More islanders vaccinated; no local COVID-19 infections reported on Ambergris Caye

As more people in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, get the AstraZeneca jab against COVID-19, island health authorities report zero cases among the local population. However, two visitors/tourists are in quarantine in San Pedro after being detected with COVID-19.
One of these persons was confirmed with the virus upon arrival to the country and the other upon departure. According to Dr. Canul from Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, the individuals are placed in isolation ten to 14 days before being re-tested in these cases. He explained that the isolation takes place at the resort the patient was to stay in during their visit. The hotel is notified of the situation so staff can follow strict guidelines.
Dr. Canul indicated that the number of islanders who have visited the flu clinic to be tested for COVID-19 is low. He encourages anyone suspecting that they might have the virus to visit the Mar de Tumbo flue clinic for testing. He also asked residents to remain vigilant and continue following the safety protocols to avoid an outbreak of the deadly virus.
Vaccine Rollout in San Pedro
The vaccination campaign on the island has seen a steady number of persons getting the vaccine. Dr. Canul said that on a typical day (half day), they average 80 to 90 persons. When the vaccine is offered in the morning and afternoon, up to 180 persons show up for their jab. Currently, around 3,190 residents have been vaccinated with their first dose, and a little over 200 have received their second. Dr.Canul said that only minor side effects had been reported.
The vaccine becomes available after registering through this google online form https://cutt.ly/UbGykyn If for some reason people find it difficult to sign in by using this form or they do not have access to the internet. They can visit the San Pedro Town Council, where someone will assist them in registering for the vaccine.
Second dose requirements
After the first dose, the second one will be administered after eight to 12 weeks. When someone is scheduled for their second jab, they are asked to bring a document of identification, preferable the one used for the first dose along with their vaccination card to verify the exact date of the first jab.
Dr. Canul stated that the second dose would be available to those who received their first dose in another country. They will have to follow the same procedure by producing their document of identification and vaccination card. The doctor made it clear that pregnant women should not take the jab. If someone learned to be pregnant after their first dose, they are asked to take the second vaccine after giving birth.
The efficacy of the AstraZeneca vaccine is said to be up to 90% or even prevent the disease. However, there is still a chance that you can get infected with the virus after vaccinated and not develop any signs. “You might experience any symptoms or have severe symptoms, but you can still pass it on to somebody else who has not been fully vaccinated, causing a problem to everyone,” said Dr. Canul. Thus, he recommends those who have been vaccinated to wear their masks, proper hygiene, and practice social distancing.
The current vaccination rollout shows that almost 48,000 Belizeans have received the vaccine. The Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to advise people not to lower their guard, as COVID-19 is still around us.