A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced to begin Covid vaccination of children, the Odisha government on Sunday said that preparations have already begun in the state for the inoculation of teens above 15 years. Director of Health Services, Bijay Mohapatra said that already steps have begun for collection of district-wise data of the eligible population in the age group of 15 to 18 years.
“PM Modi has announced for vaccination of children above 15 years and booster dose for the frontline workers. We will take appropriate measures for the vaccination as per the SOP issued,” said Mohapatra.
Mohapatra said that there will not be problem in carrying out the scheduled vaccination drive as earlier the State was successful in inoculating the eligible beneficiaries.
On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced vaccination for children above 15 years which is set to commence from January 3, 2022. Similarly, amid surge in cases of Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, the Centre has also given a go-ahead for administering booster doses for the frontline workers.
In his address to the nation, the PM on Saturday also announced ‘precautionary’ (third) dose for healthcare and frontline workers will be administered from January 10. Those above 60 years of age with comorbidities will be eligible for ‘precautionary’ dose from January 10 on the recommendation of their doctors.
Meanwhile, Bharat Biotech's Covaxin has received approval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) for emergency use for kids aged between 12-18 years.