NCOC approves administration of booster shots for health workers, immunocompromised people and those over 50

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) approves the administration of booster shots for health workers, immunocompromised people, and the elderly over 50 on Wednesday.

The decision was taken by the NCOC in wake of the threats posed by an outbreak of Omicron, a new variant of the virus.

A meeting of the NCOC was chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives and NCOC chief Asad Umar.

NCOC announced to launch a special vaccination drive in the country from today, December 1.

The forum decided to inoculate healthcare workers, individuals above the age of 50, and those having a weak immune system with the booster shots during the special drive.

The individuals who have completed six months of vaccination will also be given a booster jab.

The Forum also directed authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance policy, saying people will be “vaccinated on the spot if found unvaccinated”.

The meeting was briefed about the coronavirus outbreak, casualties and new patients brought to the hospitals.

The booster shots are part of the stepped-up NCOC efforts to prevent a fifth wave of coronavirus pandemic in the country in the wake of the emergence of a deadlier and fast-spreading Omicron variant.

A day earlier, the Sindh government announced new curbs aimed at curtailing the spread of a new heavily mutated Covid-19 strain Omicron.

According to a notification issued by Sindh Home Department, the educational activities would continue across the province.

In line with the NCOC’s recommendations, new curbs have been imposed which will be applicable from December 1-15.

“The National Command and Operations Centre had placed Karachi, Sukkur, and Sanghar in “category B” — cities with good vaccination progress — while other cities of the province fell under “category C” — cities with low vaccination progress,” read the notification.