No Lockdown Plans but Minnis Pleads with Bahamians to Get Vaccinated
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Prime Minister Hubert Minnis did not announce a national lockdown during his national address, as presumed by many. However, he begged Bahamians to get vaccinated as COVID-19 cases claim more lives and hospitalization at the country’s hospitals surges.
In a national address to the country on Wednesday night, Minnis asked Bahamians to disregard the anti-vaccination disinformation circulating social media which are hampering vaccination efforts.
“These falsehoods are leading to serious illnesses and deaths by those who base their decisions on this false information. They are making people afraid of medical science and vaccines.
“I want to be very clear, we are in a struggle between life and death. Taking the vaccine will protect you from serious disease and deaths.
“The vaccines have been tested. They are safe. There is nothing to be afraid of. The virus that causes covid19 is easy to catch.
“Our public health experts recommend you take the vaccine. World health experts recommend that you take the vaccine. As a medical doctor of 40 plus years, I recommend you take the vaccine. Do not listen to fake news over the medical science.”
Vaccines have been limited in the country as doses are only available for people receiving the second jab.
Minnis said his government has been working hard for many months to secure more vaccines.
“We have been trying to move heaven and earth to secure more vaccines.”
The 3rd tranche of prepaid vaccines of 33,600 doses of AstraZeneca through the COVAX facility is expected to arrive next week, Minnis said.
He said the government is also working with Caricom and the US government regarding donation of Pfizer vaccine.
Pfizer will be offered to 12 to 17-year-olds with the consent of parents and guardians.
