After two years of grappling with Covid and its resultant crises (health and economy), 2022 has been a year without significant fatalities. People had returned to their pre-Covid lifestyles and breathed a sigh of relief.
However, the world has been alarmed by the news of a prospective new wave of Covid. Covid cases are rising in China. A new sub-variant of Omicron is the reason behind the new cases.
Rising Covid cases in China have brought the international scanner on the new sub-lineage of Omicron, BF.7. The number of Covid cases in the US, South Korea and Brazil has also increased, as per reports. In most likelihood, it has appeared in many European countries as well.
A handful of cases have been found in India as well.
The Union Health Ministry has reassured the nation that there has not been an overall increase in caseload and the situation is being monitored. All states have been requested to continue genome sequencing to track the progress of this new sub-variant and understand it better.
What we know for certain is that Omicron BF.7 is much more transmissible than its precursors. It has an R-value of 10-18.6, meaning one infected person can spread it to between ten to eighteen people.
But is it more dangerous than the other variants? Most likely, it isn’t. However, as is the nature of all viruses, Covid variants are mutating and this is why Omicron BF.7 may be able to dodge immunity formed by vaccination or by prior exposure and become more transmissible.
It is too early to say what dimensions this new situation will take. The vaccination response in India has been a rousing success and most of the population has been vaccinated.
In this context, doctors are recommending the booster dose to people. We also have a new intranasal vaccine now available on Co-Win App for precautionary doses.
According to many reports, only about 4% of the population chose to get the booster shot. Now would be a good time to get the booster jab. It will shore up immunity to ready us for a possible new outbreak.
The good news is some experts are stating that the infections may not be anywhere close to as severe as those caused by the Delta variant. There will likely not be a drop in oxygen saturation level or breathing issues. But given the number of deaths reported in China, we must be careful and exercise all precautions.
But the volume of cases, owing to how contagious the variant is, is a little worrying.
BF.7, being a sublineage of Omicron, will likely present Omicron-like symptoms. As we have seen in previous waves- this variant can cause a full spectrum of diseases ranging from asymptomatic to severe illness.
Let’s not panic but follow Covid appropriate behaviour sincerely. Here are some tips-
Covid was never gone. Like influenza, it may always stay with us. But through immunisation (by both infection and vaccination) and the passage of time, the population becomes better equipped to deal with a virus. However, that does not mean we can reject caution. As and when the government suggests, we should follow Covid mandates so that we can quickly return to our normal lives.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
India has made another breakthrough in the war against the Covid pandemic with its first intranasal Covid vaccine, iNCOVACC, created by Bharat Biotech. The intranasal Covid vaccine was approved by DCGI (Drug Controller General of India) in September 2022 and then by CDSCO in November 2022 for restricted use under emergency situations for people 18 years and above. iNCOVACC- the intranasal covid vaccine will now be available under the Covid vaccination program in India. This needle-free Covid vaccine, which is easy to administer, can also be used as a booster for people who have received previous doses of any approved Covid vaccines(heterologous booster).
iNCOVACC intranasal vaccine is a type of recombinant vaccine, meaning that it is created with an adenovirus vector. This kind of vaccine is made after extracting only a tiny piece of the DNA from the concerned bacterium or virus for which immunity is to be built and is inserted into the cells while manufacturing them. It is made with a pre-fusion spike protein that is stabilised. The vaccine has been formulated so that intranasal delivery is possible through nasal drops. The nasal delivery system has been developed cost-effectively, keeping in mind middle-income and low-income countries.
iNCOVACC is a nasal vaccine to be administered twice at intervals of four weeks (28 days). Four drops will be administered into each nostril, thus totalling eight drops (0.5 mL dose in total).
To be eligible for this vaccine, candidates must be 18 years and above.
You should not get the iNCOVACC vaccine if you have any of the following conditions:
· If allergic to any of the ingredients listed on the vaccine label.
· If you experienced an allergic reaction after the first dose.
· You should not take the vaccine if you are suffering from fever or acute infection.
At the time of getting the vaccine, you should mention the following to your healthcare provider:
Since this vaccine is a comparatively newer invention, it is yet to be found what the effects of the vaccine can have on pregnant women or what effects it can generate upon interaction with other medications. However, for safety, it is best recommended to consult your healthcare provider before taking this nasal vaccine if you are on any doctor-prescribed medication or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding your child.
