5,486 persons have received the Influenza A/H1N1 vaccine

Port of Spain, December 07, 2009:  The Ministry of Health is pleased to announce that the Influenza A/H1N1 vaccination has been progressing smoothly in Trinidad and Tobago with 5,486 persons having being immunized within the first two (2) weeks.  These persons belong to the high priority groups of frontline health care workers at hospitals and health care facilities (both public and private), national security workers (including the Army and Police), pregnant women, children, key decision makers and persons with chronic respiratory conditions, chronic communicable diseases and immuno-compromised conditions.

H1N1 vaccines have also been sent to private hospitals and they are also available to private doctors for them and their patients at risk through the County Medical Officers of Health. 

Influenza A / H1N1 immunization for the priority groups is still ongoing. Among the groups currently targeted are additional national security workers (including the Prisons, Fire, Coast Guard, Ports, Airports, Immigration and Customs and Excise) and the media.  Pregnant women, children and persons with chronic respiratory conditions, chronic communicable diseases and immuno-compromised conditions will continue to be inoculated during their scheduled visits at health care facilities.

The Ministry of Health has been monitoring for Events Supposedly Attributable to Vaccination or Immunization (ESAVIs).  Some persons experienced a few flu-like symptoms after immunization but no unusual adverse events were observed.

It is to be noted the Ministry of Health’s strategic approach towards H1N1 immunization is recommended by WHO/PAHO and is considered an international best practice.

Citizens are advised to seek official information from Ministry of Health through its website www.health.gov.tt and the Ministry’s hot line, 800-WELL (9355). A comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions has been made available to the public since Sunday, November 29th, 2009 and all persons are encouraged to review it and contact the Ministry if there are any clarifications needed.