Lab technologists raise doubt over Lankans getting their second jab of Covishield vaccine

The College of Medical Laboratory Science (CMLS) warns of the danger of Sri Lanka relying solely on the Indian Covishield vaccine. CMLS President Ravi Kumudesh told The Island that there was a delay in getting down Covishield vaccines from India and Health officials had no idea as to what to do. Therefore, they first announced that they would temporarily halt the vaccination programme and then claimed it was back on track. “I don’t think anyone knows whether we can get Covishield vaccines on time for the second dose.”

Due to this uncertainty, it is likely that around a million jabs, given on the first phase of the roll out, might go waste. The second dose is vital for people to get effective immunity, Kumudesh said.

“We warned that it was a bad idea to rely on the Indian vaccine alone. We were not alone in saying this. But the health officials decided that it was a good idea to stick to one vaccine. So far, we have used only the AstraZeneca vaccine to inoculate people. Now, we are bringing in other vaccines but what about everyone who got the first shot? I think the Health Minister must plead with India and get enough vaccines to give the second jab to the people, who have already got the first. They should also think long and rationally about the vaccination programme.” (RK)