Concerning the clinical trials conducted, the following side effects have been noticed:
· Fever
· Headache
· Sneezing
· Runny nose
Once opened, The multi-dose vial should be used as soon as practically possible and within 6 hours when kept between +2 to +8°C. iNCOVACC should be discarded at the end of the immunisation session or within 6 hours, whichever comes first. Vials must not be frozen.
The iNCOVACC vaccine has been designed to provide immunity against COVID-19, a viral disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 of the coronavirus family. The COVID-19 infection has caused massive damage to people’s health, economy and social-political standing since it spread globally in the earlier part of 2020. The virus spread as a result of people-to-people contact and respiratory droplets.
The iNCOVACC vaccine has been designed to provide immunity against COVID-19, a viral disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. The COVID-19 infection has caused massive damage to people’s health, economy and social-political standing since it spread globally in 2020. With the increase in Covid cases in China, the US, Brazil and other parts of the world, we must amp up our guards and reduce the risk of exposure to Covid infection in all possible ways. Approval of nasal covid vaccine can help speed up the vaccination drive of precaution doses in India.
By following proper safety measures and other standard COVID-19 protocols, we can fight the novel coronavirus disease.
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
The fourth and the biggest phase of the COVID-19 vaccination drive commenced on May 1, 2021. Registrations have finally opened up for all the population above the age of eighteen. We are going through a time when our nation is struggling with the worst crisis since the beginning of the pandemic. In this situation, getting vaccinated is the need of the hour for us.
However, several myths are doing the rounds, clouding people’s judgement about taking the vaccine. And one such misinformation surfacing on social media and WhatsApp forwards is that women should not get vaccinated during menstruation. We urge you to not rely on unverified sources for such content and verify the facts from a doctor.
As they say, it is important that you take anything you find on social media with a pinch of salt. The vaccine does not affect your period. In fact, the COVID-19 vaccines are one of our best preventive tools to fight the deadly virus and tide over this second wave of the pandemic.
To start with, there is no actual data or evidence to connect COVID-19 vaccines to your menstrual cycle. Millions of women worldwide have already taken the vaccine and no worrying claims were recorded anywhere. It is a vaccine that you need to take as soon as you can. Presently, the vaccine is safe for all women above the age of eighteen.
We also need to understand that the menstrual cycle is a natural bodily process that does not decrease or limit the immune response of your body. Menstruation comes with hormonal changes that might minimally impact the way you react to side effects or an illness. However, it absolutely does not decrease your immunity.
Hormones like progesterone and estrogen fluctuate before a woman is on her period. It might lead to PMS (premenstrual syndrome) but does not impact your immunity. You can and should schedule vaccination at your convenience and not avoid taking it because you are on your period.
Vaccines do not affect your menstrual cycle. However, we are going through a time when stress, mental strain and anxiety are at their peak. Stress might cause some variations in your period pattern, such as making them mildly heavy, slightly irregular or maybe even missing them for a month. Even if you do not get your period, it will not affect the efficacy of the vaccine. There is absolutely no correlation between menstruation and vaccination.
Also, having a slightly irregular or delayed period for a month is not a cause for worry. You should consult a doctor only if your periods are irregular every month.
Did you know?
Vaccines work on our bodies by injecting an inactive or modified pathogen to start an immune response. Your menstrual cycle or any other bodily processes cannot impact this reaction. So it is as safe for women to get vaccinated as it is for men. The occurrence of side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine is heterogeneous. We do not have enough evidence to link the side effects to a particular gender or age.
So, what about those reports that say women have noticed slight changes in their menstrual cycle after getting vaccinated? Well, to answer this, we have to reiterate a previously mentioned point. If you notice any irregularity in your menstrual cycle, it is due to the stress and anxiety stemming from the pandemic. There is no reason to blame the COVID-19 vaccine for it.
You must discuss any changes in your menstrual cycle with your healthcare provider so that the best way to manage the condition is figured out and this may actually hint at an underlying health issue and not necessarily due to covid vaccination.
If you are getting vaccinated during your period and you want to avoid complications, keeping a few things in mind is necessary.
One of the crucial facts to remember is that dehydration can cause cramps during periods. With the progesterone and estrogen levels dropping, the body starts to retain more water. Thus, it needs more water to maintain balance and have the bodily processes going smoothly. Also, you should stay two times more hydrated if you are getting vaccinated around or during your periods.
