In the two weeks since the flu vaccine was offered to members of the public at the end of October, 1600 Caymanians have been vaccinated against the flu.
Employees of various companies, school staff members, and other residents of the Cayman Islands are among the 1600 already vaccinated. Some companies are asking the Public Health Department to bring the vaccine to their offices, enabling employees to receive flu shots at work. Companies who employ more than 20 workers are eligible for this service.
The importance of the flu shot is even more significant this autumn and winter thanks to the imminent spread of COVID-19, according to a release by the Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Samuel Williams-Rodriguez. The flu vaccine can minimise the transmission of the flu virus and protect Caymanians against the “double threat of flu and COVID-19.” In the release, Dr. Williams-Rodriguez urged everyone to take advantage of the offer of a free flu shot in order to be protected.
The Public Health Department has given flu shots to anyone who has made a request at local hospitals and health clinics. Companies have also made the flu vaccine available to their employees. More flu shots are available, and extra supplies can be accessed if needed.
The General Practice Clinic at the Cayman Islands Hospital is offering flu shots, as well as all District Health Centres, from 2pm to 4pm, Monday through Friday.
Residents of Cayman Brac are encouraged to call Faith Hospital and the Little Cayman Clinic to set up an appointment to receive the flu shot.
The Health Services Authority advises Caymanians to get the flu shot as soon as possible and before December. This timing enables the flu vaccine to work within the body and to ensure that the antibodies are properly positioned before the spread of the flu is at its most virulent. Anyone six months or older will benefit from the flu vaccine, but people who are vulnerable to more severe flu-related illnesses and complications as well as their carers are advised especially to get the vaccine.
