07 January 2022
A report identifying the vaccine status of positive COVID-19 cases in Jersey has been published today.
The report provides statistics of positive cases in Islanders aged 12 and over between July and November 2021, and outlines whether those cases were unvaccinated, had one dose, or had two doses (double dose vaccinated) of a COVID-19 vaccine.
The data highlights that unvaccinated Islanders are more likely to test positive for COVID-19 than those who have had two or more doses. More recent data in November suggests that unvaccinated Islanders were approximately three times more likely to test positive than those who had been double vaccinated.
The results shown in the report are in line with controlled clinical trials and data from other jurisdictions.
The vaccine status of Islanders in hospital with COVID-19 has not yet been published as it conflicts with patient confidentiality. A feasibility assessment is currently being carried out to explore whether there is any option of reporting this data in a way that is meaningful, accurate and maintains patient confidentiality.
Director of Public Health, Professor Peter Bradley, said: "The report we have published today demonstrates how individuals who are either not vaccinated at all, or are not up to date with their vaccination schedule are more likely to get a positive COVID-19 result when tested.
"The information this data provides us is particularly important as we move through the fourth wave and continue to fight the pandemic. The data provided in the report is what we expected and is in line with data from other jurisdictions around the world; it reiterates the importance of vaccination and supports our Public Health guidance to Islanders. I hope that this evidence will encourage more Islanders to come forward for their vaccines."
Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Richard Renouf, said: "I am pleased that this data has been collated and we have been able to put together this report that re-emphasises our strong recommendation to all Islanders aged 12 and over to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
"All vaccine eligible Islanders are welcome to walk-in to Fort Regent's Vaccination Centre without a booked appointment any day of the week, to get their first, second, or booster dose.
"If you have not yet had your first dose, it is not too late, and your vaccine is waiting for you. It is important that Islanders get up-to date with their vaccination schedule in order to reduce the spread of infection in the workplace, community and at home. Vaccination remains our best defence against the virus so ensuring you are fully vaccinated, or on your way to becoming fully vaccinated, in order to reduce the impact of waning immunity is absolutely vital."
Islanders are reminded that booster doses are available for all adults aged 18 and over, and second doses are available to Islanders aged 12 and over. Walk-ins are currently available, but Islanders can book an appointment to secure a preferable date and time. Appointments can be booked at gov.je/vaccine.
gov.je