The world's largest vaccination program was launched in India on January 16 to fight the SARS-CoV-2 virus. India has so far approved two vaccines – Oxford University developed Covishield and Bharat Biotech's Covaxin. Covaxin has got emergency use authorisation.
As the vaccination program is in progress, there are many doubts which have clouded our minds. CitySpidey contacted Dr Shubhank Singh, Centre Head of Medanta Mediclinic, Defence Colony, to address the FAQs.
Many people have now started questioning the use of masks after getting vaccinated. Dr Singh says that people should continue SMS (sanitisation, masks, and social distancing) until the world is Covid-free. "The vaacine is not just for the protection of healthy individuals from Covid-19 but also for the protection of vulnerable patients suffering from heart and lung diseases," Dr Singh adds.
Does the vaccine ensure complete safety from the virus? "We must continue to follow all guidelines like we have been doing to date. We should also take care of our surroundings as there are many who have low immunity and they are still susceptible to the virus," Dr Singh says.
On the question of schools being allowed to reopen in the city, Dr Singh said that online classes should continue. According to him, thinking that one can not infect someone else after getting vaccinated is the wrong approach. "This virus is very unpredictable. We have to take all precautions till there is more clarity about it," he adds.
The doctor also said that if someone gets injured or has side effects then they should directly contact the officials on the helpline numbers provided by the government. The vaccination is not just for protection from coronavirus but also for protection from heart and lung diseases, Dr Singh adds.
