Team Herald
PANJIM: The State government might have to wait till June to roll-out vaccination for the age group of 18-45, as the Serum Institute of India (SII) has communicated to supply Covishield vaccine, only after third week of this month. As against the State order for five lakh doses, SII has approved invoice for 32,872 doses only for now.
On the other hand, State has around 2.40 lakh doses available for vaccinating those above 45 years and the frontline workers.
Addressing media persons on Sunday, Health Secretary Ravi Dhawan said that though the State had placed order to SII for five lakh doses with complete advance payment, the company has forwarded an invoice only for 32,872 doses.
“However, as of now we have not received any doses,” he said adding that the State has already communicated to the Central government for intervention so that vaccine can be received and immunization can start.
“SII has said that due to their prior commitment with the Government of India, they will not be able to supply the vaccine till third week of May,” Dhawan added.
Responding to the question, IAS office said that State had also approached Bharat Biotech, who responded saying they will come back to us with the quantity they can supply to us and by when.
“They are also yet to communicate back. But government has in-principle taken a decision to place order for Covaxin, if the company agrees and comes back with the proposal,” he said.
The State government had last month placed order for 5 lakh vaccine dose with the SII. The Serum Institute had tentatively priced its vaccine at Rs 400. The State government has decided to provide vaccine doses in the age group of 18-45 free of cost.
