As vaccination campaign draws crowds in Thandwe, gatherings are eyed warily 

By DMG 02 Aug 2021

DMG Newsroom
2 August 2021, Thandwe 

Residents in Thandwe Township, Arakan State, have been receiving the Covid-19 vaccine since July 30, causing crowds that are themselves raising concerns about the potential spread of the virus, according to local social organisations. 

There are fears that the inoculation campaign could actually contribute to viral transmission, and authorities need to take systematic measures to prevent people from gathering, said U Tay Zeinda, who is assisting with virus prevention efforts in the township. 

“Officials need to be careful when vaccinating the public with the Covid-19 vaccine. Now there’s been crowding because of the vaccine. Covid-19 vaccines should be given to the elderly and young at different times. More people are getting the Covid-19 vaccine than ever before,” the monk said. 

A total of 1,430 vaccine doses have been allocated for Thandwe Township in an ongoing initial round of inoculations, with priority given to the elderly, healthcare workers, philanthropists, volunteers and hotel employees, according to an official from Thandwe District General Hospital. 

The public must follow the virus-related regulations issued by the local government to prevent crowds, said Dr. Ye Win Tun, medical superintendent of Thandwe District General Hospital.

“We have compiled a timeline for the Covid-19 vaccination plan. But we are only [responsible for] giving injections, so the administration needs to make it less crowded. The people also need to follow the instructions released by the administrative bodies,” he said 

The Covid-19 vaccination programme is currently being carried out at the Sitagu Eye Hospital in Thandwe. 

Thandwe Township had reported 242 confirmed coronavirus cases as of August 1, with 24 deaths and 38 patients being treated at the hospital. Among Arakan State’s 17 townships, Thandwe has accounted for the third-highest number of Covid-19 deaths to date.