Bhubaneswar: As the world’s largest vaccination drive is scheduled to begin from January 16, the first consignment of COVID-19 vaccine ‘Covishield’, reached Odisha’s Bhubaneswar airport on Tuesday afternoon.
Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII) despatched 40,800 vials in 34 packets weighing about 1200 kg in a special SpiceJet flight which arrived at around 3.30 pm at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA).
Reportedly, the consignment has been stored in the State Vaccine Store here in the city amid strict vigil. Besides, adequate security arrangements have been put in place in and around the State Vaccine Store.
Before the launching of the vaccination drive on January 16, the COVID-19 vaccine will be distributed to all the 30 districts of the State.
It may be mentioned here that registered health workers will be vaccinated in the first phase and the state government is all geared up with full-fledged preparedness at 160 session sites comprising all DHHs, CHCs, PHCs, and major hospital. Odisha also successfully conducted two dry runs for COVID-19 vaccination.
