A total of 887 residents were immunised against COVID-19 during Operation Protect Each Other Drive-Thru Vaccination over the weekend.

Approximately 753 persons received their first dose, while 134 persons received their second dose of the AstraZeneca Vaccine that boosts immunity to combat the COVID-19 virus.

Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Carvin Malone continues to encourage persons to get vaccinated to add that extra layer of protection against what is believed to be a stronger variant of the COVID-19 virus in the Territory.

Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Andrew A. Fahie acknowledged the BVI coming together as a community particularly those who volunteered their time from various ministries, the health teams, Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, Red Cross, UNICEF, retired medical professionals and many other citizens who supported and helped to organise the successful event.

Operation Protect Each Other Drive-Thru Vaccination will be held all week from July 19 to July 25 at the Festival Grounds in Tortola from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The drive-thru will allow vehicles to enter the eastern gate of the Festival Grounds and be able to register, get inoculated, receive their cards and drive off in the convenience of their cars. Persons aged 18 and older are encouraged to pre-fill registration forms available online at ministryofhealth.gov.vg/vaccines, or register on site, walk with a government issued identification, wear their face masks and wear short sleeved tops for easy access to getting their vaccine shot.

The COVID-19 AstraZeneca vaccine provides additional protection by boosting immunity by creating antibodies, preventing and reducing the risk of severe illness, reducing the risk of death from COVID-19, reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19 and ultimately allowing the community to reconnect. COVID-19 vaccines paired with all health measures such as hand washing and sanitising, proper face mask wearing and physical distancing can provide optimal protection as countries around the world are still adjusting to living in the COVID-19 era.