Friends, I am back with my blog after spending 8 days in isolation and then a few more days to gain strength due to Covid infection.
Now India is in the midst of the third wave of Covid, and the third- wave spread very fast. While at times, it brings despair, we have to look at the positive side of things to move forward. It is now an accepted fact that the Covid is here to stay. We need to learn to live with it by taking precautions, adopting certain lifestyle changes, and making the best out of the situation. There is no need to stop life or enjoyment because of Covid. It is just that we need to be aware and ensure maximum prevention.
The good news is that, despite the surge, hospitalization and mortality rates have come down across the country. This is because the virus has mutated, perhaps too milder form, and also, the vaccinations are helping. Across the world, BOOSTER DOSES are also being given to ensure that people stay safe. The country has launched vaccinations for the 15-17 years age group and booster doses for health care and already double vaccinated people. But, perhaps, some may still be wondering about how, why, when, and where of the booster doses.
What is a booster dose?
As the name suggests, this is the third dose of Covid vaccine, which boosts immunity against infection. A booster is suggested because the immunity from the previous doses starts waning after six months or so. Therefore, bringing it backs becomes important.
Booster vaccines
As of now, India has only approved Covishield and Covaxine for booster doses. Clarity on the Sputnik booster dose is still awaited yet. Also, currently, the govt of India has not approved the mixing of vaccines. Therefore, it is important to check this before making the appointment for your booster dose. It means that if you have earlier taken a Covishield shot, the booster to has to be the same, and same for Covaxine.
Eligibility
The first priority is for health worker or above 60 years old with some comorbidities, which for booster dose now are hypertension, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Recently govt announced that any one who has already taken the double dose of vaccine are also eligible for 3rd dose. The condition for all the categories is there should be nine month gap between your second dose and the booster dose
How to get it?
Getting a booster dose is as easy as walking into any govt or private vaccination centre. You may also follow the COWIN registration and appointment booking option. It has a precaution dose tab to complete the process. This process can be followed using the Arogya Setu app too. If you are eligible, it will show you the options of vaccination slot availability for making the appointment. Just make sure that it is the same vaccine as earlier to avid a last minute mix up.
Why is booster important?
Studies have shown that a booster third dose provides as much as 90% protection to senior citizens against hospitalization, even after three months after the booster is given. Therefore, if we have to learn to live with the virus, a booster may be one of the best prevention methods to adopt. Please note that it is now called a ‘precaution dose’.
So, perhaps it is time to plan and get your precaution dose and try to go about your life as normal as possible but do not drop your guard.
It looks like Covid is here to stay for some time more, and we have to learn to live with the same, and getting a booster dose of vaccine is a safe option.
Waiting, for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
17th January 2022
Vijay Bapat
Hi,
Any idea about Booster dose to sr citizens who have taken both the shots abroad. Like Pfizer, and Moderna, and come back India ?
Tejinder Singh Sethi
It will be a homologous third or precautionary dose. Those who have received Covaxin will receive Covaxin and those who have earlier received primary two doses of Covishield will receive Covishield,”