PANJIM: As the State witnessed a low turnout for the COVID-19 vaccination drive, which kicked-off from January 16, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said the “casual” attitude has led to slow progress of the immunisation programme.
As on date, 15,000-odd health and frontline workers have been administered the vaccine as against the registered figure of over 30,000 workers.
Speaking to media persons, Rane sought flexibility in identifying target groups and individuals for the vaccination programme, saying if some eligible persons enrolled on the central vaccination portal skip the designated appointment, the vaccine can be administered to others instead.
The Health Minister said the government finds itself helpless, despite all efforts and awareness, if the enrolled health and frontline workers don’t turn up for the vaccination.
“What can be done? We are helpless. We take all steps. We are sending out messages, but ultimately it is on them (worker). Many times people take it casually and don’t turn up. It is their casual attitude. Then he loses his chance,” Rane said.
“It is voluntary and hence we cannot force it. But actually it is in his or her interest, because it is supposed to be a good vaccine. It is scientifically proven,” he added. The minister further said a little bit of flexibility in selection of persons for vaccination would make the drive more progressive.
“Some people are not taking vaccines. You cannot force someone to take vaccines, even if their name is registered. I think we have to spread the spectrum, so that we do not waste the efforts. If someone does not come, we should be in a position to give someone else the vaccine,” Rane said.
As per current procedure, in the first two phases, only the health and frontline workers, who are registered on Central government portal, are allowed to participate in the drive, on a particular day.
