The Health Ministry will begin its flu vaccination campaign on Monday September 16th 2024.

The flu season usually runs from October in one year to May the following year, with a peak in cases usually noted in the period December to March.

Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh told a media conference today that T&T’s stock of vaccines arrived last week, which was earlier than expected.

He also reminded that the flu shot is a seasonal vaccine and not an annual one, as it is administered during the flu season.

For the upcoming flu season, 75,000 doses have been procured at a cost of US$4.45 per dose.

These will be available at all health centres free of charge.

The Minister also got things started by rolling up his sleeve to be administered a shot.

The Ministry is urging eligible persons to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

In particular are those belonging to the following high-risk groups:

• Children aged 6 months to 5 years.
• Adults 60 years of age and over.
• Pregnant women.
• Persons with Non-Communicable Diseases – e.g. Diabetes, Hypertension, Heart Disease – regardless of age.
• Persons with compromised immune systems – e.g. persons with Lupus, certain Cancer patients.
• Persons with chronic respiratory illnesses – e.g. Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
• Healthcare workers.