Getting vaccinated is a huge moment in current circumstances as you are not only protecting yourself but also the loved ones around you. Vaccination is an important tool to help us get back to normal. Vaccines help keep you from getting seriously ill even if you do get COVID-19.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe as they have been developed using science that has been around for decades. These vaccines have gone through all the required stages of clinical trials. Extensive testing and monitoring have shown that these vaccines are safe and effective.

Planning for the Vaccination

Do some research before booking the vaccination to know about different types of vaccines available and the way they work. Make sure you read the vaccine information from reliable sources like Ministry of Health, WHO or UNICEF.

If you have any doubt or concerns, consult a doctor or a medical staff.

Serum Institute of India has launched ‘Covishield,’ and Bharat Biotech has introduced ‘Covaxin.’ These two are majorly available across vaccination centers. The imported brand Sputnik V has also received approval for use in India. 

Vaccine Eligibility

Anybody above the age of 18 can book slots and get vaccinated as per Indian government guidelines.

Vaccination Registration

Vaccination registration is an important step as you will get vaccine as per your booked slot and center. You can register through the Co-Win website https://www.cowin.gov.in/home or Arogya Setu app.

Follow these steps for vaccination registration:

• Get yourself registered using your mobile number and a valid photo ID. Enter all other details as required.
• After this, you will be shown the list of available centers for vaccination.
• Book your time slot for vaccination as per your convenience and confirm the appointment
• You will get confirmation on your registered mobile number about the date, time, and name of the vaccination center.

Before the Vaccination

• Make sure you have a mask, hand sanitizer, Appointment confirmation message, Photo ID and a travel plan to get to your center on time.
• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated before the vaccination.
• Wear loose or short sleeves at the time of vaccination that can be rolled up easily, so that health workers have easy access to your arm.
• If you have any health issues or are taking any medications, including any pain killers, tell your health provider or vaccinator. It is a good idea to consult a doctor before going for the vaccination for such cases.
• Avoid excess alcohol intake as it may dehydrate you before the vaccination.
• If you notice any Covid-like symptoms, then cancel your appointment and rebook at a later point of time.

After the Vaccination

Observation Period

• Stay at the vaccination center after the vaccination for observation period as instructed

by the vaccination staff.

Typically, they will ask you to stay in an observation area for 15-30 minutes to monitor vaccine reaction on your body if any.

• Severe side effects are very rare, but could include Itching, Fainting, Vomiting, Severe allergic reaction, Wheezing, difficulties in breathing or shortness of breath. Severe side effects are most likely to appear in the first 30 minutes after being vaccinated. 
• If you start experiencing any of these symptoms, let the health worker know immediately.

Expect some minor side effects

Some side effects are normal and expected after the Vaccination. Side effects are a sign that the vaccine is working, and your body is building immune protection. Common side effects after Vaccination includes:

• Slight pain, swelling and redness on the arm where vaccine is taken
• Mild fever with or without chills
• Tiredness and Headaches
• Joint pain or muscle ache

These side effects typically do not last long and go away within a few days.

Care for the arm where your vaccine was injected

You can reduce any pain or discomfort in the arm where you got the vaccine, by applying a cool, clean, wet washcloth over the area.

Plan for second dose

Download your vaccination certificate and mark your calendar for second dose of the vaccine.

Keep up preventive measures 

Remember that the antibodies that develop after the second dose of the vaccine reach a protective level after 15 days. Also, COVID-19 vaccines have proven effective at stopping people developing the virus, but we do not yet know whether they prevent people from passing infection onto others. Hence, be careful and do not relax the preventive measures.

Continue to protect yourself and others from Covid -19 by following these steps:

• Washing your hands with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds or using hand sanitizers frequently.
• Keeping at least 6 feet distance between yourself and others. 
• Meeting people in well ventilated, or outdoor spaces only if absolutely required.
• Wearing a mask whenever you are in public space.  

Stay Safe and Get Vaccinated