In an effort to efficiently carry out as many second dose vaccinations this weekend as possible, the Ministry of Health and Wellness will host a special blitz at the National Arena on Saturday (June 5), from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

The blitz is intended to provide the second dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to the more than 600 Jamaicans who received their first dose of the vaccine in March and have a June 5 second dose date.

In a statement released on Thursday (June 3), the ministry indicated it would communicate to these persons by way of text message and phone call, to confirm their appointment dates.

Jamaicans who fall in this special group are reminded to take a government-issued identification or a letter from a justice of the peace as well as the vaccination card that was issued upon receipt of their first jab.

Persons who are 65 years and older are allowed to be accompanied by one caregiver at the vaccination site.

The health ministry said the public should be reminded that they are not fully vaccinated unless they have received their second dose of the vaccine, and, as such, are still required to follow infection control and prevention protocols.

This includes wearing a mask, sanitising, social distancing, handwashing and following the measures outlined in the Disaster Risk Management Act.

In the meantime, first dose appointments continue to be available to Jamaicans 50 years and older, healthcare workers, members of the Jamaica Constabulary and Defence Forces, Jamaica Fire Brigade and staff members from the Passport, Immigration Citizenship Agency, Jamaica Customs Agency and the Department of Correctional Services are eligible to be vaccinated based on the implementation plan.

Persons who fall within the current priority group and wish to be vaccinated can make an appointment through the ministry’s website or through the National Vaccination Hotline at 888-ONE-LOVE (888-663-5683).