BMC prepares for doorstep vaccination to kick off from August 2

MUMBAI: Preparations have begun for the door-to-door vaccination of bedridden patients that will start from August 2 in the city.
The BMC has got a list of 4,488 names so far which are being assessed to understand their level of illness and disability. They are also being advised to get a medical certificate or opinion from a doctor stating their fitness to get vaccinated.
State and civic authorities had agreed to the door-to-door drive after a PIL was filed in the Bombay high court three months ago. Civic officials said since August 1 is a Sunday, the drive will be started from the following day. Multiple teams of doctors, nurses, paramedic and attendants are being formed to carry out the drive. The biggest concern, which the authorities are working around, is to avoid wastage of doses. A vial contains 10 doses and once opened, it must be used within four hours.
Additional municipal commissioner Suresh Kakani said they have divided the 4,488 benef-iciaries between 216 health posts across wards. “We are still findi-ng the best way to immunise. We are trying to locate clusters, but most buildings appear to have one or two individuals,” he said. The 30-minute observation time is another challenge, he added.
On Tuesday, vaccinations saw a significant uptick in the city with 96,107 people taking the shots. Over 73,000 doses were given in the public centres. Civic officials said they have adequate stocks to vaccinate till July 29. Across Maharashtra, nearly 5.7 lakh people got vaccinated on Tuesday.