Fourth wave of COVID-19 hits St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Wilkinson warns

JNF General Hospital Dr Cameron Wilkinson has confirmed the beginning of the fourth wave of the coronavirus pandemic in St Kitts and Nevis. He said the 4th wave is here, and the numbers are rising again, but this should not be a surprise as people were already warned.

The senior medical official said the numbers in all the COVID-19 categories "will continue to rise over the next few weeks, including the one that says death."

While advising the public to get vaccinated, he said the clinics are also open for vaccination, "Go out and give yourself the best protection available which is the vaccine. You are not only doing this for yourself but also to protect those around you," said Dr Wilkinson.

"We should all benefit from good public health, and equally so should all be willing to help maintain it," he added.

He said people who are vaccinated could also test positive; however, they are not at a higher risk. Dr Wilkinson noted the vaccine offers the best protection against severe disease, hospitalization and death.

"We are not helpless. Don't hesitate," noted Dr Wilkinson in a Facebook post.

He said more than 81 percent of the adult population in St Kitts and Nevis is vaccinated, and now more should come forward to receive the jab. He also advised the parents to get their children over 12 vaccinated with the Pfizer dose, emphasizing that vaccine is the only solution to end the pandemic.

"We go out and get vaccinated to protect ourselves and those around us because the vaccine significantly reduces our risk of catching and spreading the most deadly virus that has so far killed over 5.41 million people in under two years," added Dr Wilkinson. He stated if people don't get vaccinated, then the death rate in St Kitts and Nevis will rise eventually, "By being vaccinated you are more likely to have the asymptomatic or mild disease if you get infected. Continue to wear a mask and sanitize, especially if in crowds, but more importantly, go out and get vaccinated,".