Ministry slams `misinformation’ about vaccines and death of Gem Narine

Serjonie ‘Gem’ Narine
Serjonie ‘Gem’ Narine

The Ministry of Health has condemned what it says was “patent misinformation” being peddled in relation to the COVID-19 vaccines and the death this week of Region Ten RDC Councillor, Serjonie ‘Gem’ Narine.

In a statement today, the Ministry categorically rejected as “mischievous and malicious, unsubstantiated claims” on social media that Narine died after taking the vaccine.

“Ms. Narine was not a recipient of any of the three COVID-19 vaccines being administered by the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Health.

“The Ministry is of the view these fabrications are part of a coordinated whisper campaign by political elements, particularly in Region Ten, to derail the Government’s vaccination programme and stymie our successes in responding to the pandemic.

“We wish to state clearly that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and call on persons to not fall prey to these fallacious claims and be dissuaded from being vaccinated.

“The Ministry of Health is encouraging all Guyanese 18 years and older to visit a vaccination site in their community and get inoculated as soon as possible. These vaccines and other measures implemented by the Government are the only ways in which we can beat the pandemic”.