Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has confirmed that talks are taking place between Jamaica and the UK regarding the UK’s rejection of AstraZeneca vaccine batches not produced there. This came after several Jamaicans complained that despite being vaccinated with the AstraZeneca vaccines gifted from India, they were treated as unvaccinated travelers in the U.K. The authorities say while vaccine mixing is being tested more study is needed before locals get that opportunity.
In Jamaica’s case, the country received Astrazeneca vaccines from other countries to include India. These were used to vaccinate many locals.
However, upon arrival at UK ports, these vaccinations were unrecognized.
The matter of vaccine mixing also surfaced at the latest COVID-19 media briefing, as the trend picks up in sections of Europe, Canada, and even the United States. Some have questioned if vaccine mixing would be a better option rather than dumping the precious vials, but the local authorities explain.
Dr. Ennis says if and until further studies are conducted and the green light given by the World Health Organization, W.H.O, and the distributors, Jamaica will not be engaging in this practice.
In the meantime, she says while most deaths after vaccination have been reported following the AZ vaccine, there is no link between the jab and the subsequent deaths.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jaquiline Bisasor Mckenzie explains.
