Over 50% in India’s 15-18 age group receive 1st Covid shot

Over 50 percent of youngsters in India between the age group of 15-18 years have received the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Announcing the landmark on Twitter, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare described it as a “big day for India’s fight against Covid-19”.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, responded to this and tweeted, “Young and youthful India showing the way!

This is encouraging news. Let us keep the momentum.

It is important to vaccinate and observe all Covid-19 related protocols. Together, we will fight this pandemic.”

The adolescent population (in the 15-18 years age group) began receiving Covid-19 vaccines from January 3 this year. The response so far has been enthusiastic.

India launched what has been described as one of the world’s largest vaccination drives on January 16 last year.

In the first phase, the drive covered doctors, healthcare workers, frontline workers across India.

On March 1, 2021, vaccinations were started for those above the age of 60 years and those with co-morbidities in the 45-60 year age group.

A month later, all above the age of 45 years became eligible for Covid-19 vaccination.

On May 1, 2021, all adults (18 years and above) became eligible to receive Covid-19 vaccinations.

Administration of a precautionary dose of vaccine began for frontline workers and vulnerable people above the age of 60 years from January 10, 2022 onwards, a week after the drive was opened up to the 15-18 years age group.