MANGALURU: A total 21 vaccine doses were wasted across
Dakshina Kannada district
on Saturday, the first day of the vaccination programme. Officials said 25 vials of
Covishield were used, but only 229 people were vaccinated, although a total 250 could have received the vaccine with that many vials.
A total 20 health workers received the vaccine at Wenlock district hospital in Mangaluru, 45 at Surathkal urban health centre, 40 in Bantwal taluk hospital (TH), 35 in Belthangady TH, 45 in Sullia TH and 44 received shots in Puttur TH.
Dr BV Rajesh, reproductive and child health officer and official in-charge of the drive in
Dakshina Kannada
district, admitted “a small quantity of vaccine” was wasted on the first day. He said while a vial contains 10 doses of 0.5ml each, it also contains an extra dose. “Only two vials were used at Wenlock hospital,” he said.
Dr Ramachandra Bairy, district health officer, said, “None of the 229 who received shots had any side effects. We have received good feedback from all session sites. We expect more people to receive the vaccine from Monday.”
Suchithra Hosabettu, an Asha worker who was vaccinated on Saturday, said she was fine after 24 hours later. “Many were afraid of receiving the vaccine,” she said. “All members in our Asha WhatsApp group were asked to report health issues immediately. None have reported any issues.”
The drive will continue on Monday at all four taluk hospitals, six community health centres and eight private medical colleges.
Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.He is an Assistant Editor with The Times of India, Mangaluru.