Boosting Vax Numbers Before Booster Shot

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – While the United States’ Centers for Disease Control has recommended that some vaccines would need a booster follow up, booster shots aren’t being considered locally just yet, according to one health expert who says getting Bahamians vaccinated is most important at this time.

Jillian Gray has that. 

People may require vaccine booster shots in the future but Dr Nikkiah Forbes says its fairness and equal access to vaccines that’s top priority right now.

The infectious diseases expert was responding to questions about if a second shot of the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine could be recommended locally.

On Friday, experts in the United States urged those who received the J&J shot to get a booster shot as soon as its available.

According to the CDC, people over 65, those with underlying medical conditions and those who work in high-risk settings should all consider getting a vaccine booster six months after their Pfizer shot.

For Johnson & Johnson its suggested that just two months after taking the one-shot vaccine people should get another.

However, Dr Forbes says with only 30 percent of people fully vaccinated in country the focus is on getting people vaccinated.

Minnis’ fear of needles did not stop him from getting the Johnson & Johnson shot.

He said having to bury his brother this past weekend was the final straw.

Over 119,000 people in The Bahamas are fully vaccinated.