Covid jabs at home
Over eight months after the launch of the nationwide Covid-19 vaccination programme, the Union Government has announced that differently abled people and those with restricted mobility and special needs will be administered vaccine doses at their homes. It’s a welcome step that was long overdue. Hopefully, it will address vaccine hesitancy among these oft-neglected sections of society. The decision has been prompted by a nudge from the Supreme Court. On Monday, the court had asked the Centre to respond to a PIL seeking door-to-door vaccination of persons with disability. The plea, filed under the Constitution’s Article 32 — which allows any citizen to move the apex court in case of violation of fundamental rights — has sought priority Covid vaccination for the disabled, citing their vulnerability to coronavirus infection.
It’s a cause for concern that one-third of India’s adult population is yet to receive even a single vaccine dose. These unprotected people are at high risk of suffering the worst outcomes in case they get infected. A sizeable proportion of them might be differently abled, elderly in general or particularly those with old age-related infirmities. It’s not only difficult but also hazardous for them to visit vaccination centres, especially when these places are overcrowded. The Centre has directed all states and UTs to initiate identification and listing of citizens falling in these groups so that doorstep vaccination can be started forthwith. The exercise will be carried out by mobile teams which will visit one house/locality after another. The logistics — manpower requirement, supply of doses, maintaining the prescribed temperature of vaccines — would have to be worked out with precision. It is also important to ensure that the allocation of resources for this special drive does not impact the overall vaccination campaign, which has gained considerable momentum in recent weeks.
A dedicated helpline for these vulnerable groups, apart from the CoWIN portal, can be useful for hassle-free scheduling of vaccination. The standard operating procedures need to be rigorously followed so that the beneficiaries’ safety is not compromised. Success on this front will make India’s inoculation programme inspiringly inclusive and comprehensive.
