Covaxin trails are going to be successful in the state and Karnataka is fully prepared for the distribution of Covid-19 vaccine, said state Health & Medical Education Minister Dr K. Sudhakar.
The minister was speaking after the launch of the third phase of clinical trials of Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin in Vydehi Institute of Medical Science and Research Centre. Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa joined the event via video conference.
Dr Sudhakar said, “It’s a matter of pride for our state that clinical trials are happening at 25 centres of 12 states across the country. A total of 26,000 people are being administered with Covid-19 vaccination in India out of which 1,600-1,800 people are in our state alone. People should be wary of rumours and misinformation during this trial period.”
Talking about the side effects of the vaccine, the minister said that around 15-20% Indian companies are developing vaccination globally and there may be some side effects. Experts are observing it and there is no need for panic at this stage.
The Modi government has reserved Rs 900 crore for vaccine research. The Prime Minister himself has visited and inspected the research centres in Pune, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. The CM Yediyurappa-led government in Karnataka has kept aside Rs 300 crore for vaccine trials. Free of cost treatment is being given to Covid patients. A total of 1.25 lakh tests are conducted per day in the state and 1.2 cr free Covid testing has been conducted so far, explained Dr Sudhakar.
He said that Karnataka is fully prepared for vaccine distribution, 29,451 vaccine distribution centres have been identified, and 10,008 trained staff are ready. A total of 2,855 cold storage centres are available for storage of vaccines. Regional centres are being set up in Bengaluru, Shivamogga, and Bellary. Healthcare workers will be given the vaccination in the first phase followed by frontline warriors, people aged above 50 years and people with co-morbidities, added Dr Sudhakar.