SHILLONG, Jan 9: Meghalaya is ready for immunization as the Centre gets set to roll out the COVID-19 vaccines on January 16.
“We are waiting for the Centre to send us the vaccines. We are otherwise ready,” Health Minister, AL Hek, said on Saturday.
He said the vaccines were to be dispatched to the state by the Centre earlier but some issues had cropped up. “We are hoping to get the vaccines soon,” he said.
The Minister said all logistics will be provided by the Centre and the state government’s responsibility will be limited to transporting the vaccines.
On the apprehension of some people about safety issues, Hek said, “Since the vaccines are new and they relate to health, it is normal that some people will have some apprehension. But I am sure they will accept the vaccines as time rolls by.”
Mawlai MLA, PT Sawkmie, said people should not doubt safety stating that the vaccines passed through several tests. “I will immunize myself as and when the vaccines are available,” he said.
The first to get the shots will be the healthcare workers and the frontline workers – around 25,000 in Meghalaya.
A Shillong-based senior cop, who did not wish to be named, said as a frontline worker, it is his responsibility to get vaccinated.
Ranju Malakar, a two-wheeler mechanic in the city, too said he would be happy to get vaccinated. He said he has no worries stating that the entire world will be vaccinated.
College lecturer Moushumi Chakraborty said it is natural that there will be some safety concerns. “Without the vaccine, we will remain susceptible and with vaccine, we hope to be safe,” she said.
Dalyn Iawsai, a lawyer, said she will take the shots with prayers that the vaccines are safe.
Shehnaz Khan, a housewife, said the situation warrants everyone to get vaccinated. “I hope the vaccines are safe and good enough to drive away the virus,” she added.