Unsystematic COVID-19 Vaccination drive in place: Dr. Aluthge

COLOMBO (News 1st): Sri Lanka's COVID-19 Vaccination Drive is being carried out at various locations in a very unorganized manner, alleged the Government Medical Officers' Association (GMOA) on Monday (Feb. 22). The vaccination drive targeting the general public to administer India's AstraZeneca COVISHIELD jab was carried out today (22) as well, in Colombo and Gampaha districts; large crowds were seen gathered at the P.D. Sirisena Grounds in Maligawatte, Colombo to receive the jab. The staff members at the Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka (Private) Limited also received the COVID-19 jab today (22). While referring to statements made by various ministers on anyone above the age of 60 years could receive the jab, Dr. Haritha Aluthge, the Editor at the Government Medical Officers' Association (GMOA), raised the questions on where to obtain the vaccine, how to obtain the vaccine, and where should one register? "Sri Lanka has submitted one plan to the World Health Organisation (WHO), however, something completely different to that is being implemented in the country," Dr. Aluthge emphasized. GMOA's Dr. Haritha Aluthge pointed out that a well-planned vaccination programme was submitted, where it clearly stated the jab should be administered at 4000 centres identified by the GMOA. According to the initial plan, of the 4000 centres, the vaccination drive was set to be carried out at 2000 centres one day and the next day at the other 2000 centres; thereby allowing the staff at the centres to take a break. "Today the vaccination drive is conducted daily, where, the medical staff are required to engaged in administering the jab 24*7, disregarding all other tasks," GMOA Editor - Dr. Haritha Aluthge noted.