EDITORIAL | Vax blitz sites and the covid19 spread

Locally the health ministry, along with its very effective public relations machinery, has been at it ad nauseum, imploring Jamaicans to observe the protocols of masking wearing, hand sanitizing and staying socially distance at least six feet apart.

However, it is fair to say that the images coming from some of these events and general public spaces tell quite the opposite, despite efforts to lower the infection rate.

While within some of these spaces it is neigh impossible to regulate these Covid-19 rules, what we are seeing at the vaccination sites is totally unacceptable by those running show.

Amid large crowds, a good sign despite Jamaica being branded as an anti-vax nation, the protocols are obviously being ignored.

The government and health officials have been quick to classify some events as ‘covid spreaders’ or hotbed since the entertainment industry, which has suffered immensely,  has been given the green light to resume.

But what of these vaccination sites and the organizers' seeming inability to ensure all covid protocols are observed?

We do not expect to hear officials classifying vaccination sites as super spreaders for covid, however, the public demand for improved organization and professionalism isn't asking for too much nor is it beyond the capabilities of the ministry of health.

In fact Old Harbour News believes the situation is quite a simple fix.

There are two logical options: 1) vaccinate by appointments only. Those who do not apply online, for whatever reasons, should register at the vaccination centres where appointment dates are given to return another day. 2) Open vaccination centres at least five days per week if not every day. And 3.) Extend opening hours at every site to a minimum eight hours per day.

The current chaos and confusion reported in a story we carried due to poor management at these vaccination sites will only serve to drive the positivity rate further upward, to use the arguments of the experts. 

And should the government fail to act now, it certainly will lose the moral authority to criticize any individual or group for failing to adhere to the rules in the fight against this disease.