Free seasonal flu vaccines available to all residents

Vaccines for the seasonal flu have arrived and all Cayman residents can get a shot for free at several health centres without an appointment.

Dr. Samuel Williams Rodriguez, medical officer of health and director of primary health care, made the announcement in a press release issued Wednesday, 4 Oct.

“All persons six months and older are encouraged to get the flu vaccine to protect themselves and others,” he said.

“It is especially important for people at high risk of severe flu-related complications and those who live with or care for them to be vaccinated against the flu.”

The vaccines are available at the Cayman Islands Hospital, district health centres in Grand Cayman, Faith Hospital on Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman Clinic.

Patients should indicate to the registration officers at the health centres that they are there to have the flu shot.

The vaccinations will be given at the following locations and times:

• The atrium (front entrance) at the Cayman Islands Hospital, from 10am to noon, from Friday, 6 Oct. to Friday, 20 Oct. (weekdays only).
• The General Practice Clinic at the Smith Road Medical Centre and all district health centres, from 2pm to 4pm, Monday to Friday, starting Tuesday, 10 Oct.

• Faith Hospital in Cayman Brac, from 3pm to 4pm, Monday to Thursday, beginning Tuesday, 10 Oct.
• The Little Cayman Clinic – Residents of Little Cayman should contact the clinic to make arrangements.

“The Public Health Department will continue our onsite workplace vaccination initiative for companies with 20 or more employees wishing to have the vaccine,” Rodriguez said.

“This is to minimise workplace disruption and ensure that as many persons as possible get vaccinated.”

Companies interested in the programme should contact the Public Health Department on 244-2621, 244-2889, or email [email protected] to register.

Flu shots will also be available at participating supermarkets across the islands in the coming weeks, and a schedule will be provided later.

All flu shots are given on a first come first serve basis and are only available until supplies last.

COVID-19 vaccines are not yet available. The Public Health Department will announce when the next batch of vaccines becomes available, according to the press release.