The National Taskforce and NITAG are in dialogue to introduce COVID19 vaccine for children between 5 and 11 years, said Bhutan Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering.

“We are also closely studying the science and evidence around booster dose,” Bhutan PM Tshering said in a Facebook post on Wednesday.

“This is to remind and encourage everyone to keep up with the safety provisions as we continue to live in a pandemic,” the Bhutan PM said.

New cases are mounting up around the world, with some nations reintroducing the restrictions to prevent the spread of the disease, he said.

“Bhutan has fared well so far with only a few cases recorded in the quarantine facilities and no community case for almost 95 days,” Dr Tshering claimed.

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“For information, we are still going strong with our routine of gathering reports on COVID19 status from across the country and calling it a day only after ascertaining the facts. Any adverse outcome can force us to declare a lockdown anytime,” the Bhutan PM wrote.

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However, the towns and communities in the country are witnessing larger and frequent gatherings, with many disregarding even the basic standards like wearing masks.

This is happening in the backdrop of frequent reports of people illegally crossing over from the borders.

“If memories serve us well, we have experienced lockdown after a four to five months interval since the start of the pandemic. If the pattern is anything to go by, we have approached the period and advancing winter months that favour transmission of virus is no consolation,” he said.

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“For all these reasons, we will reinforce the monitoring on the ground to sail through the strategic months ahead. Any slack around this time will render our all our efforts and sacrifices futile,” Dr Tshering stated.

Since the situation is so volatile, the Bhutan PM reminded once again that “our homes be prepared with adequate food stock and essentials to last at least a week at a given time. The mad rush as soon as we declare a lockdown will only aggravate spread of the disease in the community.”

The PM said, “the complacency can put to risk many of our people, particularly our children, elderlies and those who are unvaccinated”.

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“We have always remained guided by His Majesty’s command to adopt highest standards and preventive measures for our people. We will strive for that,” he said.

The Bhutan PM urged the people of the country to maintain utmost caution and avoid non-essential gatherings.

If anyone has flu symptoms, the PM asked them to visit the clinics and get tested.

He said the Bhutan government will keep everyone updated on the situation.

“Let us endure the tough times together with the hope that it will not last forever. Together, we can win against all odds,” he further said.