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The United Kingdom last week started administering the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine produced by the pharmaceutical giant, Pfizer. The first person to be injected was 91-year-old Margaret Keenan who said it was the “best early birthday present.” The vaccine is said to provide up to 95% protection against COVID-19.
It is a grave understatement in saying this global pandemic has turned the world upside down and affected our lives in ways untold and immeasurable. Many have lost loved ones to the disease, once thriving businesses and busy streets have become deserted, and people recoiled to their homes. The virus has taken a toll on countries and affected the world interconnected economy. 2020 has been a tough year.
Infections and deaths continue to rise around the world and Guyana is not immune from both as the government continues to flounder in finding an effective way to manage the pandemic. This publication has repeatedly argued the wisdom of taking a national approach, working with the Opposition and all stakeholders because the virus does not care about the partisan petty politics nor discriminate against any.
The socioeconomic fallout from the pandemic is yet to be accurately quantified but what everyone knows is their quality of life has had to face significant adjustments. Persons became prisoners in their own homes, could not visit their loved ones, could not fly because airports were locked down or cannot enjoy the customary daily activities of living. The mental and other health consequences of people whether infected, know someone who was or is, or not infected only time will tell.
In an active and free-spirited world people have grown tired of the restrictions and some have rebelled making the spread harder to control and deaths resulting from. Thus, in this festive season it is more than a gift to know that the Pfizer vaccine considered safe by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United Kingdom is now available for use and distribution. It is a relief! Pfizer’s vaccine stands out against Russia and China’s vaccine because it has undergone large scale testing and met the rudimentary phased requirements.
The United States started their injection on Monday, December 14. Other countries such as Canada and Saudi Arabia have also approved and started using the vaccine. The World Health Organisation advises it is “working with partners around the world to help coordinate key steps in this process, including to facilitate equitable access to safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines for the billions of people who will need it.” Like every medication and vaccine there are side effects, and it is expected local clinicians will provide the necessary education to minimise risks.
First on the agenda for those needing the injection are vulnerable groups such as the aged and those with preexisting medical conditions (comorbidities) and frontline workers such as those in health care and long-term facilities (assisted living and skilled nursing homes). Data in developed countries have shown the Brown (Native American/Amerindians, Asians and Hispanic) and Black (Africans) demographics are within the high-risk category. Guyana has not published data identifying our vulnerable demographics. Thus, it is fair to assume the Ministry of Health will rely on some scientific data as against guess work in targeting first those who need the vaccine most.
It should be said the vaccine does not prevent getting the virus but is a useful tool in fighting the pandemic. The United States Centre for Infection and Disease Control advises that “Vaccines work with your immune system so your body will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed.” It therefore means that persons will have to continue to observe all the COVID-19 guidelines to prevent contracting the disease and spreading it to others. Note well, the vaccine is not a cure. There still exists the need to observe the protocols of washing hands, wearing a mask and social distancing.
Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony did say Guyana will administer COVID-19 vaccines once they are available. It would be preferred if the vaccine used is the ones that have undergone widespread testing and met international testing guidelines. It is hope too that the government puts aside its discriminatory tendencies and ensures foremost those most vulnerable receive the vaccine and then eventually all. Citizens must be vigilant to ensure they are not excluded based on geography, race, class, political association and all the other nonsensical reasons this government uses to deprive.
