Kerala, Mumbai, easy vaccination for students going abroad

Written by Shaju Philip, Sanjana Bhalerao | Mumbai, Thiruvananthapuram | Updated: May 29, 2021 3:25:40 AM The Kerala Health Department on Friday changed the vaccination criteria for those traveling abroad, allowing them to take a second dose of the coviciled vaccine after the first four to six weeks. Got, while the current 12 -16-week hiatus is now recommended. Last week, the state government included those traveling abroad for jobs and studies among priority groups for vaccination, Who were to be administered kovishields purchased by the government. Health Minister Veena George said that Kerala has brought to the notice of the Center the problems faced by travelers going abroad and requested that they be given concession in second dose of Kovishield. He said that due to no directive from the Center, the state government decided to go ahead. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation also announced on Friday that those going abroad for studies would be given preference for Kovid-19 vaccination in the age group of 18-44.

The Municipal Corporation has set aside three days a week (Monday to Wednesday) for their vaccinations without pre-registration, at designated centers in Mumbai. In a late-night notification, the BMC said that students with proof of confirmation in foreign universities or required foreign visas would get preference with breastfeeding women, especially disabled and senior citizens, at vaccination centers. Due to lack of vaccines, 18–44 group shots have been stopped at BMC centers. Some private hospitals in Mumbai are offering vaccines, but only with prior appointment. Kerala stated that it would issue the Kovid vaccination certificate which would contain the passport number of the recipient. Many countries have made the Kovid Vaccination Certificate mandatory for travel clearance, Which also includes passport numbers. George stated that they would give covishield to such recipients as the WHO approved it. With bookings not permitted prior to 12 weeks between the dosas with Co-Win, those going abroad will be cleared by the districts upon confirmation of the documents. The certificates will be issued by the District Medical Officer.