SubscriberWrites: No need to vaccinate entire population to control pandemic – target those who go out most

Vaccine is the first shield of defense. A defending army never aims to kill each and every member of the enemy but to slow down the advance, says Ashish Patki.

By
Ashish Patki
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Two beneficiaries receiving Covid-19 vaccinations simultaneously in Dadar, Mumbai | Representational image: ANI
Two beneficiaries receiving Covid-19 vaccinations | Representational image | ANI

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A lot is being said about being able to vaccinate the entire population of India. Whilst this may be a good wish to have, will it really be practical in the light of costs, supply of vaccines and ability to dispense vaccines?

Vaccine as I understand will act as the first shield of defence. A defending army never aims to kill each and every member of the enemy. The aim is to stop or slow down the advance. The same ought to be the strategy in vaccinating as well.

Also considering the fact the exercise will not be a single time exercise (unlike BCG), the Vaccine will be like a subscription and will need to be renewed.  The aim to vaccinate each and every individual should not end up being the legendary story of painting the Howrah bridge ( by the time you are halfway through, it’s time to restart painting the part again).

My suggestion is that the target for vaccination ought to be the individuals who need to step out of the house and mingle with a lot of people, as opposed to older people who may be able to stay at home safely. Taxi drivers, courier and delivery boys, restaurants, employees, journalists may therefore be the focus group. The idea would be the biggest bang for the buck, and stopping the spread of the disease through those who could otherwise be carriers. 

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