The Vanuatu Government knows how destructive the consequences of the COVID-19 would be to its citizens if necessary and sufficient preparations are not done in advance. Therefore, ensuring sound mechanisms are in place is crucial prior to rolling out the vaccination exercise.

Preparations are underway for officials and healthcare workers in making sure that everything is well established when the vaccines show up. This are monitoring developments surrounding COVID-19 strain of corona virus. Over 20 senior health officials from Vanuatu’s six provinces are in Port Vila, attending a training on COVID-19 vaccinations and disseminating correct information to communities. The Government of Vanuatu has been working closely with the Ministry of Health and responsible authorities across the province to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

National Health Immunization Coordinator, Simon Samson said their main challenge at the moment is to make the people in the islands confident and comfortable to receive the vaccine.The one-week training includes participants from Provincial Superintendents, Health Promotion Unit and Immunization officers who are better equipped and have the capacity to carry out vaccinations. The planning is underway in making sure urban, rural and remote communities have the support, resources and supplies they need to manage the spread of COVID-19 and have long term care facilities as well as in the community.

Vaccination is important in order for Vanuatu to maintain its COVID-free status. The vaccination roll out is expected to be carried out in provinces of SHEFA, TAFEA and SANMA, targeting individuals on the front line. The first batch of AstraZeneca vaccine is expected in the coming weeks.

For business continuity, having a vaccine in place is essential. It is vital for the government to react as quick as possible in order to ensure healthy business operations, and sustain momentum in providing services to the people and supporting growth recovery initiatives.