Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 16 : The Covid vaccination programme commenced in Kerala on Saturday with state Health Minister K.K.
Shailaja taking part in the drive at Kannur while state Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran attended a vaccination programme at Thiruvananthapuram.
At Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Medical Education Director Ramla Beevi received the first vaccine shot at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College.
Beevi while speaking to IANS after receiving the vaccination shot and the mandatory half-an-hour observation time said, "It's a great moment.
I salute all the health workers for their dedication and hard work to fight against the deadly Covid-19 pandemic, and not even going to their homes during the peak days of the infection.
As far as the vaccine is concerned, it's great to have taken it and I don't find any problems physically after taking the vaccine shot".
"There was no hesitation in receiving the vaccine shot and there was no pain while taking the vaccine.
This is a message to the society that the vaccination is safe," Beevi added.
In nearly all districts in the state, medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and allied workers are taking part in the vaccination drive.
Health Minister Shailaja said, "This is a great moment and I am really happy that things are moving ahead as planned.
My salute to all the health workers who led the fight against the pandemic but we must be more careful and concerned and should not let down our guard as the vaccination has begun.
Everyone must wear a mask, sanitise hands and maintain social distancing norms even now."
In Palakkad, the first dose of the vaccine was taken by District Medical Officer Remadevi, followed by medical professionals.
Noted cardiac surgeon Dr Jose Periappuram after receiving the vaccine shot at Ernakulam said, "The vaccine was painless and we have completed all the mandatory formalities after the vaccination.
My colleagues, including doctors, nurses and paramedical staff, are taking the vaccine and let us hope that we overcome the pandemic with all these measures.
However, the fight is on and we must be guarded and cautious in our approach towards the infection."
--IANS
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Source: IANS
