NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to address the nation on Saturday night on short notice was prompted by the need to effectively communicate decisions to start booster doses and vaccinations for children without unnecessary speculation.
Rather than leaving the matter to officials and press releases, Prime Minister Modi explained the categories eligible for the "precautionary dose" (as he chose to call the booster shots) and also placed the decisions in the context of the current Covid situation in the country.
The sources said the reference to "precautionary" doses should be seen in the context of studies and surveys that reveal a high degree of "hybrid immunity" in the country that arises from being vaccinated and also to contract the disease at some point. Infection in such cases can often be asymptomatic, as sero surveys showing antibodies suggest even in children who have not received vaccines. Therefore, the recalls could best be seen as a dose of "precaution" for people of a certain age group or in "at risk" jobs.
The government has been cautious about initiating vaccination for children despite encouraging results from Covaxin and Zydus shots, as the opinion is that even a few stray adverse reports could turn out to be a serious setback. In addition, government experts noted minimal infections among children and prevalence of antibodies.
The advent of the more transmissible Omicron variant and concerns about immunity levels in the elderly who received the vaccines in early 2021 and health and frontline workers have led to a comprehensive review of the data and decisions announced by the PM
In addition, it was also necessary, according to the sources, to ensure adequate availability of vaccines for the large number of people who will be eligible for booster shots and first doses for children. The government's current goal is to scaling up full vaccination for adults remains relevant as it is basic protection against serious disease and death. Bringing this figure to at least 85% from the current 61% is the top priority.
Overall, the Prime Minister's speech was seen to reflect the need for caution while showing confidence that the country was ready to deal with the rise in Omicron infections. The comments from businesses and industry, according to the sources, reflect a willingness to take the evolving situation into account rather than anticipate major upheavals.
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