Senior Citizen: Show Courage, Get Vaccinated
A79-year-old Labasa man has encouraged his family members to show patriotism, be responsible and get vaccinated.
He said now was the time for every Fijian in this country to be firm and rally to the health experts call for citizens to take the vaccination seriously.
Sakeo Tagaiuca of Korotari, Labasa received his first jab of the COVID-19 AstraZeneca vaccine on July 2 at Saint Mary’s Primary School.
“I didn’t feel any side effects or health problems after taking the vaccine,” Mr Tagaiuca said.
“People are afraid of the vaccine because of the side effects, but let’s be honest every vaccine will have some form of side effects.”
Mr Tagaiuca felt heavy hearted when he witnessed the low number of indigenous Fijians at the vaccination centre to receive a jab.
“Maybe because of their religious beliefs and family pressure,” he said.
“Fiji’s war against this killer virus will never end and our loved ones will always be at risk of dying without vaccination.”
Because he is now in stable health, Mr Tagaiuca said his family members realised the vaccine was safe and were keen on being vaccinated.
“Instead of spreading fear and misinformation, I took my first dose to clarify those claims,” he said.
“Fiji’s adult population must step up to create awareness on the positivity of being vaccinated.”
He commended efforts by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the Government as the COVID-19 infections created widespread fear and an increase in fatalities.