Free COVID precaution dose launched in Manipur

Our Correspondent

Imphal, July 15 (EMN): Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Friday launched ‘COVID Vaccine Amrit Mahotsava’ Jan Abhiyan free COVID precaution dose for 18-59 age group at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Imphal.

The vaccine Mahotsava will continue till September 30, 2022 at government vaccination centres. It is organised by the National Health Mission and Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Manipur.

Addressing media persons during the function, Biren Singh said that the state has low COVID vaccination rate and called upon the people of the state who are eligible and above 18 years to take the COVID vaccine.

He said that the state is witnessing some gradual increase in the number of COVID positive cases over the past few days.

It is unfortunate that there are many people who are still reluctant to take the vaccination even when it is provided free, said Biren Singh while highlighting that only 62 percent (14,52,293) has taken the first dose of vaccination and only 51 percent (11,98,953) has taken the second dose.

The chief minister appealed the people to take COVID-19 seriously keeping in mind that the state has already lost more than 2000 precious lives during the past COVID waves despite all efforts, and that another wave of COVID would hugely affect the State.

Further regarding opening of schools, the chief minister observed that since children below 12 years of age are yet to be vaccinated, the government has decided on closure of schools for them for some time and that it could be extended if the need arise.