Maharashtra halts Covaxin jab for 18-44 age group, stock to be diverted for those above 45

The Maharashtra government has said it will divert three lakh vials of Covaxin meant for the 18-44 age group for the use of the people aged 45 years and above. Maharashtra Health Minister said only 35,000 vials of Covaxin are currently available with the state government for administering the second dose to people above 45 years.

Amid a shortage of Covid-19 vaccine doses across the country, Maharashtra has suspended vaccination for those in the 18-44 age group who want Covaxin. The government on Tuesday said it decided to divert three lakh vials of Covaxin meant for the 18-44 age group for the use of people aged 45 years and above. There is a dearth of vaccines hence we're considering holding off vaccination drive temporarily for 18-44 age group. 2.75 lakh vaccine doses left for this group, that'll be used for 45 yrs & above group now. Administering 2nd dose is priority: Maharashtra Health Min Rajesh Tope pic.twitter.com/KkJ4e9U9MW — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2021 Speaking to reporters, Maharashtra health minister Rajesh Tope on Tuesday said the Covaxin stock will be diverted to those above 45 years of age who are due for a second dose of the Covid vaccine.