Here are a few more precautions to keep in mind before, during and after vaccination:
When you are waiting in line outside the vaccination centre and after you are inside, you should:
You should keep the mask on at the time of the appointment and keep your face away from the face of the person administering the vaccine. It will help keep both you and the vaccinator safe. It is entirely okay to feel anxious or nervous. But remember, it is only a tiny prick and it is going to protect you against deadly coronavirus. If it helps, take slow breaths and turn your face away from the needle.
Some minor side effects are expected after you get vaccinated. The side effects are signs that your body is developing immune protection. A few of the common side effects associated with COVID-19 vaccines are:
As you can see, we did not mention anything related to menstruation on the side effects.
Also Read: Can Sex Delay Your Periods: Evaluating Common Misconceptions and Realities
Combating covid or vaccine stress will ensure your periods are normal. You must continue to follow a healthy lifestyle in order to keep stress and anxiety at bay for overall good health.
Exercising regularly provides several benefits for your body. It can help manage your blood sugar levels, weight and well-being. While the pandemic has forced us to adopt a sedentary lifestyle, exercising can actually help lessen the effects of stress on the body.
Good sleep is recommended for everyone to overcome stress. Getting seven to eight hours of sleep a night is important. Sleep disturbances and inadequate rest can affect your hormones and subsequently, your menstrual cycle.
A balanced diet is one that contains adequate levels of carbohydrates, proteins, low-fat, low-sugar, and iron-rich foods. When you eat too much or don’t eat enough, it can affect your menstrual cycle. You must drink enough water for a healthy body.
There can be a lot of factors in our environment which trigger stress. It affects our diet, sleep schedule, and medication. Try to set a healthy routine for yourself, indulge in social interactions virtually because not meeting your loved ones can be a major cause of stress.
Also Read: Why is My Period Blood Black? Understanding the Underlying Health Facts
By now, it is clear that the COVID-19 vaccine does not affect menstrual cycles. So, we urge all our eligible readers to get vaccinated as soon as possible, regardless of whether they are menstruating. If your menstrual cycle is getting affected due to anxiety related to COVID and the stress of working from home, get in touch with a doctor without further delay. And finally, we should refrain as much from believing in rumours as from spreading unverified information.
Get a jab as well as a health checkup!
As the oestrogen levels fall during menstruation you may feel weak. This may especially happen if you experience heavy and painful periods. In this case you may consider rescheduling your COVID-19 vaccination appointment because the vaccine may cause lethargy and fever in some people. However, taking the vaccine is important and you must not neglect it.
You may opt for any COVID-19 vaccine that’s available for you. None of the covid vaccines have any guidelines related to menstruation and all the vaccines are more or less effective.
A COVID-19 vaccine can cause mild side effects after the first or second dose, including:
> Pain, redness or swelling at the injected site
> Fever
> Fatigue
> Headache
> Muscle pain
> Chills
> Joint pain
> Nausea and vomiting
> Feeling unwell
> Swollen lymph nodes
You’ll be monitored for 15 minutes after getting a COVID-19 vaccine to see if you have an allergic reaction. Most of these side effects will go away in a few days, if not, you must consult the doctor.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
UPDATE: As of the beginning of 2022, an additional study was carried out by AIG Hospitals in Hyderabad that confirmed the information below. A mix of Covaxin and Covishield vaccines was shown to leave the body with more virus-fighting antibodies than simply getting two doses of the same vaccine. The test was conducted by using Covaxin first and Covishield second as well as the converse of the same. In both cases, this mixed vaccine regime showed a much higher antibody response (up to 4 times more) than two doses of the same vaccine. Also, one of the hopeful results from this study states that mixing these vaccines is safe for humans. Read on to learn more:
Earlier, Covaxin was said to be better at protecting the new Delta variant of the SARS CoV2 virus. These claims were made by Bharat Biotech for their inactivated virus type vaccine but there wasn’t enough review available on these claims.
Although it may come across as a bit unorthodox, there have been ideas floating around for a while now regarding mixing vaccines for better potency. At the forefront of this idea were the first two vaccines being given out on a massive scale in India, Covaxin and Covishield. The latest results from ICMR shows that mixing these two does in fact produce better results.
The immune response to COVID-19 vaccines may wane over time. Booster shots are a safe and effective way to extend protection against variants of concern.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Fundamentally, Covishield and Covaxin work in different ways. Covaxin works by using an inactivated form of the whole SARS CoV2 virus, which has no potential to affect or infect the body. This kind of Whole-Virion Inactivated vaccine has been used for decades. In fact, this is one of the first forms of large scale vaccines since modern vaccines were developed.
