Thursday 28 Mar 2024

Only 5% in 18-59 age group got booster dose against Covid: Immunisation Officer

Says if vax does not pick up speed, stocks would have to be sent to neighbouring States

THE GOAN NETWORK | AUGUST 18, 2022, 11:56 PM IST

PANAJI

Painting a grim picture as far as precautionary or booster dose is concerned, Immunisation Officer Dr Rajendra Borkar said only 5% of the age group of 18-59 and 52% of the age group of 60 plus have got the booster dose.

“There are around 9 lakh population eligible for the precautionary dose in the age group of 18-59 of which only 5% have got it whereas among the 1.5 lakh eligible population for 60 plus age group, 52% have been vaccinated with the booster dose,” Dr Borkar said.

“In the 15-17 age group, 94% have got their first dose while 82% have got their second dose,” the doctor said and informed that if the vaccination does not pick up speed, the current vaccine stock would have to be transferred to neighbouring states before its shelf life gets over.

Dr Borkar also informed that Corbevax vaccine, which is given for 12-14 years old, can be used as precautionary dose and people can opt for the same.

“Goa was among the first three States to achieve more than 100% coverage as far as first and second dose vaccination was concerned. But now, as for the precautionary dose we are way behind despite the authorities putting in all their efforts to encourage the public on this front. Somehow, we have become complacent,” Dr Borkar stated.

Stating that the precautionary dose is very important in the fight against Covid, Dr Borkar urged the people to come forward to get the dose as it is available free of cost for all age groups in all health centres.

“Vaccinations are available at all health centres on all days, including Sundays and holidays. In spite of that, response is not good. Daily, around 1,000-1,200 turn up to get the booster dose but at this speed it will take another year to achieve cent per cent coverage, and by that time we could land in some trouble,” the doctor.

Further, Dr Borkar said people are giving all sorts of excuses to avoid getting the booster dose. “Some said they have got cured from Covid as well as got two doses, therefore third dose is not needed. Some said they are young enough, some say now there is nothing like Covid, etc.” he informed.

“People gave us all kinds of reasons to avoid taking doses but even those who have taken two or three doses, he or she can still get Covid but the severity will be much less than those who are unvaccinated,” Dr Borkar pointed out.

He added that of the total 3,965 deaths in the State, 56% didn't take a single dose. He appealed to the public to get vaccinated to protect self, near and dear ones, and the community at large.

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