Chief Adviser to the President Lalith Weeratunga says that the covid vaccine is an independent decision and will not be forcibly vaccinated.
He says that the people are selected for the vaccination program using the list of the National Election Commission. However, no decision has been taken at this time regarding the “Resident visa holders” who are not mentioned in the documents, but a decision will be taken soon.
The Indian authorities have decided to provide 500,000 doses of the Astra-Seneca Covshield vaccine manufactured in India as a gift to Sri Lanka. The consignment is to be brought to Sri Lanka by an Indian aircraft tomorrow (28) afternoon.
Priority will be given to health workers attached to the public service, security forces and police officers who contribute to the eradication of covid. The second dose is given 3 weeks after the first dose.
Weeratunga said that steps were being taken to provide the necessary vaccines to others, adding that the vaccinations would be provided free of charge to all.
Priority will be given to persons over 60 years of age. Lalith Weeratunga says that when the vaccine is given, a consent form and a signature will be obtained.