Madhya Pradesh: The Coronavirus vaccination program for children between12-14 years would begin from 23rd March as informed earlier by the state health authorities. Around 1.15 lakh children will be immunized under the 12+ program officials stated.

Around 102 schools in the city and 85 in rural areas have been revamped as dedicated Vaccination centres. Children will have to present their school ID cards or Aadhaar cards for getting vaccinated.

The Centre a week ago released guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination of children between 12-14 years that commenced from March 16, however, MP announced a delay in taking the initiative citing its lack of preparedness.

Two doses of Biological E’s intramuscular vaccine Corbevax would be administered to the beneficiaries in the 12-14 years age group at an interval of 28 days, the guidelines said.  

“The vaccination slots will be booked for 12-14 years age group for “CorBEvax” only through Co-WIN. The vaccinator has to ensure that the vaccine is administered to only those children who have completed the age of 12 years on the date of vaccination and if a child is registered but has not attained the age of 12 years, the vaccination is not to be given,” the guidelines further added. Dedicated inoculation sessions have been devised to avoid their unintended vaccination with any other COVID-19 vaccines.

As per the guidelines said all citizens irrespective of their income status are entitled to free COVID-19 vaccination at government Covid centres.