Vaccination party for young people 16-24

(CMR) Public Health is hosting a vaccination drive for persons 16 to 24 years old at Camana Bay on Friday 9th April. The event to be held in the format of a party aims to encourage this age group of young people to get their first or second COVID-19 shot.

Health Services Authority staff will be providing vaccinations in the Doctors Hospital clinic between 3 and 7 pm, with the vac-CI-NATION party taking place on Forum Lane.

This free event is exclusively for persons aged 16-24 years old who must present a Public Health vaccination card showing their first or second COVID shot to receive entry.

The Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman will be running a raffle for those eligible for this drive. Persons must present proof of age (16-24) and evidence of their first vaccination for a chance to win one of ten $100 Camana Bay gift cards. 

Dr. John Lee, Chief Medical Officer, said he would like to see an increase in uptake of the vaccine within this age group.

“It is likely that those younger will suffer less in terms of the burden of illness; nevertheless, the new variants appear to be affecting young groups more than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus so the young are not ‘immune’,” Dr Lee said.

He further explained that “the young are a significant cause of spread for this highly infectious virus, so they may inadvertently transmit the virus to the vulnerable, loved ones, friends and colleagues – this itself will cause illness and deaths.”

The vac-CI-NATION event will feature DMS Broadcasting, with  DJ Dave Kelly providing music from 5 – 7 pm. There will also be a photo booth and treats and drinks. Persons will also have the opportunity to win Raffle Prizes – one of ten $100 Camana Bay Gift Cards.

Individuals 16 and 17 must also have parents present for consent. 

 Persons are also asked to bring along a completed consent form available at https://www.hsa.ky/public-health/coronavirus/. 

Health Services Authority staff will be on-site to answer questions about the vaccine. 

“I encourage all persons 16-24 to attend this event and get vaccinated. I thank those who have already stepped forward to receive the vaccine and ask that they talk to their peers openly about the vaccine and side effects from the injection,” Dr. Lee stated.

He noted that there are many myths and misconceptions about this vaccine and that some people are nervous about side effects.

“However, most have little to no side effects, with the most common being arm soreness, tiredness, fever, and chills. Side effects from the vaccine are minimal compared to the life-threatening symptoms that could come with contracting COVID-19,” Dr. Lee added.  

Persons should bring a government photo ID showing Date of Birth (DOB) AND document/passport showing approval to be on island for six months from arrival. Visit https://www.hsa.ky/public-health/coronavirus/ for more info.