Though scientists are still researching on Covid-19 vaccine, it is clear that there are many benefits in getting vaccinated. 

COVID-19 and Its Consequences

  • Getting affected by COVID-19 leads to serious consequences. It can cause severe illness or death even in children and the effects are unpredictable. 
  • It may cause mild or severe illness. But after COVID-19, infection people can experience long term health issues irrespective of the symptoms they initially infected with. 
  • The spread of this virus is vigorous among friends, family and acquaintances who get contact with the infected person. 
  • People at increased risk are severely affected by COVID-19.

Facts to be noted before getting vaccinated:

  • COVID-19 vaccine lowers the risk of being affected by the COVID-19 virus. It prevents severe illness-causing effects and death.
  • It is safe and effective for people more than five years of age and above age group people.
  • People who are affected by the COVID-19 virus can also be given the vaccine.
  • When you are up to date on COVID-19 vaccination, you are safe to resume daily activities taking proper precautions.

Benefits of having COVID-19 vaccine:

1. A safer way to prevent the COVID-19 virus:

Prevention is better than cure. It is the safest way to build protection rather than being affected by the COVID-19 virus. COVID-19 vaccine protects you by creating an antibody response.

2. COVID-19 vaccines are safe for both adults and Children:

  • Vaccinations against COVID-19 with a WHO EUL are safe for most people who are 18 years old and older, including those with preexisting conditions of any kind, including auto-immune disorders. Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma, pulmonary, liver, kidney, and chronic infections that are well controlled are included here.
  • While COVID-19 vaccines were developed at a faster pace, still they are ensured safe and effective. Millions of people have received COVID-19 vaccines. A growing number of COVID-19 vaccines given are the evidence that the benefits of vaccines outweigh the known and potential risks.
  • The scientists who formulated the COVID-19 vaccine recommended it for children ages five and older after completing clinical trials with thousands of adults and children and finding no severe safety concerns.
  • The ones who received the COVID-19 vaccine can enroll themselves in safety monitoring. Parents or caregivers can enter their children’s information by creating their own accounts.

3. How Effective is the COVID-19 vaccine?

  • COVID-19 vaccines are effective and lower the risk of getting affected by the virus. The vaccine also protects the people who do get exposed to the virus by lowering the risk of death and severe illness in both children and adults.
  • Patients who take medications that weaken their immune system or who have certain medical conditions may not be fully protected even after completing the primary vaccination series. Some Immunocompromised individuals should receive a second primary dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, along with a booster shot. 

4. How long will the COVID-19 vaccine last?

  • Recent studies suggest that COVID-19 vaccines become less effective over time at preventing infection and severe illness, especially for people 65 and older.
  • Booster shots are therefore recommended for individuals ages 12 and older who have finished their primary vaccination series. 
  • Although the vaccine’s ability to prevent infection is decreasing with time, COVID-19 vaccination continues to reduce the risk of hospitalization and death when people become infected with COVID-19.

5. Reliable and builds protection:

  • The level of natural immunity that builds after people get COVID-19 varies with every individual. It may depend on how mild or severe the illness was when they get affected, what their age is, etc.  There is no antibody test available to testify a person is further protected against infection.
  • The COVID-19 vaccines currently available are all effective against COVID-19. Most people are well protected against COVID-19 when they stay up-to-date on their vaccinations.
  • Even if you already had COVID-19, you should still receive the vaccine. New evidence suggests that getting a COVID-19 vaccine after recovering from a COVID-19 infection can boost your immunity.

6. Up to date: Start resuming the daily activities:

  • When you are up to date on the COVID-19 vaccination, you can start your daily routine and avoid wearing a mask in public. 
  • People who are up to date on COVID-19 vaccination can travel anywhere in the world without getting tested. They are not restricted to work or going to school following exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
  • If you have come into close contact with someone who has COVID-19, make sure you are up to date on your vaccination. Test at least five days after your last close contact with a person who has COVID-19. Wear a well-fitting mask around others for ten days.
  • Once you are vaccinated, your body is much better prepared to shield off more viruses by making your immune system stronger.

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Which COVID-19 vaccines are licensed in India?

Covishield® (AstraZeneca's vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India) and Covaxin® (manufactured by Bharat Biotech Limited) were both approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in India for emergency use. EUA was granted to Sputnik - V in April 2021.

Why do some people get fever after taking COVID-19 vaccine?

An antigen present in the vaccine triggers this immune response. Increased blood flow in the body facilitates the circulation of immune cells that protect the body. Consequently, fever can result from an increase in body temperature.

What are some possible complications after recovering from COVID-19?

After recovering from acute COVID-19 illness, patients may experience various signs and symptoms, including fatigue, body aches, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, etc.

Why do I need a COVID-19 vaccination certificate?

COVID Vaccine Certificates (CVC) issued by the government assure the beneficiary regarding vaccination, type of vaccine used, and next vaccination due date. It is also evidence of vaccination that can be presented to any entity requesting proof of vaccination, especially when traveling. Vaccination not only protects from disease but also reduces the risk of the virus spreading. Therefore, it may become necessary to produce a certificate to engage in certain kinds of social interactions and travel abroad in the future.

Is the COVID-19 vaccine in India just as effective as the ones distributed in other countries?

Yes, the COVID-19 vaccine launched in India will be as effective as any other vaccine developed elsewhere. Several tests are performed on vaccines to ensure they are safe and effective.

Should I get vaccinated against Covid-19 if I am breastfeeding?

The COVID-19 vaccination should be given to breastfeeding mothers as soon as they are due. Currently, none of the COVID-19 vaccines contain a live virus. Because the vaccine does not transmit COVID-19 via breast milk, your baby is not at risk. The antibodies you receive from vaccination can go through your breast milk and protect the baby.