Covid-19 Vaccine is Safe, People Need Not to Fear

by Dr Navneet Kaur

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc worldwide. A massive vaccination drive has been initiated in the country and currently, the vaccine is administered only to healthcare workers. Two Covid-19 vaccines, Covaxin and Covishield which are approved by the drug control authority are safe and one can get vaccinated without fear. Do not make any assumptions and spread rumors about the side-effects as these vaccines are approved for emergency use.  Ones with poor information will be educated and encouraged to get vaccinated and stay healthy.

India carried out the 5th highest number of COVID-19 vaccinations by inoculating 2.03 million people till January 26, reveals the Health Ministry data. India administered the COVID-19 vaccine to 8.4 million people in one month since the launching of a massive vaccination programme on January 16.  Now, looking at the surge in the number of Covid cases, the doctors are appealing to the common people to get vaccinated and protect themselves from Covid-19.

Vaccine is a live attenuated virus. Currently, the doctor and paramedics are getting vaccinated and haven’t experienced any serious side-effects. Children are not yet permitted to take the vaccination. One may encounter mild flu-like symptoms like chill, fevers, muscle pain, or sore throat that can be easily managed with the help of a doctor. A booster dose is given after 28 days, then the antibodies cycle begins and one will have adequate antibodies to fight Coronavirus. Thu, vaccination will protect you by creating an antibody (immune system) response without  having to experience  any health issues.

But, many people believe in rumors and may not turn up to get the job as they also wait for the reactions of vaccination on others. Covid-19 vaccines do not contain the live virus causing Covid-19, and will not make you sick. It helps you protect yourself, your family, and the community. The combination of getting vaccinated and following the Covid protocol is the recipe for a healthy life. Wear a mask, maintain social distance, wash and sanitize your hands frequently, avoid crowded places and disinfect surfaces from time to time.

The writer is Dr Navneet Kaur, General Physician, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Nehru Enclave, Delhi