Caribbean Immigrant Nurse Who Took First COVID-19 Vaccine Wants To See More Vaccinated Globally

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Dec. 15, 2021: The Caribbean immigrant nurse who gained global recognition after becoming the first person in the US to take the COVID-19 vaccine, says she wants to see more people vaccinated across the US and the world.

Jamaican born nurse, Sandra Lindsey, who has since received a booster shot, told the PBS NewsHour that part of the effort must be grounded in health equity, narrowing disparities in access to the vaccine, hearing people’s concerns and answering their questions.

She noted that she initially had questions about the vaccine but she did her research, listened to the experts and found information on “reputable websites” before deciding to get the shot.

More than a year later, Lindsey’s message is that “inaction is not an option.”

“We cannot continue to live like this,” she told PBS, adding that she is now thrilled to be able to play with her grandson without wearing a mask and she cannot wait until its his turn to get vaccinated.

Just about 19 percent of Jamaicans in Jamaica are currently vaccinated.