30 November 2021 (CKT)
The Te Marae Ora vaccination team who were back in action on Rarotonga last Saturday (27 November) administered a total of 191 doses of the Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19.
Included in this number were first doses for fourteen 12-15-years-olds and 50 people over the age of 16 years.
In addition, 111 people received their second dose of the vaccine.
Bob Williams, Secretary of Health commented, “I’d like to thank all those who have potentially changed their minds towards being vaccinated, you are providing invaluable protection against this virus for yourself, your family, your friends and the community, meitaki maata. Once these people receive their second dose they will further lift the percentage of our eligible population who are vaccinated.”
Ninety-six percent of the eligible population in the Cook Islands are now fully vaccinated and 99% have had their first vaccine dose.
Yesterday afternoon Te Marae Ora officials met via zoom with their counterparts in New Zealand (NZ Ministry of Health) who confirmed that the supply of vaccines for the country’s third dose of the vaccine will be arriving in Rarotonga on 16 December, dates for the roll-out will be confirmed in the next week.
A third dose is supported by the science which suggests that a course of three doses may be required to achieve long term immunity.
“This is excellent news and ensures that we will have taken every practical measure to protect the Cook Islands people from COVID 19 infection. This third dose will boost people’s protection from serious illness and possible death, even further. Thank you New Zealand for your continued support.” Mr Williams concluded.”
ENDS: For more information, please visit www.health.gov.ck or contact Jaewynn McKay; jaewynn.mckay@cookislands.gov.ck +682 55486