THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that the state will formulate long-term plans for the manufacture of the COVID vaccine. The CM also said that the companies are interested in setting up vaccine manufacturing units using the site of the Life Science Park in connection with the Institute of Virology.

"The state is expected to receive more vaccines in the first week of June. Vaccination will be intensified if received. The maximum number of vaccines will be given by June 15. The vaccine will be given to inmates of all old-age homes as soon as possible. Vaccines will be given to those above 45 years of age in tribal colonies," he said.

"A plan will be prepared to make the vaccine available to all inpatients. When vaccination for the 18-44 age group began, 32 categories of people were given priority as per the order issued on May 19. As per the new order issued on May 24, 11 new categories have been added to the priority group. It also includes those who have to go abroad for employment and study," he added.