With the availability of COVID-19 vaccines no longer a matter of dire concern, Opposition Leader Mark Golding, says the gear must now shift to the tackling of vaccine hesitancy which remains the “single greatest risk to Jamaica”.

Addressing a People’s National Party press conference on Friday (August 20), Golding emphasised the importance of widespread vaccinations now that vaccine access has improved.

He stated: “It is clear that a comprehensive national vaccination process along with personal discipline in adhering to the social distancing guidelines that we have been living with for a year and a half are the only way that Jamaica will get out of this crisis.”

Referencing the increased access to vaccines which have improved significantly in recent weeks Golding stated, “now that Jamaica finally has a good supply of the vaccine, I am calling on all influencers in our society to shift gear and send the message to our people that we must all take it.”

Noting that “the risks of hospitalisations and deaths are much much greater for those who get COVID without the protection of the vaccine, and with the very contagious Delta COVID-19 variant here, all of us must assume that there is a good chance that we will get it, sooner or later,” he stated, “please protect yourselves, protect your families, protect your friends and loved ones and get vaccinated”.

Reinforcing a point that has been made by Health Minister Dr Chirstopher Tufton on numerous occasions, Golding expressed the importance of “following the science” and “listening to trustworthy sources”.

Highlighting that the COVID-19 pandemic is a national issue that far exceeds the differences that exist due to political affiliation, Golding reiterated his party’s commitment to playing its part in the advancement of the country’s vaccination efforts and willingness to do whatever is needed to overcome the pandemic.