The Union Health Ministry has asked states to submit priority population lists that will receive the Covid-19 vaccine first by the end of October, Minister Harsh Vardhan said. The priority population refers to those who are at higher risk of contracting the virus than others. The government is working around the clock to map out a step-by-step vaccine delivery mechanism once they are ready, the minister said, addressing his weekly Sunday Samvaad show.
“Our government is working around the clock to ensure that there is a fair and equitable distribution of vaccines once they are ready. As anywhere else in the world, our government’s top priority is to ensure vaccination for each and every person in the country. There is a high-level committee of experts that examines all aspects of vaccines, ”said the minister.
“The ministry is preparing a format in which the state will provide a list of the priority population to receive vaccinations, especially front-line healthcare workers. We have set a realistic deadline of the end of October to complete this huge exercise. States are also being closely targeted to submit details of cold chain facilities and other infrastructure. Our estimate and goal would be to receive and use 400-500 million doses for 20 million million people by July 2021. All of this is in various stages of completion, ”said Harsh Vardhan.
The concept of priority population exists throughout the world. While older people are at increased risk for Covid-19, those who are dedicated to managing Covid-19 patients are also included in this priority population. China and Russia have begun administering vaccines to their populations. Reports say China is vaccinating government personnel, teachers, supermarket employees, border workers, as well as doctors and other health professionals.
Russian journalists working for two state media outlets will be offered Sputnik V, according to reports.
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