Covid-19 vaccine roll-out in Bermuda has been hit-or-miss, with reports of appointment phone numbers being out of order and limited availability at healthcare facilities. Some residents have faced challenges in booking appointments, while others have managed to secure slots. In the Cayman Islands, the Health Service Authority is offering the vaccine free of charge without the need for appointments, with a higher demand for adult vaccinations compared to paediatric doses.
Over 7 million Americans have received the updated COVID-19 vaccines from Moderna or Pfizer and BioNTech, targeting the XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariant. Distribution of the vaccines began in September, and millions of doses of another updated vaccine from Novavax have also been made available. Despite reports of difficulties in booking appointments or finding shots at no cost, U.S. public health officials remain optimistic and recommend that everyone aged 6 months and older receive the new vaccines.
COVID-19 vaccines are increasingly available in Oregon, with pharmacies and other locations stocking up. However, securing a vaccine appointment may require some planning, as many locations have appointments scheduled a week or two in advance. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the new Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older, provided it has been at least two months since their last COVID-19 vaccine dose. The Oregon Health Authority emphasizes the importance of vaccination to prevent another surge in respiratory viruses this winter. Vaccines are expected to be updated and recommended annually, similar to flu shots.
