PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis made a strong appeal for all citizens to take the COVID-19 vaccine yesterday, insisting the country’s economic rebound hinged on widespread administration of the jab.

In a nationally televised address, Dr Minnis said when a large percentage of Bahamians are vaccinated, more of the country will be able to open up, adding this would spark more jobs among other economic positives.

He said vaccinations will likely be a requirement by other countries to travel overseas and that cruise lines may also have the same stipulation.

While his address did not reveal specifically when the first vaccinations of 100,000 doses will arrive here, the Prime Minister said the government was expected to receive more details on the shipment today.

Dr Minnis said: “Vaccines are critical to ending the pandemic. In The Bahamas, there will not be a government mandate requiring you to take a vaccine.”

“However, we strongly urge all who are eligible to get vaccinated.

“I will take the vaccine. I will urge family and friends to take the vaccine. By getting vaccinated you will help the country to return to a greater level of normalcy.

“By getting vaccinated you will also help our economy to recover faster. When a large percentage of Bahamians are vaccinated, we will be able to responsibly open up even more.

“More economic activity will be possible, leading to more jobs, more working hours, more family income, more small business activity and a return of more tourists in the months ahead.

“It is also quite possible that being vaccinated will be a requirement by other countries for you to travel overseas. Other countries may not allow you to enter their borders unless you have proof of vaccination.

“We are hearing that cruise lines may require their passengers to show that they have been vaccinated. Proof of vaccination may be one of the critical measures in helping the tourism industry to bounce back around the world.

“As a leading tourism destination, we must play our part and set an example for the world.”

He reiterated that vaccine administration in The Bahamas will be a huge operational and logistical challenge, but a plan to this effect is nearing completion.

“The National COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan is in the final stages of completion in preparation for the arrival of the first batch of AstraZeneca vaccines. The AstraZeneca vaccine will be administered in two doses.

“These COVID-19 vaccines will be available free of charge. Between eight and 10 approved vaccination sites have been identified on New Providence. This includes drive-thru sites.

“Vaccination sites have also been identified on Grand Bahama and the Family Islands.

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