Tura, Jan 10: Although the vaccination percentage in West Garo hills has been pegged at 97 percent, yet, Covid infections are still taking place and the arrival of the fast spreading omicron variant is keeping health surveillance teams on a red alert.

In view of the rising cases of Covid variant across the country and as part of the precautionary measure, the District Task force meeting was held at Conference Hall of Circuit House, Tura on Monday to brief the Members of the District Task Force about the continuation of Covid Vaccination for all including 15 to 18 years of age and introduction of Booster dose which is being administered from Monday onwards in the district.

Speaking during the meeting, the West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, Ram Singh said that considering the situations across the country, though the new variant is mild, yet, it is highly infectious and, therefore, necessary precautionary measures and Covid protocols need to be followed strictly. Stating that about 97 per cent of the people have been vaccinated in the district, he urged those above 60 years of age with co-morbidities and having already completed 9 months from the date of administering 2nd dose vaccination to take booster dose.

During the meeting, the Additional DMHO, Tura Bijoy Dev Barma highlighted the importance of Covid Vaccination adding that even though the case is less as of now, however, necessary precautions should be taken in order to prevent further the spread of the disease in the coming days.

Meanwhile, the DMCHO, Tura Dr. Ivonne M Sangma briefed the gathering about the ongoing Covid vaccine programme and reminded everyone to follow Covid appropriate behaviour for the safety of everyone. Further, mentioning that the vaccination for the age group between 15-18 years should be completed by January 20, 2022, she said that planned session sites would be arranged in the schools so as to complete the vaccination as scheduled. She also clarified that the 2nd dose can be given after 28 days.

Moreover, use of hand sanitizers, wearing of masks, social distancing and hand hygiene needs to be followed during the time of vaccination, observation after vaccination and everyday as for now, she informed. Further, she informed that the Booster dose has been rolled out in the district for health care and frontline workers including 60 plus age with co-morbidities in the health care centers in the district.