36,000 vaccinated against COVID-19 in Guyana

A total of 36, 000 persons have received their first dose of either the Sinopharm or AstraZeneca vaccines, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony revealed on Thursday.

The minister also noted that some persons have also begun receiving their second dose of the Sinopharm vaccine. While noting that the vaccination campaign has been rolling out smoothly, Dr Anthony said healthcare workers in Region Ten are still hesitant about taking the vaccine.

“There are still quite a number of healthcare workers there that haven’t taken their vaccines,” Dr Anthony said.

He noted that there is no particular reason for the health workers not taking the vaccine and also reminded that it is not mandatory for persons to take the jab.

The minister also revealed that the vaccination campaign has been further boosted by the recent donation of 24, 000 doses of AstraZeneca by the COVAX facility.

Guyana is also anticipating the arrival of 25,000 doses of Sputnik-V from Russia on Friday.

Additionally, after the Easter Holiday, other categories of frontline workers, such as teachers and members of the joint services, will be prioritised to be vaccinated.