States and UTs told to make essential preparations for Covid vaccine roll out

Prior to the vaccine roll out, the government of India has asked all the states and UT governments to conduct a Covid vaccination dry run to ensure an effective preparedness.

According to a Health Ministry press release, the dry run is proposed to be conducted in all State Capitals in at least three session sites. Whereas, some States will also include districts that are situated in difficult terrain or have poor logistical support.

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting to review preparedness at session sites for COVID-19 vaccination. The meeting was chaired by Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan with Pr. Secretaries (Health), NHM MDs, and other health administrators of all States/UTs through video conference.

“With the objective of gearing up for the roll-out of COVID19 vaccine across the country, the Central Government has asked all States and UTs to ensure effective preparedness for the vaccine rollout,” the press release reads.

Moreover, the government has also urged the states to procure almost 83 crore syringes. Additionally, bids have also been invited for nearly 35 crore syringes. These syringes will be used for Covid vaccination and also for the Universal Immunization Programme.

The government earlier conducted a two-day dry run in four states — Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, and Punjab.

According to the Health Ministry, each state will plan the dry run in two districts and preferably in different session type settings, for example, district hospital, urban sites, private health facility, rural outreach, etc.