Vaccine shortage raises concern

Mangaluru, April 29, 2021: While the government is gearing up for vaccinating the 18-45 age group from next month, people, especially those who are waiting for their second dose, have expressed their concern over the shortage of vaccines.

While the registration for the 18-45 age group on the Co-WIN site received a record response, it was not the same when the government had started vaccinating the 45 and above age group.

While it slowly picked up, especially after the country witnessed the second wave, now people are reporting a shortage of vaccination.

“My parent is due for 2nd vaccine dose but no availability in Udupi. What 2 do when the time-line is done? Do they begin again? How irresponsible of not considering any of these things,” Dixon D’Costa tweeted.

“There is a shortage of vaccine in many places of Dakshina Kannada district too. Many of my relatives who took the first dose are now waiting for the second one,” Ganesh, an agriculturist told The Canara Post.

Officials agree that there is a limited supply of vaccines to the district. As there is a limited supply, the district administration has taken several measures.

With the limited stock, the district administration is giving priority to those who are awaiting the second dose.
“We have stopped on the spot registration. Only those who have registered online will be provided vaccination. The district administration is taking all necessary measures,” Health department officials said.

Former Minister Pramod Madhwaraj too has raised his concern over the situation and has asked the officials and government to take necessary action.