Strict protocol holds the key; 6.20 lakh teens receive first dose of Covid-19 vaccine

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Around 6.20 lakh teens (15-18 years) got the Covid-19 vaccine in the state against the target of 20 lakh. The drive started on January 3. The stipulated seven days could not meet the target for various reasons. Now there is no way out but to extend the vaccination target.

Sources in the Health Department claimed to have got good responses from schools even though it was not that encouraging in some areas. Hesitation persists among the guardians in some areas.

The measures announced by the government largely depend on their implementation. According to departmental sources, the onus of obeying the Covid-19 protocols lies with the public as man-to-man checking of every person is not possible.

Say, when a person boards a city bus and shows his double-vaccine dose certificate, the conductor should be capable enough to read and know the content. Who will check people's vaccine status in daily markets? Of course, malls, cinema halls, restaurants etc., can ascertain the vaccination status of the visitors.

Most people do not wear a mask in the state, let alone maintain social distancing. Only random, frequent and rigorous checking done to check drunk-driving on December 31 may do something tangible in the current situation.

The Covid-19 cases are the highest in Guwahati. Since there is no restriction on inter-district movement, the virus will spread to districts or areas where the pandemic is under control.

Sources say that medical staff members are busy with vaccination, contract tracing, testing etc. Hence, the responsibility to check public places lies with district and police administrations. However, that is not visible on the ground. It is high time the administration did something tangible before it is too late.

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