The Ministry of Health will begin its flu vaccination campaign on Monday September 16th 2024.
The flu season usually runs from October in one year to May the following year, with a peak in cases usually noted in the period December to March.
Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh told a media conference that T&T’s stock of vaccines arrived last week, which was earlier than expected.
He also reminded that the flu shot is a seasonal vaccine and not an annual one, as it is administered during the flu season.
For the upcoming flu season, 75,000 doses have been procured at a cost of US$4.45 per dose.
These will be available at all health centres free of charge.
The Minister also got things started by rolling up his sleeve to be administered a shot.
The Ministry is urging eligible persons to get vaccinated as soon as possible. In particular. those belonging to the following high-risk groups:
Children aged 6 months to 5 years.
Adults 60 years of age and over.
Pregnant women.
Persons with Non-Communicable Diseases – e.g. Diabetes, Hypertension, Heart Disease – regardless of age.
Persons with compromised immune systems – e.g. persons with Lupus, certain Cancer patients.
Persons with chronic respiratory illnesses – e.g. Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
Healthcare workers.