Amid queries regarding the COVID-19 vaccination, PGIMER Chandigarh Professor Dr. Sonu Goel answered some of the confusions that pop into the mind before getting the coronavirus vaccine.
Dr. Sonu Goel is a Professor, Department of Community Medicine & School of Public Health, PGIMER, Chandigarh. He is also a Principal Investigator of a pioneering initiative 'Strengthening Management of Hypertension Services Project' (SMHSP).
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Dr Goel has devised a ready reckoner for all your FAQs' (Frequently Asked Questions) related to COVID-19 vaccination to make the road ahead as far as the vaccination process is concerned less bumpy. We present the responses to some very pertinent FAQs' for the benefit of all stakeholders in the vaccine initiative.
Who all are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination?
The criteria for administration of COVID-19 vaccination have been devised for groups who are most at risk of exposure or developing serious illnesses. The first prioritised group is healthcare and frontline workers, followed by persons over 45 years of age. Now, individuals from 18-45 years of age are also eligible for vaccination.
Which COVID-19 vaccines are licensed in India?
Covishield and Covaxin are the two, however, other Sputnik V from Russia have recently been approved by the Govt. of India and will be administered soon.
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How many shots of vaccine are needed?
Two doses of the coronavirus vaccine, 4-6 weeks apart for Covaxin and 3 months apart for Covishield, need to be taken by an individual to complete the vaccination schedule.
Which vaccine is more effective?
There is no head-to-head comparison done between the two vaccines being used in India so one cannot choose one over the other.
What is the benefit of getting vaccinated for COVID-19?
The vaccine prevents you from getting the disease in the form of severe illness. After the vaccine, we have hardly any hospital admissions and the requirement for ICU admissions is almost negligible. However, it may not prevent you from getting the infection.
Are there any side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine? Where can I report the side effects of the vaccine?
The safety of the COVID-19 Vaccine is scientifically proven. As with other vaccines, minor adverse events such as mild to moderate fever, local pain and swelling at the injection site, malaise etc. may be expected following COVID-19 vaccination. In case of any side effects, you may contact the nearby health facility or you may call helpline number 1075 to report the side effects of the vaccine.
Is COVID-19 vaccination mandatory?
Vaccination for COVID-19 is voluntary. However, it is advisable to receive the complete schedule of the COVID-19 vaccine for protecting oneself against this disease and also to limit the spread of this disease to close contacts including family members, friends, relatives, and co-workers.
Why vaccination is not provided to children and pregnant women? What about lactating mothers?
It has recently been recommended for lactating mothers. There are some clinical trials now underway to test the effectiveness and safety of the COVID-19 vaccines in the groups like children and pregnant women.
Can a person presently having COVID-19 (confirmed or suspected) infection be vaccinated?
The infected individuals should defer vaccination for 3 months after symptoms resolution for the next dose.
Who should avoid getting both doses of vaccination?
Persons with a history of any Anaphylactic or allergic reaction to a previous dose of COVID-19 vaccine; immediate or delayed-onset anaphylaxis or allergic reaction to a vaccine should avoid the completion of the coronavirus vaccine.
Do I need to use the mask/other COVID-19 appropriate precautions after receiving the vaccine?
Yes, it is absolutely necessary that everyone who has received the COVID-19 vaccine should continue to follow the COVID-19 appropriate behavior i.e., mask, ‘do gaj ki doori’ and hand sanitization to protect themselves and those around from spreading the infection.
How long will I remain protected after vaccination?
The longevity of the immune response in vaccinated individuals is yet to be determined. Hence, continuing the use of masks, handwashing, physical distancing, and other COVID-19 appropriate behaviors are strongly recommended.
Can patients with HT(Hypertension)/DM (Diabetes Mellitus) or other comorbidities take coronavirus Vaccine?
They must get vaccinated, and may contact a treating doctor in case of any serious illness.
What is the importance of getting a vaccination certificate?
A vaccination certificate is verifiable proof of COVID-19 vaccination that you can use to establish that you have been vaccinated in cases where any such requirement is specified.
What is the efficacy of the vaccine and when would antibodies develop after the vaccination?
Available data is not sufficient to comment on how long the vaccine is efficacious. Protective levels of antibodies will generally develop two weeks after receiving the 2nd dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Is the vaccine effective on the new variant of COVID-19?
Yes, it provides a reasonable amount of protection against the new variant of COVID-19 too.
Does a vaccinated person still need to go through the quarantine process during/after travel?
Yes, vaccines are for self-protection and the status of being vaccinated does not imply that the person is not carrying or transmitting the disease.
I have few allergies, would there be any allergy test for vaccine suitability and how to get it done?
No, the Government of India is not suggesting/conducting an allergy test before the vaccination.
Can I have the two vaccine doses in different cities/states?
Yes, you can get vaccinated in any State/District. The only restriction is that you will be able to get vaccinated only in those centres which are offering the same vaccine as was administered to you on your first dose.
What about those who are on medication for illnesses like cancer, diabetes, hypertension etc?
Persons with one or more of these comorbid conditions are considered in the high-risk category. Even for other chronic diseases like cardiac, neurological, pulmonary, metabolic, renal etc. vaccines should be taken. Those concerned should adhere to the ongoing treatment and should get vaccinated.
Could I drink alcohol before and after vaccination?
It is advisable to avoid drinking for at least 2 days prior to vaccination and at least 3 weeks after vaccination as drinking may interfere in the production of adequate antibodies in the body.
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