• Although the expected percentage of people for receiving the booster dose was around 50 percent, the percentage currently stands as low as 20 percent

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

With Sri Lanka on the verge of an Omicron-fueled wave, Health authorities are extremely concerned over hesitancy shown by the general public in receiving the booster dose despite constant reminders that Omicron can be contained with the booster shot.  

Speaking to Daily Mirror,   COVID-19 Coordinator Dr. Anwar Hamdani said a considerable reluctance is shown by people in getting themselves boosted over baseless myths.   
“Although we expected the percentage of people who receive the booster dose to be around 50 percent, the percentage currently stands at 20 percent,” he stated.  

“If people continue to forgo the booster, everyone will have to pay the price in the long run. Thus, we urge people to get the booster shot as early as possible without being carried away by myths,” Dr Hamdani stressed.   

Meanwhile, Director General of Health Services Dr Asela Gunawardena said the Health Ministry has decided to expedite the vaccination drive considering the reluctance shown by general public.   

“Accordingly, three additional vaccination centres will be set up in each MOH area. Besides, all hospitals have also been informed to keep their vaccination centres open until 8.00 pm to facilitate people to get the vaccine,” he underscored.  

“Furthermore, anyone who is unable to reach a vaccination centre, can inform the nearest MOH office so that a mobile service could be arranged,’ he added.  

• If people continue to forgo the booster, everyone will have to pay the price in the long run