Muscat: Wake Up To Reality That Vaccines Save Lives

The Deputy Medical Officer of Health says people 'as a whole' need to wake up to the reality that vaccines save lives, prevent severe disease, and limit COVID transmission.

80% of adults in Jersey are now fully vaccinated, but uptake amongst younger age groups remains slightly lower.

In the 18-29 age group, 64% have got the first dose and 50% have got both.

People going into nightclubs in England from the end of September will have to show proof of being fully vaccinated, in an attempt to improve take-up amongst younger adults.

Senator Lyndon Farnham says that the same rule isn't going to be imposed in Jersey.

He then criticised what he calls 'misinformation being peddled' about vaccine safety.

Dr. Muscat says vaccines have stood the test of time and proven to be safe and effective.

"It is estimated that in the UK, COVID vaccination has prevented something like 30,000 deaths and prevented some eight million infections.

"The safety of COVID vaccination is becoming more and more apparent as we go forward.

"The risk of severe side-effects is extremely low. Compared with the benefits of vaccination, you really have to go for vaccination."

As of Sunday 8 August, 70,000 people had received both doses of a vaccine in Jersey.

10% of 16 and 17-year-olds in Jersey have got a first dose. Appointments opened for this age group last week.

Rock-up clinics are continuing until Sunday 15 August for first doses only. 188 people got their jab at a pop-up station last week without pre-booking an appointment.

Appointments are also continuing at Fort Regent.

"It is absolutely fantastic that we have reached this huge milestone (80% of adults fully vaccinated). Four out of every five Islanders aged over 18 are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. This is a brilliant achievement for the Island and the vaccination team. I’d like to thank the community and the vaccination team once more for reaching this milestone, it shows how the Island has come together during a difficult and unprecedented time.

"Islanders are still coming forward for their first and second doses, and it is also great that 10% of 16 and 17-year olds came forward for their first dose in just three days of being eligible. Although the Rock Up clinics are coming to an end this Sunday, we will still be administering first and second doses at Fort Regent’s Vaccination Centre. We have plenty of supply so please do come and walk-in for an appointment with your friends or family and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask one of our medical staff who will be able to assist you."

Talks are ongoing about vaccinating 12 to 15-year-olds with underlying health conditions who also apply for a vaccine.

The government says it's talking to parents, pediatricians, law officers, and the Children's Commissioner to make sure this is done 'in a safe and ethical way'.