/