All those in the eligible age groups can obtain their first or second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine from their MOH Offices every Saturday, Health Promotion Bureau (HPB) Director Dr. Ranjith Batuwanthudawa said.
He told a press briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau in Colombo on Friday that those who wished to obtain the vaccine can contact their MOH Office and obtain a time for the vaccination. No matter how much time has passed from the date of obtaining the first dose, the second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine should be obtained. It is essential to achieve immunity. People should not misuse the relaxation of certain health guidelines by the Government and the health authorities.
It has been observed that Covid-19 spreads through weddings, funerals, parties and social gatherings. Therefore, people should avoid crowded places and events. They should follow all basic health guidelines all the time.
Family Health Bureau Director Dr. Chithramali De Silva said that a slight increase in Covid-19 cases among schoolchildren and pregnant mothers had been observed during the past few days. Pregnant mothers should stay at home. Schoolchildren should attend schools, which is important. However, parents should not expose their children to crowds and take them to public places.
Earlier, only 65 or 70 Covid-19 pregnant mothers were reported but now this number has increased up to 100 or so. Therefore, it is essential for pregnant mothers to obtain both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine no matter which stage of pregnancy they are in. Children and pregnant mothers should avoid crowded places. They should strictly follow all health guidelines, all the time, she said.