Prioritise vaccines for IOM nursery staff, teachers & emergency services

Prioritise vaccines for IOM nursery staff, teachers & emergency services
Why this petition matters

Nursery staff, teachers and emergency workers often cannot socially distance from the public they are serving. They are required to make physical contact with numerous individuals on a daily basis. Previous lockdowns have not required the closure of schools, nurseries or the emergency services. These specific key workers are therefore required to continue working during outbreaks and provide their care directly to the public. They are unable to use physical barriers such as plastic shields, as found in shops or on public transport, or even wear face masks due to the nature of their work. Unlike healthcare staff and carers who have already had their vaccines, these service providers have not received their vaccines yet. We understand that the vulnerable should be vaccinated first. However, we wish for these currently unprotected and exposed key workers to be prioritised next, prior to the general public. Should another outbreak occur, having these individuals vaccinated will not only protect them, but will also benefit the wider population who require their services.