Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases have reduced significantly across Maharashtra, and the state government has been conducting vaccination camps to administer vaccines, spread awareness and inform the citizens about the importance of vaccines. However, reports released by the state health department reveals that only 39 per cent citizens in Maharashtra have been administered with both the doses of vaccines.
It is being said that more than 9 million people in the state have skipped taking the second dose of COVID vaccines, of which 1.5 million include those who missed Covaxin and 7.5 million skipped Covishield. Considering this, the concerned departments have been asked to prepare a detailed district-wise list of the citizens who did not take the second COVID dose voluntarily.
Experts stated that negligence and misconceptions about the vaccines are the reason for the delay. Vaccine hesitancy has been a common problem among the citizens. Experts state that officials from the government will have to strengthen the awareness campaigns. Besides that, reaching out the citizens during the due date of second COVID dose is necessary and motivating them to the nearest centers will help in increasing the number of vaccinations. Misconceptions regarding vaccines will have to reduce, and with the availability of vaccines, this is a good opportunity for the state government and respective district officials to vaccinate a majority of citizens.
Acting upon the same, immunisation officers from all districts have been instructed to coordinate with the citizens. Plans made during the pre-COVID days have been activated and focus is being given on vaccinating maximum number of citizens. Similar plans as per ‘Mission Indradhanush’ will be taken where officials will plan door-to-door visits, council citizens, and facilitate vaccination. Open areas, educational institutions, etc. will be used to conduct camps.