Covishiled uses only a small part of the virus, a spike protein that can be found on the virus surface. This spike protein is used by the virus to enter into human cells, it is also one of the prime ways our immune system can identify the intruder. By replicating just the spike protein and injecting it into the blood, the body can recognise the virus and destroy it. All this, without any risk of contracting the disease since there is no actual virus present.
Both Covaxin and Covishield are excellent vaccines, considering the ridiculously short development times. And both also require two shots for the best results. But it has been thought for some time now that mixing the vaccines, i.e., one shot each of Covishield and Covaxin (or vice versa), may in fact show better results than just one vaccine on its own.
Spike-protein neutralizing antibodies are the ones which kill and neutralize the virus after vaccine administration. It was found that after mixing covaxin and covishield there was 4 times more response elicited by body as compared to 2 doses of same vaccine in a hospital based study at AIG hospitals.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Conducted in Uttar Pradesh, the test was a result of happenstance when 18 individuals received a mix of dosages instead of getting one vaccine twice. Initially, there was a lot of worry in the public regarding the adverse effects of mixing vaccine types.
As per the ICMR, these 18 individuals were tested against 80 individuals who received the conventional, two doses of 1 vaccine type (40 each of Covishield and Covaxin). Not only were all three of these groups found to be better protected and show greater immunogenicity in general but the group with mixed vaccines showed even better results than the other two groups.
Effectiveness against the Alpha, Beta and Delta variants was strong and their antibody response was also superior to those who received only one vaccine type.
Mixing vaccines may enhance the immune response, and it increases flexibility for when people need a booster dose but doses of the vaccine they first received are not available, the same is authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
The safety of mixing vaccines was also looked into by this test, to review its viability for use in the general public. The good news is that no adverse effects were noticed in the short or long term. Pain at the injection site (the upper arm in most cases) was detected, however, this issue is common in other vaccines as well.
The findings from this study are extremely important in light of the Delta and other variants, since combining Covishield and Covaxin has a better response against them. But not only does a mixed vaccination elicit a better immune response, but it is also a new pathway for vaccinating more people.
With over a billion people requiring vaccination in the country, the ability to mix and match with Covishield and Covaxin may open up better coverage for vaccinating the country. To move forward and make this a serious option, a broader study across multiple centres will be required. Till then, we can all breathe a sigh of relief at the good news and hope for the best.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
After months of coping with a healthcare crisis of unimaginable proportions, we finally have news that will cheer everyone up! Very soon, even children will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Parents can now breathe a sigh of relief.
To combat the ongoing second wave of COVID-19 and to prevent another escalation or the arrival of the third wave, India has been proactively administering COVID-19 vaccines for months. The goal is to vaccinate the majority of the population by the end of the year.
Till date, only legal adults were eligible for the vaccination. The safety of the vaccine for people below 18 years of age was being researched.
Naturally, parents were worried for the safety of their children and due to this reason schools also could not function as it would pose a tremendous health risk. But the Drug Controller General of India has recently given emergency use approval to another homegrown vaccine- ZyCoV-D, The Zydus Cadila COVID-19 vaccine. It is now the world’s only Covid vaccine that is needle-free and India’s only vaccine that can be administered to individuals in the age bracket of 12 to 18 years.
ZyCoV-D has been developed by one of India’s top pharmaceutical companies Zydus Cadila, based in Ahmedabad under the ‘Mission COVID Suraksha’ programme. The Zydus Cadila vaccine approval by DCGI came on Friday, 20 August. It is the 6th vaccine to receive emergency use approval in India after Covishield, Covaxin, Sputnik V and the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines.
The Zydus Cadila COVID-19 vaccine is also the first plasmid DNA vaccine for COVID-19 in the world. The Plasmid DNA platform also allows generating new constructs quickly to deal with mutations in the virus, such as those already occurring. The results of the Phase I part of the Phase I/II clinical trial have already been published in the EClinical Medicine Journal of Lancet.
It is a three-dose vaccine, first dose on day 0 followed by the second dose on 28th day and third dose on 56th day.
The COVID-19 vaccine from Zydus Cadila is a needle-free vaccine, it will be applied using the PharmaJet system which can minimise the vaccine hesitation in children due to fear of needles and is also expected to reduce the pain at the site of the vaccine caused in case of injections.
