India can avoid a third COVID wave, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India K. VijayRaghavan said on Friday, stressing that, “If we take strong measures, the third COVID wave may not happen in all the places or indeed anywhere.”Dr. VijayRaghavan’s statement comes just two days after he said, “Third COVID wave is inevitable in India given the high levels of virus that is circulating. Responding to a question on when the second wave which has already infected lakhs and killed thousands, will ebb, Dr. VijayRaghavan said it has already started declining in some places. Replying to a question on India approving more COVID vaccines, Dr. Paul said all new vaccines would be allowed in only after they clear the regulatory process. Meanwhile the Health Ministry noted that it has now advised State governments to prioritise due beneficiaries of the second dose for COVID vaccine and ensure timely completion of the recommended vaccination schedule. Also Read Second wave of coronavirus can last up to three months, says IMAStates told to give priority to second dose“State governments have been told to utilise supplies of vaccines in a 70:30 ratio for 2nd dose and 1st dose respectively.

Source: The Hindu May 07, 2021 16:27 UTC