The Ministry of Health with the support of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is in the process of developing a communication campaign focused on vaccine hesitancy. To facilitate this process, a series of discussion groups with various stakeholders in of St Kitts & Nevis is being planned to garner feedback on the matter. Areas to be discussed include but are not limited to:

• Reactions toward the COVID vaccine
• Reactions towards routine immunization programmes against diseases such as HPV, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Measles, Mumps, Malaria, Polio, and Tuberculosis
• What are the main sources of information on vaccination and general medical/health?

The Ministry of Health would like to invite representatives from the following groups to participate in this discussion.

Faith-based organisations/associations – Christian Council, Evangelical Council, Seventh-day Adventist Coordinating Council, Community Groups – Rotary, Lions, Sporting Groups – Athletic Association, Football Association, Achievers, Civil Society Organisations/NGOs – Cancer Society, Diabetes Association, Mental Health, Renal Society, Lake Health and Wellbeing, Reach for Recovery and Essence of Hope Foundation, Lupus Hope Foundation – on Thursday 9^th March at 2 p.m. at the NEMA Conference Room.

Persons living with Chronic diseases, Parents of children (girls and boys) in Grade 6, Parents of children between 12 – 17, Persons desirous of travelling to countries overseas where COVID vaccination is an entry requirement, Migrant Communities – Jamaica, Guyana, Santo Domingo, Youth leaders – on Thursday 9^th March at 6 p.m. at the Warner Park Cricket Stadium Media Room.

Care Providers in homes for the elderly (public and private), Nurses, and Doctors – on Friday 10^th March at 10 a.m. at the NEMA Conference Room.

Your involvement is key to the success of this campaign. The Ministry of Health and PAHO thank you in advance for your willingness to support and participate in this important national initiative.