The Zydus Cadila COVID-19 vaccine has to be stored within 2 to 8 degrees temperature but it gives the flexibility of storage temperature. It can tolerate temperatures as high as 25 degrees Celsius which will ease the transportation of these vaccines.
Zydus Cadila COVID-19 vaccine is a plasmid DNA vaccine that will elicit an immune response mediated by cellular and humoral arms of the human immune system, which play a vital role in protection from disease as well as viral clearance.
Parents will want to know how soon they can get their children vaccinated. Zydus Cadila announced that it will be able to roll out the vaccines in 45-60 days from the day of approval. There is no available data on the price of the vaccine.
More Zydus Cadila vaccine updates will stream in soon. For now, we can celebrate the arrival of a 3-dose, needle-free covid vaccine- ZyCoV-D that is considered safe for children in the age group of 12-18, as the safety and efficacy of this vaccine are well established as notified in a press release by Zydus.
Pros and Cons of a DNA Vaccine
Like all other vaccines, Zydus Cadila also comes with its own set of pros and cons which we need to be aware of especially because of its plasmid DNA composition. Read below to know the potential pros and cons of Zydus Cadila.
Pros of Zydus Cadila:
Cons of Zydus Cadila:
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
After the 1st phase of COVID vaccination, the 2nd phase has started and already lakhs of people over the age of 60 as well as people over 45 years or above who have comorbidities have been vaccinated.
Soon, the next phase too will start where individuals above 18 – 44 years of age will be entitled to the vaccine. Vaccination is continuing uninterrupted and this has come as a breath of fresh air to everyone after a terrible year of pain, loss, grief and anxiety. In this context you may be asking, will I be able to return to the old norm after getting vaccinated? Can I stop taking the precautions of COVID-19?
That is why we should discuss what you can or cannot do and the precautions after vaccination that you need to know of.
Even though most of the vaccines that are being administered across the globe have undergone multiple trials and have been found to be effective in the trial phases and found to be efficacious, there are further studies ongoing to determine the long term effectiveness of the antibodies produced within the body by the Covid-19 vaccine. But for now, we can all take heart in the fact that the vaccines will help us fight off the coronavirus.
According to research, if you’ve been properly vaccinated and are past the 14-day window after receiving your vaccine, you should be safe. But that doesn’t rule out the possibility of spreading the virus to others.
Most youngsters who have received COVID-19 have done quite well. The viruses have also made some children quite unwell. That is why individuals and families should consider their options thoroughly before deciding to physically interact with others. Vaccinated persons are unlikely to infect others but the risk still exists.
With that in mind, let us look at which of these activities will be permissible.
1. Can I visit my loved ones?
If all of you have been vaccinated then small gatherings can be permitted. However, you must continue taking all precautions like the use of face cover or masks, hand sanitization and maintain social distancing.
But if your loved ones haven’t been vaccinated, avoid visiting them for their own good. You will not come to any harm, but you could be a carrier of COVID and pass it on to your family members or friends.
2. Can I go to restaurants, movie theatres, gyms, cafes or pubs?
After vaccination, you will be safer in public places. Even so, you have to continue wearing masks, follow social distancing and avoid going to large-sized gatherings for two reasons:
3. Will I finally be able to go on a vacation?
After vaccination, you can go on a small local vacation when you know that more or less everyone in that state is vaccinated. Local safe travels are possible. But planning an international holiday may be unwise because new COVID strains are originating and there is a possibility that our vaccines may not be effective against those.
4. Can I travel by public transport?
Yes, you can travel by public transport if you are wearing your mask correctly, if there is proper airflow from ventilation systems, and minimal talking between passengers. The transmission chances appear to be low if you avoid touching surfaces and too much crowd. As a part of returning to normal, public transportation is likely safe with COVID-19 safety precautions in mind.
5. Can fully vaccinated people do away with masks?
People who are fully vaccinated must continue to wear masks when outdoors. There are people who haven’t got both doses of the vaccine yet and can potentially spread the infection. Thus, taking all necessary precautions to prevent COVID-19 is the best way to ensure complete safety.
6. Do I need to get tested if I am exposed even if I am fully vaccinated?
Yes, if you’ve been around someone who has COVID-19, you must get tested. People who are fully vaccinated should get tested three to five days after a potential exposure, even if they don’t have symptoms. COVID-19 vaccines are good at protecting people from getting seriously ill, but vaccinated people can still get infected with the delta variant and spread it to others.
