PRIORITY LIST FOR VACCINE UNDERWAY

The state government is in the process of identifying and compiling lists of people for prioritising administration of Covid-19 vaccine as and when it becomes available. Director of Public Health Dr G. Srinivasa Rao said on Sunday that the first priority will be frontline workers from the health sector and other government departments working directly with people, followed by those aged above 60 years.

Also on the priority list will be people with comorbidities irrespective of their age. These are being prepared as per Central directives, he said.

Dr Rao, and Director of Medical Education Dr K. Ramesh Reddy, addressing a press conference, said that the heavy rains that lashed the city this past week could result in a spurt in water and vectorborne diseases.

To combat this possibility, the department has been running 182 health camps in the flood relief centres in the GHMC area, department officials said.

“We appeal to people to prevent spread of cholera, jaundice, and polio and other waterborne diseases. Boil drinking water before consuming and eat only hot food. Chlorinate drinking water that you get,” they said.

People at camps are screened for their health and for Covid-19 symptoms and are being tested. Anyone who has been in close contact with those found positive, are under observation. It is absolutely safe to go to the flood relief camps. The authorities have also started spraying of sodium hypochlorite solution in vulnerable areas to prevent spread of Covid-19.