Shortage of doses hits drive in Karnataka's Kodagu

MADIKERI: The vaccination programme in Kodagu spluttered on Monday as a shortage of doses forced the district administration to limit the number of session sites to just 28 — from the planned 39. Also, nearly 30% of healthcare workers from Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences refused to take the vaccine, citing various reasons.
“The district’s requirement for healthcare workers is 6,550 doses, but we received only 4,000 doses,” said Dr Gopinath, RCH officer.“We had to shut some session sites.”
Consequently the list of beneficiaries too has been pruned. Medical, paramedical and nursing students will have to wait for shots. However, sources say additional doses are likely to arrive soon.
Official data shows the district had achieved of 84% coverage of the target set for the first day, but there has been a slump since. Many healthcare workers refused to be vaccinated due to various reasons. Pregnant and lactating women, newly married staff and people with allergies were among the ones who refused to be inoculated. Some postponed the jab.
One adverse effect case was reported in the district. “A beneficiary complained of vomiting during the night after getting the vaccine. A tablet was recommended and she was fine the next day,” said Dr Gopinath.