The situation remains critical in the country with the sudden spike in cases during the second wave. While it’s every persons wish now to get vaccinated but the supply of vaccines are limited and it may be more prudent to reset the vaccination plan to a priority access plan rather than a free access for all chaos that’s currently ongoing.

Recently AiMeD Forum Coordinator, Rajiv Nath wrote to NITI Aayog requesting the vaccination of Medical Device Manufacturers Employees/Ancillaries and Distribution Chains. As the government has given a go for corporates to vaccinate their employees, it is also essential for the employees working in the medical manufacturing field to get vaccinated free of cost. As they have been working to support the medical industry during these tough times without taking leave.

As a reward for their unending dedication the employees of Medical Devices especially those related to COVID-19 management and vaccination syringes should be provided vaccination free of cost on a Priority basis or by allowing all the expenses on these to be included under CSR activities at least to be done.

Rajiv Nath, Forum Coordinator, AiMeD said, “Medical Devices & Pharmaceutical Industry & distribution & retail supply chain is considered an essential product & services and also the groceries storekeepers and employees – we can also relax at home and our employees can take a 2-4 week break but risk going out to work daily since over 14 months but are not in any Central or State Govt priority list of vaccination to ensure protecting those who help protect public. Similarly, for journalists, ground staff of airlines & air hostess, hotel/hospitals receptionist, etc – they need to be on a priority list as these are potential superspreaders and have to risk working in the field.”

“Meanwhile, employees fall ill as not vaccinated and production losses are there, and supply chain disruptions leading to localised shortages in some cities . Today there are shortages of oxygen & oxygen cylinders & oxygen concentrator, tomorrow maybe for oxygen masks, IV sets and basics like syringes- is fire fighting the only way or threatening to shut down as announced by the chemists association, or we should be focused on preventive measures and management of limited resources by prioritised access that no one will question as being unjustified,” he added.