Several medical supplies and equipment were donated to the Ministry of Health and Wellness and will be distributed to facilities across the island, in efforts to help in mitigating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in Jamaica is the Pan American Health Organization, (PAHO) and the Center for Disease Control, (CDC).

While vaccination is at the forefront of public discussion, the CDC Chief of Mission John McIntyre, says the donation is another combative solution to fighting the pandemic. With the Health Ministry facing criticism over its handling of the vaccination program in recent days, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Juliet Cuthbert Flynn says the Ministry is working to fix some challenges next year.

While the big question in the public asks when the new batch of Pfizer vaccines will arrive, Mr. McIntyre assures that it is coming. Until then, the donation, valued at 59 million Jamaican dollars will help in COVID-19 response efforts. Included in the donation are satellite phones, VHF radios, cell phones, and a minibus. Some items will remain at the PAHO office on the UWI Mona Campus while others will be donated to the National Public Health Laboratory.

More in this CVM Live story from Jhanielle Powell: