Manager for the Expanded Programme on Immunization, Ms. Marina Bedeau is reminding residents of the Virgin Islands that being vaccinated prevents the spread of disease as the Territory observes Vaccination Week 2021.

Ms. Bedeau said that vaccination week is an opportunity to highlight the importance of being vaccinated against vaccine preventable diseases. She said, “During this time, we want to encourage the community to don’t procrastinate and vaccinate against COVID-19.  The financial global impact that we all are currently facing is also proof that getting vaccinated is a cost effective measure to lessen the negative health, social and economic impact of the pandemic.” 

According to the EPI manager, vaccines brings us closer by keeping us healthy and ensuring that we remain disease free so that we can enjoy family gatherings and other social functions without having to worry about being infected or infecting others.While COVID vaccination is currently in the spotlight, Nurse Bedeau also cautioned the community to remember that other routine vaccines are absolutely and equally as important for keeping diseases at bay. “I encourage you to continue with your regular routine immunisation in the midst of this pandemic,” she admonished.Vaccination Week 2021is being observed from April 24 to 30 under the theme “Vaccination brings us closer #GETVAX. Persons are encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider and learn more about vaccines and vaccine preventable diseases to better understand the importance that vaccination plays in healthcare management. 

BVI Health Services Authority is committed to delivering excellent, compassionate, client centered healthcare.