Influenza vaccines to be available in community centres from Sept 11: Saint Lucia Health Ministry

Castries, Saint Lucia: The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs informed the general public of Saint Lucia about the availability of the COVID-19 and Influenza Vaccine at the community wellness centres from September 11, 2023 (Monday).

According to the update provided by the health ministry on September 7, these vaccinations will now be provided for every citizen at the medical institutions. The availability of vaccines has increased because of the looming threat of the virus and its threat.

While sharing this news, the Ministry also emphasised the fact that, like COVID-19, the Flu is a contagious and potentially serious respiratory disease that can result in unfavourable outcomes such as severe illness, hospitalisation and death.

The Health authorities also mentioned that it is, therefore, important for persons, especially our vulnerable population and the elderly, to be vaccinated against the virus causing the Flu. The Flu virus constantly changes, and as a result, the vaccine is updated from one season to the next to protect against newer influenza virus strains. For this reason, it is recommended that persons get vaccinated annually.

Ministry of Health highlighted that the Pfizer Janssen COVID-19 vaccines and the Influenza vaccine are available at all wellness centres. “It is important to note, both the COVID-19 vaccine and Influenza Vaccine can be administered at the same time,” the Ministry outlined through social media.

It has been anticipated that these vaccines will assist the government and the health authorities in reducing the risk of flu illnesses, severe infection, hospitalisation and death. The Ministry outlined that the influenza vaccine is safe and can be administrated by people living with chronic health conditions and pregnant women. Vaccines are an important preventative tool, highlighted the health ministry.

According to the Health Ministry, the threat of infection is high from the month of October to March. These months are often counted as the months of flu season. It also mentioned that with the modification in the Flu and virus, the vaccines are also updated from season to season.