In recent days, huge crowds have descended upon the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), which has been turned into a major COVID-19 vaccination centre, to get the jabs. Though the authorities have been inviting those eligible for the vaccine through prior appointments, the rumours that walk-in registration and vaccination is allowed led to thousands gathering at the venue, which has at times led to disregard for social distancing at the venue. The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has taken notice of this and reminded the public that only those with appointment should proceed for the vaccination.
MoPH said it was working with the authorities to ensure strict enforcement of social distancing and other COVID-19 preventive measures at the venue. But people should not forget that it is entirely on the authorities to ensure everybody follows the required measures put in place to keep the spread of the virus checked.
The fact that a few people who approached centre without an appointment for vaccination received the shot should not be considered as an opportunity for everybody who is not invited there. The staff manning the centre are working under tremendous pressure as healthy authorities are racing against time vaccinate to all eligible people within the targeted deadline.
The authorities in the country under the supervision of the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management have been very vigilant to avoid a coronavirus catastrophe in Qatar, right from the day the first case was detected here. Through a number of timely press conferences, media campaign etc they have been spreading the message about the seriousness of the situation and appealing to people to strictly follow precautionary measures.
No country in the world can control the spread of the pandemic without the cooperation of the people. Every agency in the country, whether it is law enforcement agencies, different ministries or health care professionals cannot ward off a pandemic of this magnitude. Every person in the country has a responsibility to themselves, their families, relatives and more importantly to the country. In these times of struggles it is a national duty of each person to chip in whatever way he/she can help prevent this virus from reaching a point of explosion.
Qatar’s vaccination programme is progressing at lightening speed, and the country has several times reassured that everybody will get the vaccine free. Now, our duty is to be patient and wait for our chance to come for the vaccination. It is dangerous to pile more pressure on the authorities especially the already overstretched health care system. Don't drop the guard, be responsible and strictly follow all the health measures.
