The Ministry of Health and Wellness and the Government of Belize are pleased to announce that Belize will be receiving its first shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine from the Government and people of Barbados.

The donation of 1,000 single-dose Astra Zeneca COVID-19 vaccines will be arriving at the Philip Goldson International Airport by cargo flight tomorrow, February 24, 2021. Representatives of the Ministry of Health and Wellness will be present tomorrow to officially receive the donation.

Hon. Michel Chebat, Minister of Health and Wellness, expresses gratitude on behalf of the Prime Minister of Belize, Hon. John Brice�o, and the people of Belize for the donations that were fast-tracked to arrive almost immediately after the acceptance of an offer from Belize's CARICOM sister country.

Belize continues in bilateral negotiations with other countries to source and buy additional COVID-19 vaccines for the country. The Ministry anticipates as well the arrival of the COVAX vaccines at the end of March or the beginning of April.

The Ministry asks the public´s cooperation to reduce the rate of infections. The public is encouraged to visit the public health facilities or rapid testing sites in their area as advertised. Please continue to follow the Ministry's advice by wearing a mask when in public, staying six feet apart, washing and sanitizing hands often, and staying at home unless conducting essential business.