Pakistan has given the go-ahead to booster shots of COVID-19 vaccines for healthcare workers, immune-compromised persons and those aged 50 and above amid fears of the Omicron variant.
The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has permitted the management of COVID-19 shot’s booster jab for people clustered into three categories among the dangers of an outburst of Omicron, a new variant of the virus.
A meeting of the NCOC was held under the supervision of the Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives and NCOC chief Asad Umar, in which he declared to have launched a special vaccination movement in the country from today, December 1.
The setting assured to vaccinate healthcare workers, persons above the age of 50, and those with a weak immune system with the booster shots during the special drive. The people who have done their six months of immunization will also be given a booster jab.
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Besides, the gathering was informed about the coronavirus outbreak, fatalities and new patients brought to the hospitals.
It was specified that almost 40 vaccination centers have been established all over the country. All the associated authorities and provinces were advised to adopt a zero-tolerance policy.
The forum also inculcated the provincial governments to emphasize the spread of the new variant.
‘No Omicron case detected in Pakistan so far’
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr. Faisal Sultan said that so far no case of Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been found in Pakistan.
Talking to the media, Dr. Faisal Sultan informed that a meeting is organized today at the NCOC during which strategies and rules regarding the vaccination will be finalized.
“We cannot control the Omicron variant from coming to Pakistan, but we can control its impact by ramping up the immunization process,” the health minister said.
“Our priority is those who have not been vaccinated at all.”
“With more people immunized, we can control the impact. It is my appeal to the people to get vaccinated and follow SOPs,” he added.
