New Delhi: The central government has made it clear that the booster vaccine is to be given to health care and frontline workers and people aged 60 years and older, similar to the first two doses. Speaking to the media, NITI Aayog member Dr Vinod K Paul said, "Those who have received Covaxin supplements will get Covaxin further. On the other hand, those who have taken two doses of Covishield will get the same vaccine. Similarly, we're moving forward.'' He said that no mixing of any kind will be done in the vaccine for a booster dose.
Paul further said he would see details as "data and science" regarding the vaccine's mix and skewed approach. Vaccination of booster doses for healthcare and frontline workers and senior citizens with commodity will begin on January 10. This dose will be seen in vaccination certificates. Paul further said, 'We are now facing a sharp rise in corona cases. We believe it is largely driven by Omicron. It's a reality.'
Addressing the media, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director-General, Balram Bhargava said that Omicron is a 'major circulating strain' in Indian cities, and 'mass gatherings should be avoided to slow down the spread.' On vaccination of children aged 15 to 17 years starting from January 3, Paul said that more than 10 million youth in this age group have received their first dose so far.
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