THD NewsDesk, New Delhi: In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, the largest body for doctors, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has urged for vaccinations to all adults above 18.
The letter expressed concerns regarding the second wave of Covid-19, which is leading to a rapid surge in the number of covid cases across the country. More than 1 lakh cases have been recorded in the last 24 hours for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic.
“In view of the rapid spread of the second wave of the disease, we suggest that our vaccination strategy needs to be geared up with immediate effect on war foot,” an excerpt from the letter read.
The letter also had a series of requests which includes walk-in vaccination facilities that are free-of-cost and a “limited period continuous lockdown” for “non-essential areas” like cinema halls, cultural events and sports.
Speaking to The Print, Dr Jayesh Lele, general secretary of the IMA explained the motive behind the letter. “The IMA has been helping the government counter vaccine hesitancy since day one, and we are prepared to help in any way we can to increase vaccinations. Compared to other countries, our vaccination rate is very low. We have been anticipating a second wave for a long time, and that’s why we sent this letter out,” he said.
The IMA has also suggested a vaccination certificate should be made mandatory for entering into public places and receiving products under the public distribution system.
The letter added that a zero-tolerance approach should be taken towards people breaking rules.
“Zero tolerance against the non-compliance of Covid appropriate behaviours, augmentation of infrastructure beds and oxygen availability, moral support and enthusiastic engagements of frontline health workers, ensuring adequate health care protective gears support and strict adherence to the evidence-based treatment protocols are the key factors needed at this moment,” the letter reads.
