Unvaccinated healthcare workers and transportation operators get two weeks to take the jab

MINISTER OF HEALTH DR FRANK ANTHONY WEDNESDAY NIGHT ISSUED A
TWO-WEEK ULTIMATUM for healthcare workers, public transportation operators and
conductors to be vaccinated.
“As a result of representations made by various stakeholders to my office on sections of the
COVID- 19 Emergency Measures (No. 20) issued on the 29 th July 2021, the stakeholders
represented to me that healthcare workers, public transport operators, and conductors require
additional time to comply with the Order,” the statement from Minister Anthony said.
In a late-night press release, the Minister explained the government’s decision followed
stakeholder representation on the issue after gazetted order demanded taking the COVID-19 jab
to qualify for entry into government buildings. It also meant, that unvaccinated persons could not
access government services, such as medical attention.
“I have examined the request and wish to announce that healthcare workers, public transport
operators and conductors will be given two weeks to comply with the Order,” he said
There were numerous pushbacks from irate citizens over the government decision, most notably
healthcare workers attached to the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC).
Videos seen by this media house, www.areoundtheregions.com showed numerous vocal
residents demanding that the government immediately end the controversial measure and allow
nurses back into the LHC compound unhindered.
Anthony assured there is enough vaccine available to inoculate unvaccinated adults. He said too
that vaccine for children is expected in shortly.
“I wish to reiterate that the Government of Guyana has secured enough vaccines for the adult
population. Guyanese have a choice of first and second dose AstraZeneca or SinoPharm and first
dose Sputnik V. Additionally, the Pfizer vaccine for our children will soon be available,” he
reiterated.

In addressing widespread vaccine hesitancy in the population, the health minister reminded that
the jab will reduce one’s chances of being infected by the deadly virus.
“I wish to reiterate that the vaccines are safe (and) effective, and if you are fully vaccinated,
it will reduce your chances of infection, hospitalisation and death. Please protect yourself,
your family and your community. Please get vaccinated,” Minister Anthony, a Cuban-
trained medical specialist, pleaded.