100% Vaccinated and Christmas Cancelling Surge: The Gibraltar Situation
Gibraltar, the British territory situated on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula is a tiny, compact place at just 2.6 square miles. Bordered to the north by Spain Gibraltar is the most protected place on the planet as 100% of its population have been immunized against COVID-19—predominantly with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine known as BNT162b2. But in a situation that seems to play out over and over despite full vaccination a serious surge of SARS-CoV-2 infections has Gibraltarians cancelled Christmas events as residents are “strongly” discouraged from having guests over during this traditionally celebrated time despite universal vaccination status. This is due to a government edict that what started as a few breakthrough cases has quickly “become even more exponential in the last few days” leading to re-activated public health rules to stop transmission. A confluence of factors are likely involved but a fundamental culprit appears to be the waning effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine or its “durability.”
As the government announced recently with 359 active COVID-19 cases including 5 hospitalizations which mirrors a general surge of cases throughout Europe. Since the onset of the pandemic this British territory of 34,000 people reports 6,634 COVID-19 cases with 98 deaths.
Ranked as the most vaccinated spot on the planet, back in April the Wall Street Journal celebrated that life was getting back to normal thanks to the universal vaccines. A majority of the vaccination has been with the mRNA-based BNT162b2 from Pfizer-BioNTech. However, as TrialSite has learned from several studies, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine wanes in effectiveness over time. By month 6 the durability of the vaccine is in question and after month seven one study revealed there was negligible benefit. Hence why the intense focus on boosters in many wealthy nations.
Christmas Cheer Gives Way to Pandemic Protection
So many people here were looking forward to a normal holiday season. Unfortunately one would have hoped that with a 100% vaccinated population Christmas 2021 would be not only merry, but sociable. But unfortunately COVID-19 breakthrough cases lead the government here to cancel a number of functions including official Christmas parties, official receptions and similar gatherings, reports the government.
The Government strongly advises against any large informal social events, parties or receptions being held over at least the next four weeks while the vaccine booster program is rolled out. It will also become necessary at this point to make sure that the use of official premises is carefully scrutinized and where necessary events are postponed to a later date.
Pfizer Booster Campaign
The COVID-19 booster vaccination campaign is currently underway for the over 40s, health and care workers and other vulnerable groups. Members of the public are strongly encouraged to register their interest online to receive a booster vaccine as they are rolled out.
Health Minister POV
Minister for Health, the Hon Samantha Sacramento, said: ‘The drastic increase in the numbers of people testing positive for COVID-19 in recent days is a stark reminder that the virus is still very prevalent in our community and that it is the responsibility of us all to take every reasonable precaution to protect ourselves and our loved ones. The vaccination program for 12-15 year old youth and the booster vaccination program are now underway—apparently Gibraltar received 4680 more doses this week. Everyone who is eligible for a vaccine or a booster is strongly encouraged to take up the offer when they are called.”
New Public Health Guidance Given Surge
Meet in open outdoor spaces where possible and to pay attention to ventilation where it is not. When people are meeting indoors, a window should be open for at least 10 minutes every hour.
Wear a mask where it is required. This remains a great way to protect yourself, customers, clients, friends and family members.
Maintain some physical distance when greeting. Shaking hands, kissing, hugging and close forms of endearment increase your exposure to viruses.
Take responsibility when hosting an event or occasion to ensure all guests are safe. We are all responsible for our own health and wellbeing, but as a host, you are also taking on the obligation and responsibility to protect others.
Clean your hands regularly to protect you and others from germs. Do so as often as you can. Use soap and water or 70% alcohol gel. Encourage guests to do the same.
Take note of those who remain in close proximity to you. Be ready to provide this information if asked by the Contact Tracing Bureau.
Risk assess all and any events. The main issue of concern will be the mix of those people attending. If there are significant numbers of people present, or expected to attend, who come from outside Gibraltar, it is important to consider that they may not be vaccinated or that they might be incubating/ carrying the virus. The size of the group and the density of the setting must be considered alongside other precautions.
Masks continue to be one of the most effective methods of reducing transmission
Rise in active COVID-19 cases – Public urged to be cautious and reduce mixing - 845/2021
