From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Mar 23: Karnataka faces no shortage of vaccine and it will be made available to all above 45 from April 1, announced health and family welfare minister Dr K Sudhakar on Tuesday.

The minister said the state government has already discussed the issue of availability of the vaccine against the Covid pandemic and the Centre has assured that there will be no shortage of vaccine.

Speaking to media in Chikkaballapur, he said the state will be receiving 12.5 lac doses of vaccine from the Centre by next week.

Before that, he said additional 4 lac doses will be dispatched through flight.

The state government will ensure that there is no shortage of vaccine, said the minister.

Dr Sudhakar said the second wave has begun in the state.

"The number of cases is steadily increasing in several parts of the state. People should be vigilant and ensure that Covid precautions are followed,’’ he said.

The minister made it clear that people who are not wearing a mask and violating norms are being penalised. Functions and gatherings should be avoided for the next two months.

Starting from April 1, the vaccine will be available to all citizens above 45 years of age in the state, he declared.

This will ensure better coverage and further expedite our efforts to make Karnataka Covid-19 free. I urge all eligible citizens to get vaccinated at the earliest,’’ the minister added.