Minister of Health Terrence Deyalsingh says the country will receive its complement of vaccines to fight the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) today, November 4.
Minister of Health, Terrence Deyalsingh
In a statement and press release issued by the Ministry of Health, Minister Deyalsingh says the virus has been endemic to Trinidad and Tobago since 2009, adding that the Government has been informing the public of the arrival of the vaccines since October. He said the doses will be distributed to health centers across the country, noting that the number of vaccines has increased over the years.
The Minister also reminded citizens to take personal health precautions to protect themselves and their families from the Influenza virus and other diseases. After vaccination, individuals should still take preventative measures, as they help to reduce the spread of diseases.
In the press release which was also issued along with the Minister’s statements, other precautions citizens can take include:
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.
- Where possible, avoid close contact with sick people.
- While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
The release states that pregnant women, children aged six months to five years, adults over 65, and people with chronic medical and respiratory illnesses are vulnerable to the flu. Persons in the health care workforce and essential services should also take the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves against the flu.
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