Lines for vaccine at new centre at QPS

HUNDREDS of people, mostly elderly, turned up to receive their first doses of the covid19 vaccine at the Paddock in the Queen's Park Savannah on Thursday.

The protective services, including police, army, fire and coast guard, ensured orderly queues as the venue opened for use as a vaccine distribution site.

The Ministry of Health opened the Paddock and the National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua, in addition to other additional sites in Morvant, Carenage and St Helena, to expedite the distribution of vaccines.

The Savannah and Tacarigua sites will remain open until 4 pm on Sunday.

Newsday spoke with a retired woman who identified herself only as Ms Ali, who said she took the vaccine because she "believes in the science" and has family around her to protect.

Ali said it was an easy decision to register, after seeking multiple opinions from experts.

"Vaccines have been around for ever," she said. "I vaccinated my children against all kinds of diseases.

"I think there's a lot that still isn't understood (about the vaccines), but if you have to take health advice from someone, it should be the Ministry of Health and the minister, and your doctor."

When Newsday visited the Paddock around midday, there were no lines at the entrance. Only those who registered were allowed entry and signed in by staff of the North West Regional Health Authority. There was also ample seating and cover from the sun.

In most cases, the process takes less than an hour.

The Ministry of Health issued notices and warnings yesterday to those interested in receiving the vaccines.

Don't take the vaccine if you are:

Pregnant and breastfeeding

Under 18

Have a history of severe reactions to a component in the vaccine.

What to do on the day you get the vaccine:

Have a good meal or non-alcoholic beverage

Wear clothing that will provide easy access to the upper arm for vaccination.

Bring a form of ID

An immunisation card or clinic card where applicable.

After receiving the first dose of the vaccine, the immunisation card will be updated with relevant information including the type of covid19 vaccine administered, the date received and the next appointment date.

An immunisation card will be provided for those who do not have a card.

Those who receive the vaccine have to remain under observation for 30 minutes before leaving.

They will be contacted to be reminded of their next appointment date, when they should return to the same facility for their second dose.