NOIDA/GHAZIABAD: As the districts get ready to vaccinate those over 60 years of age and those over 45 with comorbidities, doctors have suggested that extra precautions be taken for the high-risk group.
Brigadier Rakesh Gupta, director, GIMS, said: “Everyone who is not otherwise immunocompromised or has any other contra-indications can take the
vaccine. Those with severe allergies should avoid the jabs. Those who have already been infected should wait for at least two weeks after recovery before getting the shots. It is safe for everyone else, even those with mild allergies.”
He added that people should take basic precautions and wait at the centre for at least 30 minutes after taking the jab and inform the doctors beforehand about their medicines, blood thinners or allergies beforehand. Doctors said those going to take the jabs should take their routine medication, if they have any, like medicines for blood pressure and diabetes. “Not just for this vaccine but for any intervention, the basic criteria is that a patient should be stable. In case of any health problems, the patient’s own physician should be consulted before the shot is administered,” said Dr Mrinal Sircar, director, pulmonology and critical care, Fortis Hospital, Noida. He added that in all other situations, especially when people are comorbid, the vaccine must be taken.
“Let us not forget that this is the group that is most vulnerable. If they become serious, the death rate might go higher and hence, they need more protection,” said Sircar.
Doctors said that while initially there were guidelines stating that those on blood thinners should not get the jabs, later ICMR guidelines said even such patients can get the vaccine after consulting doctors.
“Some
elderly people use Aspirin regularly, which is also a blood thinner. But that is not a problem. But for those who use blood thinners for a long period of time, like those who have just undergone a surgery, the vaccine can only be administered in consultation with the physician of the patient,” said Sircar. Indian Medical Association president (Ghaziabad) Dr Ashish Agarwal said that many people have reservations about the vaccines and their doubts are valid.
“However, we are telling them that the vaccines are safe and will help in reducing mortality and the rate of infection as well. It is a must for people with comorbidities, except for certain cases. People should also definitely take the second dose after taking the first one. This is the only way that immunity will fully develop,” he added. Dr RP Singh, physician, MMG District Hospital, Ghaziabad, said: “So far, no one has reported a severe reaction to the vaccine, which is a good thing. We are now in a position to say that the vaccine is safe. People who are suffering from hypertension, diabetes or any allergic reaction, should ensure that their condition is under control. In the case of uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure, there are chances of adverse reaction after taking the vaccine. Such people should consult a doctor before getting the jabs. Any person whose comorbidity is under control is considered in the ‘normal’ category. An elderly person must take the vaccine, and the brand does not matter.”