Panchkula vaccinates all eligible persons as per 2011 Census

Tribune News Service

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Panchkula, September 4

Panchkula has claimed to have crossed a major milestone of vaccinating 100 per cent of its eligible population with the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, according to the data shared by the District Health Department.

According to the estimates of the Health Department (based on 2011 Census), a total of 3,86,553 (above the age of 18) persons were eligible under the vaccination programme and 3,88,384 people have taken at least their first shot, which is 100.47 per cent of the target.

In figures

According to the estimates of the Health Department (based on 2011 Census), a total of 3,86,553 (above the age of 18) persons were eligible under the vaccination programme and 3,88,384 people have taken at least their first shot, which is 100.47 per cent of the target.

The district had exceeded its target due to migratory population from neighbouring states, said health officials.

Nearly 44 per cent (1,69,845 people) of the targeted population have also taken the second shot.

District Immunisation Officer Dr Meenu Sasan said they had administered a total of 5.58 lakh doses in the district so far, out of which 3.88 lakh were the first doses.

“We are aiming to administer the maximum second doses now,” she said, urging people who have already taken their first dose to not skip their second dose.

“As we brace for the third wave, everyone should be fully vaccinated,” she stated.

When asked if estimated numbers could be unrealistic as they were based on 2011 census and the current population (in 18 plus category) would be much higher, Dr Sasan said numbers could vary, but they will ensure everyone received both doses.

The district vaccination programme faced many hurdles since its inception for the general public on March 1, with the drive slowing down on several occasions due to the shortage. However, the district adopted measures to vaccinate all eligible by starting mega drives, special vaccination mobile vans in urban slums, dedicated camps for beggars and the homeless.

On Saturday, as many as 4,801 people were vaccinated across 36 sites.