As coronavirus cases make a comeback in a few states, it has sent alarm bells ringing all over again. Talking about how even after vaccination, people have to take full precautions, MoS Health Ashwani Chaubey said that a few states are witnessing the second or third wave of the pandemic; therefore, precautions are a must. Excerpts:
Q: Corona cases are increasing again, including in Maharashtra and Delhi. How do you see this?
A: See, the vaccination drive is going on in full swing, but we will have to follow all protocols: “Dawai bhi Kadai bhi”. People have followed it in the past, but yes, this surge in some states is a challenge and the governments of such states are well aware about it. People will have to carry on the practice of washing hands, wearing masks and maintaining social distance. Five-six states have witnessed 80-85% surge in total caseloads. Some states are witnessing the second or third wave of the pandemic, so precautions are a must.
Q: Do you think carelessness is the main reason behind this surge?
A: Definitely. People must be aware about it. Vaccination is going on; we have inoculated more than three crore people, including frontline workers, elderly people and people with comorbidities. But besides this, I appeal to the people that they must be careful about it.
Q: Will the Centre send a team to such states?
A: Our teams keep going there. Our experts are keeping tabs on the situation and we give them required advice from time to time.
Q: There are some allegations that Opposition-ruled states are not getting enough supply of vaccines. Is it true?
A: These are unfortunate allegations inspired by politics; it shows their petty mentality. Vaccine supply is taking place without any disparity. We are following the “sabka sath sabka vikas” mantra. We believe in federal structure and our PM Modi is doing no discrimination. Vaccine supply is being done as per consumption. Our people are spreading vaccine awareness in Delhi which is an Opposition ruled state. Such allegations are baseless and unfortunate.