Over 18K health workers to be vaccinated by Jan 29

The health department in Varanasi had set a target to vaccinate 600 health workers on the first day of nationwide Covid-19 vaccination. However, only 393 people were vaccinated while 207 didn’t turn up. Now, the department has decided to give them one more chance and charted out a plan to cover 18,900 health workers in Kashi (both government and private) by January 29, says additional chief medical officer (administration), Varanasi, Dr NP Singh in an interview with HT.

Is there any plan for second chance to the health workers who didn’t turn up for vaccination?

Yes. We have decided to give them one more chance to get first dose of Covid-19 vaccine on January 29. We had set a target to vaccinate 600 health workers on the very first day (Saturday). Of them, 393, around 65.5%, were vaccinated and 207 missed the first opportunity. These health workers will be asked to reach the vaccination centres on January 29.

When will the next vaccinations take place?

Vaccinations are scheduled on January 22, 28 and 29 at 30 centres. Health workers, who are already registered for the vaccination, will be vaccinated.

Has the department set any deadline to give first dose of vaccine to all the registered health workers?

Yes. We have set a target to vaccinate (first dose of vaccine) to all the health workers (18,900) by January 29. Preparations have been made on that line. Second dose of vaccine will be given to all the health workers 28 days after the first dose.

What are the preparations to deal with adverse effects following immunization (AEFI) in case any vaccinated persons develop any problem in next 14 days or so?

We are confident that the vaccine is effective and quite safe. However, in case anyone develops complication, he may call at helpline number 1077 which is functional round the clock. A physician remains on duty there. The doctor will attend his call and give him advice, and if required, an ambulance will be sent to shift the person to the hospital within 15 minutes. Divisional hospital Kabir Chaura and IMS-BHU are equipped with the facility to treat such cases. Safe house (emergency room) has been made at each vaccination centre to deal with such case, if there is any. With the grace of God, all 393 are well.

What is next on the card?

Registration of revenue officials, police personnel, officials of district administration, sanitation workers of nagar nigam and its employees have begun. We have to complete the process by January 25.