GUWAHATI: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday launched COVID-19 vaccination for children between 12-14 years in Assam, as part of the national drive, at Rukminigaon Balika Vidyalaya High School in Guwahati, stated a press release.
During the drive, the target children group would be provided free vaccination at their respective schools. Those unable to receive the dose in schools would be able to take it in their nearest health centres. The COVID-19 vaccine to be administered would be Corbevax, manufactured by Biological E Limited, Hyderabad. This can be through online registration or through onsite walk-in.
Additionally, all persons above 60 years of age are now eligible for Precaution Dose from Wedenesday, as the condition of comorbidity for this age group has been removed. The Precaution Dose (same as the previous two doses) is to be administered after 9 months (36 weeks) after the date of second vaccination. The Chief Minister urged all eligible beneficiaries to come forward to take the vaccines.
Speaking at the launch programme, the Chief Minister assured all parents that this vaccine is completely safe for their children and there are no side-effects. Though children have naturally higher immunity, they must be inoculated to fight against the different evolving variants of COVID-19, he said.
Advising against taking the vaccines on empty stomach, the Chief Minister urged the schools to prepare midday meals a little early on vaccination days so that the children can be fed before taking the jabs.
Saying that Assam performed exceedingly well in managing all three waves of COVID-19, the Chief Minister informed that 4.36 crore doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been given in the State. He appreciated the efforts of the doctors, nurses and all health workers for making COVID-19 vaccination drive a success in the State.
Health Minister Keshab Mahanta and Dispur MLA Atul Bora also spoke on the occasion, which was attended by the CEM of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, Tuliram Ronghang, and Health Department officials.
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