Here are a few precautions of COVID-19 that all responsible citizens should follow even after vaccination:
It is impossible to say whether the ‘old norm’ will ever be back again. But did you know that wearing masks and sanitization can keep you safe from the coronavirus and its other variants as well. So let us all continue to maintain hygiene protocol.
other variants as well. So let us all continue to maintain hygiene protocol.
Side effects
Minor side effects may be possible after vaccination. Some side effects of vaccines are typical and expected after vaccination. Side effects indicate your body’s development of immunological defences.
The following are some of the most common COVID-19 vaccination adverse effects:
â— Pain, swelling, and redness on the arm where the vaccine was given
â— Chills or a low-grade fever
â— Tiredness
â— Headaches
â— Muscle discomfort or joint pain
These adverse effects usually subside within a few days.
Know your current health status with full body checkups.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
You read that right. We already knew that vaccinations are great for lowering the chances of getting hospitalised due to COVID-19. Now in a new study, getting a triple shot vaccination, ie., 3 doses of COVID vaccine are being reported to also reduce the risk of death by 93%!
When compared with people who were unvaccinated vs people who received a triple vaccination for COVID-19, the latter had a much lower death rate. This reiterates the call that the medical community has been saying all along, vaccines are our biggest hope to get through the pandemic.
The latest study comes out of the Office For National Statistics in the UK, a government affiliate office and official statistics reporter for the UK parliament. This study was conducted prior to the Omicron surge, hence the latest variant and its effects have not yet been measured in this context.
The study was based on a large sample size of nearly 70,000 individuals, going over the risk of death based on whether the person was unvaccinated, had 2 shots or had completed 3 shots. The data has been calculated till the end of December 2021, hence it has not yet captured the bulk of the Omicron led wave in the UK.
Here are some easy to digest figures that show just how important vaccinations are:
For most of this time, just getting two doses had significantly lowered the risk of death (vs unvaccinated). But with Omicron being more easily transmissible and the assumptions on the first two doses of vaccination losing some potency over time, the risk of death even for double vaccinated people started to climb. Also, it is imperative to understand that other factors like old age and comorbidities may also increase the risk of severe illness and hospitalisations in people with just one or two doses of vaccination.
The rollout of booster shots (or triple vaccinations) across England has brought down the risk of death significantly once more. This news is promising since it takes data from a very large sample. A heartwarming statistic from this report shows that the most vulnerable people (elderly adults) were found to have their risk of death lowered by a staggering 89% after getting their third shot!
Another key takeaway is that this report once again shows why the pandemic is a numbers game. Even though most experts seem to agree that Omicron is milder, it still is highly transmissible. This means that many more people are likely to get infected and even if a small percentage of those people face hospitalisation or death, the number of deaths is still large. Here are some very quick maths for you:
So yes, Omicron may be milder. But if large numbers of people get it, the risk of people dying is scary. Luckily, we now have some evidence and direction with this latest report.
We can be grateful that the medical community around the world anticipated this very situation and have been preparing for the third vaccination process. The USA has been on a battlefield with the pandemic and has recently simplified the eligibility for getting the booster shot (along with a renewed push to increase testing). The UK is leading the front with over 80% of eligible people (over 18 years) having received their third jab. In the European Union, talks are still on for developing policies over the necessity of a triple vaccination. Israel has set a new path by calling for not just 3, but a fourth booster shot rollout. Meanwhile, Australia has reduced the time you need to wait to take your third dose.
This latest report brings a mix of good and bad news. On one hand, the vaccinations we took are seemingly losing effectiveness against the new variants of COVID-19, which means we have to take every possible measure to reduce our risk of exposure to the virus even after getting the full course of vaccination. On the other hand, we already have precaution doses (third dose of vaccines) rolling out for senior citizens and healthcare workers in India. We know that getting vaccinated is not a 100% protection tool, but it is a very significant tool that helps enormously to lower the risk of hospitalisation and death due to COVID. Vaccination may also help in the long run to fight the Pandemic at the global level. As the virus evolves and the situation changes, we need to be ready to do what we can and get ahead of it. If you are eligible for a triple vaccination, get yours done as soon as you can and do not forget to follow COVID-appropriate behaviour.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/healthandsocialcare/conditionsanddiseases/articles/coronaviruscovid19latestinsights/deaths#deaths-by-vaccination-status
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, the Coronavirus is a modern-day disease that has affected us all, shaking up the entire world with its confusing, mutating nature, and ever-emerging, new variants. With the world having already witnessed 3 COVID waves, it is best to be educated and prepared.
Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, has famously said that Nature is the best physician. With technological advancement, increasing dependency on machines and drugs, and a highly complex lifestyle, we are moving away from Nature and exposing ourselves to many unknown and infectious diseases. The Coronavirus is one such disease that is spreading like wildfire, and the post-COVID life is often called ”the new normal.”
As the Coronavirus is still raging on our precious planet, it is about time we expose some hidden Covid secrets, and bust some myths in the process too.
The latest variant of the Coronavirus, the Omicron variant is causing some confusion among the scientific community. The booster dose and the double vaccine dose seems to be working against the Omicron variant, which is positive news, as most of the vaccines were designed to work against the first variant of Covid.
The marvellous human immune system has a unique ability to remember past infections. Some diseases and infections are given lifelong protection by the immune system, whereas booster shots are required for the others.
A study conducted in London’s Imperial College shows that the risk of reinfection with Omicron is about 5.4 times greater than getting infected with the Delta variant. Omicron antibodies are not as effective in protecting the body from reinfection.
Omicron poses a major threat to public health, as a study shows that people having the S gene target failure are at greater risk of reinfection and also breakthrough infections.
When a virus makes copies of itself (replication), there is a possibility that it might change a little bit. Such changes are termed ‘mutations’. When a virus shows one or more new mutations, it is called a ”variant” of the virus it originated from. The longer a virus remains in circulation, the more it is likely to mutate and change. Such a process can create a variant that is more adaptable and better suited to the environment than the original virus. The mutation and natural selection of a better-adapted variant are known as ‘virus evolution’.
Certain mutations alter the virus’ attributes such as severity or transmission. The variant may become more transmissible or less deadly than its predecessor or the opposite could also happen.
Not all viruses change at the same pace. SARS-CoV-2 which is responsible for COVID-19 evolves at a much slower rate than other viruses such as the flu virus of HIV. This is due to the inbuilt proof-reading mechanism of the virus that corrects ‘errors’ when the virus duplicates itself. Studies are ongoing to find out more about this. It is important for us to know that the more this virus spreads from one person to another, the higher are the chances for it to mutate. Therefore, we must make every possible effort to reduce our risk of exposure to the virus.
We have often heard that the Omicron variant is ”just like the flu”, and ”extremely mild.” That is an extremely careless and silly way to handle the problem. While both COVID-19 and the Flu have similar symptoms like body aches, fever, cough, and headaches, the two diseases are definitely not the same. Research done in the John Hopkins research centre states that the overall profile of COVID-19 is much more serious. The mortality rate of patients suffering from COVID-19 is estimated to be about 10 times greater than the number of patients succumbing to the flu.
While there is plenty of research still ongoing relating to the Coronavirus, this pandemic appears to be far from over but there is a ray of hope that this too will end someday. We must stay away from forwards and other false information, and rather rely on dependable sources of information. In this day and age, proper education and knowledge is the key to overcoming this totally unforeseeable disease.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
The Serum Institute of India (SII) sought and received approval from the World Health Organisation on the 17th of December, 2021 for the emergency use of Covovax. SII is one of the largest vaccine manufacturers in the world and WHO approved the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) of the COVID-19 vaccine Covovax, which was developed under the licence of Novavax. This is the recent vaccine associated with India, that has been approved by the WHO, the other two being Covaxin and Covishield. This vaccine has been approved for immunisation of individuals who are 18 years and above.
The fight against COVID-19 is ongoing and vaccinations for the entire population is the need of the hour. When vaccines against COVID-19 were first introduced to the world, many third world nations like India suffered from vaccine shortages. The manufacture of Covaxin (India’s first indigenous vaccine) and Covishield (the Indian version of Britain’s AstraZeneca) were major milestones for the efforts to vaccinate India.
The approval of Covovax in India by the WHO is an important milestone because more people can now get vaccinated (especially in lower-income nations). This indicates that there are now 9 (Covovax being the 9th one) COVID-19 vaccines that can help us stay protected from the virus. The approval of the vaccine is a positive indicator of the safety and protection of the people from SARS CoV-2.
The approval of the Covovax vaccine by the WHO is a strong indicator of its efficacy and safety. It is important to know whether a vaccine is showing effectiveness or not. Covovax has been developed using the technology of the Novavax vaccine, which is effective in providing protection against the mutated strains of the COVID-19 virus. Since the Covovax vaccine has been deemed safe for use, it means that more people can now get vaccinated and stay protected against mutated strains as well. A projected third dose can increase the antibody count by up to 4-6 times and provide resistance against the delta variant. Studies about the protection against the omicron variant are still ongoing.
