WHO Multimedia Library

Reference ID U275D2B

Headline Trinidad and Tobago: COVID-19 vaccine simulation

Description PAHO/WHO Representative Dr Erica Wheeler (center) and PAHO/WHO Advisor Health Systems Dr Paul Edwards (left) observe the simulated exercise where nurses and doctors stabilize a patient experiencing an anaphylactic reaction at the Siparia District Health Facility in Trinidad and Tobago on 6 March 2021.

As Trinidad and Tobago prepare for their initial delivery of 100,000 to 120,000 doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, a key strategy in preparing and training the healthcare workforce is the use of simulation exercises. This includes the use of different simulation exercises, including discussion based table-top exercises as well as more operational based exercises such as drills. They are used to assist in developing, assessing and testing the functional capabilities of emergency systems, procedures and mechanisms to respond to public health emergencies.

COVID-19 vaccine simulations test planning assumptions and procedures in a safe and constructed environment before national vaccine roll-outs occur. These simulations help to ensure that vaccine roll-outs have the best possible chance of success. Using simulations developed by WHO and COVAX, health workers in Trinidad and Tobago are able to test and practice the planning and logistics of vaccine administration within the specific context of their country. Participants in these exercises are personnel who perform their actual responsibilities and respond as they would in a real situation. They can practice their role within the vaccine roll-out at every stage and identify where the plan and procedures are working well and where it could be improved.

During the vaccination drill conducted at the Siparia District Health Facility in Trinidad, multiple scenarios were simulated at once to test preparedness including: a recipient who was fully decided to take and receive the vaccine, a recipient who was undecided, walk in recipients with no appointments, a recipient with severe reaction, and a recipient who declined being vaccinated.
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Title of WHO staff and officials reflects their respective position at the time the photo was taken.

Asset date 03/06/2021

Country, area, WHO office Trinidad and Tobago

City Siparia

State/Province Siparia District Health Facility

WHO Region AMRO

Consent No

File size 5.43 MB

Visibility class:

Public

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