Team Herald
PANJIM: Health Secretary Ravi Dhawan has said there is no issue if people from other States of the 18-44 age groups are getting their vaccines in Goa.
He was responding to a query from media and when pointed out that the State government purchases vaccines for the local population, Dhawan said that all State governments are purchasing vaccines and so the issue doesn’t arise as it is the Centre, which has put in place the mechanism for States to receive vaccine doses.
He emphasised that there is no discrimination against people seeking to get vaccinated in Goa just how Goa doesn’t discriminate against patients who get admitted in hospitals for COVID treatment or those who seek COVID testing.
When pointed out that the slots available for booking appointments are getting filled quickly, Dhawan said that the Cowin portal operates the same way here as it does in neighbouring States, referring to how it is accessible to all.
He added that the response to the vaccination programme amongst the 18-44 age group has been great while there are still a large section of people who are aged 45 and above who have still not come forward to take the vaccine.
He also revealed that the second consignment of 36,580 vaccine doses for the 18-44 group from Serium Institute of India is expected to arrive in Goa either by the last week of May or the first week of June.
However, earlier in the day the State Immunisation Officer, Dr Rajendra Borkar has asked the government to intervene in the matter of people from outside the State, booking vaccination slots in Goa for the 18-44 age group.
Speaking to media persons, Dr Borkar stated that he has informed the government about such incidents and that he has requested the government to take appropriate action.
