Guyana launches first-ever National ‘Flu Vaccine’ programme

In a historic step for Guyana’s healthcare system, the Ministry of Health on Friday launched the first National Influenza Vaccine Programme. The initiative, introduced first at the Eccles Health Centre, is aimed at reducing the spread of influenza, saving lives, and strengthening national health security. The vaccine will be administered annually to priority groups, including pregnant women, children under 15, the elderly, and healthcare workers.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, said Guyana was able to procure 15,000 doses which expire in one year. The flu season typically begins in August and lasts until the end of the year.

Registered Nurse/Midwife Tenisha Hope was the first to receive the vaccine, marking the official rollout.

“This moment marks a major step in strengthening our health care system, protecting our most vulnerable and aligning Guyana with the global best practices in disease prevention,” Dr Anthony said.

The Health Minister state that influenza affects about one billion people worldwide each year, with three to five million developing severe illness and up to 650,000 dying annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

“Influenza is an acute viral respiratory disease, mainly caused by influenza A and B viruses. The challenge is that the composition of the virus changes every year, which is why annual vaccination is necessary,” Dr. Anthony explained.

He highlighted Guyana’s recent progress in influenza surveillance, including participation in the WHO FluNet reporting system and contribution of viral samples to develop vaccines for Guyana.

“We’ve already sent samples from Guyana that were used to formulate this year’s vaccine, meaning Guyana is actively contributing to the global fight against influenza,” the Health Minister said.

The Minister assured the public of the safety of the vaccine, noting that side effects are generally mild, such as slight fever or soreness at the injection site.

“The benefits of protection far outweigh the minor discomfort.

“This is not just another health initiative. It is a comprehensive step to strengthen our healthcare system, safeguard vulnerable populations, and save lives,” Dr Anthony said.

Meanwhile, Health Systems and Services Advisor for PAHO/WHO, Dr. Garoma Denbeli during brief remarks noted that influenza is a highly contagious but preventable infectious disease.

He applauded Guyana’s efforts to tackle the virus and reiterated PAHO/WHO’s support in the rollout of the programme across the country.