Prime Minister Andrew Holness has declared that only fully vaccinated persons will be allowed to attend government functions and other events that require the government’s approval.

This declaration was made at the official handing over ceremony for the 200,000 doses of the Sinopharm vaccine gifted by the People’s Republic of China on Wednesday, November 24.

“All public gatherings, either staged by the government or would require the approval or endorsement of the government, attendance will be on the basis of being fully vaccinated,” Holness said.

He added that despite the adjustments to the country’s COVID-19 containment measures, his administration cannot ignore the threat that the COVID-19 virus has had on the island and its citizens.

Prime Minister Holness is now imploring the public to get vaccinated as it is the only practical way to restore a sense of normality in Jamaica.

He noted that over time, “we will understand that moving on with our lives means taking the vaccine.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton, pointed out that the arrival of the Sinopharm vaccine would increase the options that are available for Jamaicans.