The first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine given at Manipal Hospitals Vijayawada, for the age group of 15-18 years

India has started vaccinating children aged     15-18 against the corona virus infection. Currently COVAXIN manufactured by Bharath Biotech has been approved by the Government for use in this age group.  In step with this development Manipal Hospitals, Vijayawada, launched a pediatric vaccination program, offering the first dose of the vaccination for children across the state.

Manipal Hospitals, Vijayawada, has followed the guidelines provided by the state government, striving to make the vaccination drive a successful initiative. The exercise was exclusively designed to be carried out at the dedicated area of the hospital and is manned by vaccine officers, nurses, and doctors, as per the government guidelines.

Speaking about the launch, Dr.P.Ravi Kumar- Senior Consultant Pediatrician, Neonatologist, said, “I am grateful to Manipal Hospitals for this initiative. The children found themselves comfortable as the doctors and nurses were generous and guided them through the process. We all encountered an extremely difficult situation during the second wave of Covid-19. For children, it was no different. So, getting the children vaccinated against Covid-19 is an extremely important step.”

Dr.B.Uday Kiran – Consultant Pediatrician, said, “The COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to keep children safe against the new variant Omicron, including the Delta variant.  Manipal Hospitals has provided slots to ensure a smooth vaccination drive for children.”

Dr.Sudhakar Kantipudi, Hospital Director said, “The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously impacted the lives of children and young people and the immunization process will be an important step toward recovery. Keeping this in mind, the government has taken this great initiative in providing vaccination to children in the age group of 15-18. I appeal to all parents and teachers to take the initiative to get the teenagers vaccinated to stop the spread of Covid-19.”