SII CEO Adar Poonawalla has announced plans for the launch of Covovax jabs for children too. He plans to launch a vaccine for children from the age of three. Although children have not faced any deadly effects of the virus, vaccinating them ensures a safety net for them.
COVOVAX is the protein-based COVID-19 vaccine option, with demonstrated efficacy and a well-tolerated safety profile, to be made available through the COVAX Facility said CEO of Serum Institute of India, Mr Adar Poonawala. The Covovax vaccine uses spike proteins to help the immune system adapt to combat the virus and create antibodies.
Covovax requires storage between the temperatures of 2 °C and 8 °C, therefore existing cold chain supply lines for vaccine transport can be used for this vaccine as well.
Clinical studies show a 96.4% efficacy against mild or severe COVID-19 infection. The Covovax vaccine has a very strong safety profile and the booster shots are deemed to be more effective. Although more study is required to understand the vaccine’s efficacy against the Omicron variant. However, the INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2 Consortium on Genomics), does believe that there are high chances that Covovax will receive approval as the booster shot that we may all need.
Children need the COVID-19 vaccine as much as adults do because they are returning to schools and colleges and they are vulnerable without the protection offered by vaccines. So can Covovax be administered to children? According to Poonawalla, Covovax is safe and can offer the required protection to all children down to three years of age.
The approval of Covovax by the WHO is a boost for India’s vaccination drive. It is also a positive indicator that studies to understand and counter the COVID-19 virus are being effective. Serum Institute of India also plans to introduce a vaccine for children based on Covovax. You can stay assured that Covovax is an effective measure to protect yourself from mutated strains of the virus. It is important for everyone to get vaccinated, follow covid-appropriate behaviour and maintain a safe distance from others to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19.
India carried out one of the largest vaccination programs in the world and is one of the leading countries when it comes to the number of people vaccinated. This is heartening news because this means we are all a little more protected from the dreaded coronavirus.
In this context, a question that is on the mind of every parent with a very young child is, when will the COVID vaccine for children in India be available?
Children are as vulnerable to COVID as adults. And very small ones might be at greater risk as they may fail to follow Covid appropriate behaviour very precisely. Schools and colleges have remained closed for many months now and it has greatly disrupted their academic routine. This situation can not possibly continue. The pandemic and the lockdown life has also greatly affected children’s psychological health. So for the sake of their safety and wellbeing, the COVID vaccine for children is ultra essential.
India already has three Covid vaccines – Corbevax, Covovax and Covaxin – that have received emergency use approvals in children from 5 to 12. The nod means human trials in this bracket have found these shots safe and effective.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
The very simple reason is that experts weren’t yet sure whether the vaccines that are being administered to adults are safe for children. And even if they are safe, what would be the dosage? Clearly, children would need smaller doses than adults. But what dosage would be effective in triggering an immense response?
Trials have been ongoing to find out all the answers. And finally, the scientists have given the green light and COVID vaccines for children will soon hit the market.
A COVID-19 vaccine can prevent your child from getting infected and spreading coronavirus. If your child gets infected, a COVID-19 vaccine could prevent them from becoming severely ill in subsequent exposure to COVID-19 infection. The Government of India has extended the COVID-19 vaccination for children in the 15 to 18 age group on 3 January 2022.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
The Subject Expert Committee has recommended the emergency use authorization of India’s home-grown COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin for children between 2-18 years of age. Higher authorities and officials will hold extensive talks with experts, before this COVID vaccine for children in India is rolled out.
Another vaccine that may become available in the market as early as November is ZyCoV-D developed by India’s Zydus Cadila. This vaccine has earned emergency use approval for everyone above 12 years of age. Discussions are ongoing to decide whether this vaccine should also be made available to children below 12 years of age. ZyCoV-D is a unique 3-dose, a needle-free vaccine for COVID-19.
Also Read: Omicron Variant & Vaccine Efficacy
Until the COVID vaccine for children in India is available and your child gets vaccinated, make sure that you limit their exposure to the virus. They need to wear masks at all times whenever they go out of the house. Sanitization of hands is vital. Make sure their outside clothes and bags are disinfected properly. And the adults of the household should be vaccinated and must also follow the above-mentioned COVID protocol.
Also Read: Omicron Variant Latest News & Updates
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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