IMA offers full support to govt

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, January 12

The Indian Medical Association (IMA), in an official statement on Monday, said after an extensive review of the scientific data, indexed articles, expert panel reports and in discussion with IMA, ICMR and WHO experts, they have decided to take part in Covid-19 vaccination programme rolled out by the Government of India.

Besides, it requested its 3.5 lakh members in 1,800 local branches to voluntarily come out to get vaccinated first so as to show to the world that these vaccines are safe and efficacious.

Divulging the details, IMA President, Punjab Unit, Paramjit Mann, said the IMA appreciates the hard work of Indian scientists, modern medicine doctors and the government for bringing out two Indian vaccines against SARS Covid-19.

Dr Mann said it was a proud moment for the nation as it was heading towards becoming super power with the research and development in the field of modern medicine.

“IMA rightfully stands firm as a natural and professional stakeholder in this achievement not only in the development of the vaccine but also in delivering the vaccine. All infrastructure facilities of IMA branches across the country will be available voluntarily for this vaccination programme and all our members of Indian Medical Association will voluntarily serve with technical and supportive manpower,” he added.

Dr Mann also said IMA Punjab believed getting vaccination is not only to protect the individual but also to promote the herd immunity.

“We stand with scientists to endorse safety and efficacy of both these vaccines, so public awareness and countering with myths on vaccine percolating in social media shall be our priority. Our modern medicine doctors will vouch for the safety, quality and professionalism in these difficult times and support the emergency approval for the usage of vaccines,” he said.

Dr Supreek Kaur Virk, Secretary, IMA unit Phagwara, said, “We are giving full support to the vaccination drive. We organised an awareness meet with civil authorities and private practitioners. Besides, we have decided to actively participate in the dry run of vaccination.”

“We appeal to the public to adhere to the Covid protocol even agter getting vaccinated,” she said, adding that the Indian Medical Association Headquarters has also constituted a Pharmacovigilance Centre in IMA HQs Building, New Delhi, for monitoring post vaccination reactions and render appropriate support.