NEW DELHI:
People in the 18-59 age group will get free precaution doses of the Covid vaccine at government vaccination centres under a 75-day special drive likely to begin from July 15, official sources said on Wednesday.
The drive, aimed at boosting the uptake of Covid precaution doses, will be held as part of the government’s Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to celebrate the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence, they said.
So far, less than 1 per cent of the target population of 77 crores in the 18-59 age group have been administered the precaution dose. However, around 26 per cent of the estimated 16 crores eligible population aged 60 and above as well as healthcare and frontline workers have received the booster dose, an official source said.
”A majority of the Indian population got their second dose over nine months ago. Studies at ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) and other international research institutions have suggested that antibody levels wane around six months after the primary vaccination with both doses… giving a booster increases the immune response,” the official said.
”The government is therefore planning to start a special drive for 75 days during which individuals aged between 18 and 59 years will be administered precaution doses for free at government vaccination centres starting from July 15,” he said.
more recommended stories
Priyanka Gandhi Wins Debut Election from Wayanad by a Margin of Over 4 LakhKALPETTA:Right from the day the Congress.
India Under Trump 2.0 Could Bolster its Position in Global Supply ChainsNEW DELHI:As Donald Trump returns as.
Priyanka Gandhi Consolidates Massive Lead in Wayanad Lok Sabha BypollKALPETTA:Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra,.
10 Maoists Gunned Down in Encounter with Security Forces in SukmaSUKUMA:In a major operation, at least.
Heavy Rain Likely in TN, Orange Alert Issued for Nov 26CHENNAI:The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) issued.
Manipur: Protester Shot Dead During Clash with Security Forces in JiribamIMPHAL:A protester was shot dead during.
Heavy Rains in TN, Yellow Alert for 18 Districts this WeekendCHENNAI:The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has.
Delhi-NCR’s Air Quality Remains Hazardous for ResidentsNEW DELHI:Delhi-NCR’s air quality remained severely.
Indonesia’s Mt. Ibu Erupts, Triggers Second-highest Aviation AlertJAKARTA:Mount Ibu, located in Indonesia’s North.
Over 5 Lac Elderly Above 70 Enroll for Ayushman Cards; Highest from MP, KeralaNEW DELHI:More than five lakh senior.