Ministry of Health's Virtual Media Conference On COVID-19 - Saturday 16th January 2021

Key Points from the Ministry of Health's Virtual Media Conference On COVID-19: Saturday 16th January 2021 Distribution of COVID-19 vaccines under the COVAX facility remains on track and should start at the end of the first quarter of 2021. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Roshan Parasram reiterated information from PAHO that as much 15 COVID-19 vaccines may be on offer to Member States under the COVAX facility. Dr. Parasram reminded that the policy for re-entry into T&T remains a Negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival to this country. He confirmed that he reached out to the CMO of Barbados as some TT Nationals have been unable to secure their test results in time for their flights home, due to a high number of persons being tested in that country. He assured that he will continue to hold discussions with his Barbados counterpart in order to facilitate the timely arrival of results for Returning Nationals. County Medical Officer of Health – St. George East, Dr. Osafo Fraser, reminded citizens that proper health protocols should be maintained, even as the country prepares to receive COVID-19 vaccines in a few months. Protocols include: - Avoid large gatherings. - Wear masks to cover your nose, mouth and chin. Also wear masks at family/private gatherings. - Use open air spaces where possible, or maintain 6 feet distance. - Wash hands frequently and properly (front, back, between fingers). - If ill, stay at home. If presenting with COVID-19 symptoms, get tested. - Clean hard surfaces often. District Health Visitor Nurse Avarlon Johnson Herrera gave insight into vaccine storage and the process used to get vaccines to the public. She stated that all Health Centres have special refrigerators that store vaccines at the correct temperature, and these are monitored daily. Thermometers are used to ensure the vaccines are stored at the correct temperature, and some vaccine fridges also come with thermometers already installed. Additionally: 1. There are systems in place to monitor vaccines and their safety. 2. Health officers are trained in administering vaccines. 3. The public can access Health Centres on any concerns they have.