Shillong, June 9: Meghalaya Health Minister has appealed to Rangbah Shnongs and members of the Dorbar Shnongs to come forward for COVID-19 tests as well as take the vaccine against the virus. He said leaders need to lead by example and once the people see their leaders take tests and jabs, others will follow them naturally.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the COVID-19 relief materials provided to Seva Bharati, Meghalaya by the Seva International at Bishnupur on Wednesday, Hek urged people to not be complacent about the declining numbers of COVID cases in the state.

“We cannot be complacent… This covid-19 is still there. The numbers are fluctuating, but we have not won the battle against COVID-19,” the Minister told the gathering.

He said everyone should consider himself/herself as a carrier of the corona virus, thereby the individual needs to not only care about his/her safety but also about his/her family and friends. “If you carry yourself as a carrier, then you know how to respect others, that is why you are wearing masks and washing hands, and maintaining social distancing; this is very important,” he said.

Asking people to “take this responsibility” he asked them to come out for tests to ensure that they are not carrying the virus. At the same time, he urged them act like a ‘responsible person’ by following the protocols given time to time by the health department of the Meghalaya government, as well as Central government.

Also, he appealed to people to take the vaccine as it the best way to fight corona pandemic. “I appeal to every individual that they should not be afraid to take the vaccination,” he said.

Meanwhile, Seva Bharati, Meghalaya has received 15 oxygen concentrators, 200 oximeters and 400 PPE kits from Seva International. These medical equipment which are significant for COVID-19 patients with low oxygen saturation levels are meant for the people of Meghalaya.