Commissioner Secretary, Health, Rigzin Samphel reviewed the preparedness for COVID-19 vaccination drive on January 8 at the Secretariat. 

Director Health, UT Ladakh, Dr. Phuntsog Angchuk; Chief Medical Officer, Leh, Dr. Dorje Motup; Medical Superintendent, Leh, Dr. Nurzin Angmo, District Immunisation Officer (DIO), Leh, Dr. Tashi Namgyal, and DIO, Kargil, Dr. Abbas attended the meeting.

DIO, Leh, Dr. Tashi gave informed that a total of 38 cold chain points (Leh-23 and Kargil-15), and 333 session sites have been prepared in both Leh and Kargil districts. A total of 6000 healthcare beneficiaries in both the districts would be vaccinated in the first round. 

He shared information on logistics and storage of vaccines, including ice-lined refrigerators (ILRs), deep freezers, and cold box carriers for the vaccine. He also recommended that block headquarters of both the districts be connected through the internet with the respective district hospitals to seek expert opinion and consultation in case of adverse effect following immunisation (AEFI).

Commissioner Secretary (Health) directed concerned officials to prepare COVID vaccine-dedicated control room in both districts manned by medical officials for queries related to immunisation and AEFI. He also directed the concerned official to ensure reliable communication and transportation facilities at all the blocks.

Director Health was asked to explore the possibility of a stand-by chopper in medical cases such as AEFI, in areas such as Zanskar and Tangtse. He highlighted the need for a micro-plan for efficacy in the vaccination drive.

DIO, Kargil informed the Commissioner Secretary about possible issues that could hamper the vaccination drive such as internet connectivity and delay due to heavy snowfall in places such as Drass, Sapi and Panikhar. Commissioner Secretary (Health) also directed concerned officials to utilise COVID-19 funds for resolving issues related to the vaccination drive.