Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-Mckenzie sought to reassure persons that prior testing before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine is not required. This follows concerns from persons who are hesitant to take the jab. The CMO was speaking at this week’s COVID-19 media press briefing on Thursday, September 9.

As vaccine hesitancy is still on the rise, one major concern from persons who have reservations, are the rumors surrounding asymptomatic persons who receive the COVID-19 jab, dying. However, according to the CMO, testing prior to vaccination is not required. She noted that according to the World Health Organisation, (W.H.O) it is unnecessary to do prior testing, and says persons with previous COVID-19 infections can also take the jab.

Dr. Bisasor-Mckenzie says a person with an unknown status will not likely become infected after receiving the vaccine. She however implores persons who have been exposed to a COVID-19 positive person to isolate for 14 days before receiving the jab. She also noted that the vaccine and not treat or improve a person who is tested positive for COVID-19.

Dr. Bisasor-Mckenzie also addressed persons who are self-treating at home with worsening symptoms; the CMO insists that they must seek care from a medical practitioner.

More in this CVM Live story from Javine Mclean: