NEW DELHI: The report of fifth sero-prevalence survey indicated that Delhi population could be heading towards attaining herd immunity against coronavirus infection. The survey has found that in one district, 50-60 per cent of the sampled population has developed antibodies to Covid-19, according to sources.For the survey, which ended a few days ago, samples of over 25,000 people from various districts were collected.
As per an official from the district magistrate, the sero-prevalence rate is between 50-60 per cent, indicating a large number of people have developed antibodies.The first sero-prevalence, done from June 27-July 10 by the Delhi government in association with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) found that around 23 per cent had an exposure to the coronavirus.“On January 25, 7,408 people were administered vaccine, with a coverage span of 91.5 per cent. AEFI (adverse events following immunisation) was reported in 14 persons,” a senior official of the Delhi Health Department said.
The targeted number for vaccination on January 25 was 8,100, they said.The vaccination drive was off to a slow start on January 16. While on the first day the figures could cross half of the target, on the second scheduled day, the figures had stood at 3,598 (44 per cent of the target). The sharp fall had come after one severe and 50 minor adverse effect cases were reported, on the opening day of the vaccination drive.
The count on the third schedule day was much higher, at 4,936 (48 per cent). On Saturday, it improved to 86 percent.
On Monday, the count was 110 at the Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital and 100 at the Delhi State Cancer Institute, a doctor at RGSSH said. At Lok Nayak hospital for the third consecutive day 100 healthcare workers have been vaccinated. As per sources more than 40 hospitals in the city had inoculated 100 or more than 100 hcws.Various reasons were being attributed to the low turnout in the initial days, including some technical issues and apprehensions related to adverse events.