Maharashtra set to finish uploading frontline recipients’ details by December 10: Officials

PUNE: State officials claimed that they would finish uploading details of healthcare workers — first recipients of a Covid vaccine — to the Covin app by December 10.

The app — short for ‘Covid-19 Vaccine Intelligence Network' — is being developed by the Centre to track distribution and dosage.

The officials added that so far, none of the workers whose names have been included in the vaccination list have pulled out of the programme, which is voluntary.

State immunization officer DN Patil, in-charge of the vaccination drive in the state, said, “The procedure has been time consuming. Compilation of names from government institutes is 100% complete. The private sector is yet to finish the task. We have asked all district officials to hurry it up.” The list of healthcare workers includes all medical, paramedical, security and administration staff at allopathic clinics, dental clinics, AYUSH units, physiotherapy clinics, diagnostic labs and other healthcare settings. Officials said since there is no limit on the number of beneficiaries, all districts have been asked to list names after they have consent from the individuals.

“Details include name, age and ID proof — all collected with help from medical associations,” Patil said.

Central health officials said states have also been asked to keep a list of potential vaccinators ready.

A person can be considered as a potential vaccinator as long as she/he is actively involved in day-to-day clinical care and has experience in administering injections.

“States may also consider retired personnel to meet the demand for vaccinators,” Patil said.