COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shot for Seniors

The government of India recently announced the roll-out of the third COVID-19 vaccine also known as 'precautionary dose' or ‘booster shot’ for those above 60 yrs. The same is also being given to frontline workers such as healthcare workers, nurses, doctors, etc.

Elders who are 60 years and above will be eligible for a booster dose only if they are vaccinated with two doses. You will receive an SMS on your registered mobile number, as a reminder to take the third dose which is the booster dose. The precaution dose would be given on the completion of nine months that is 39 weeks from the date of administration of the second dose.

As per health experts, the precautionary dose is primarily to mitigate the severity of infection, hospitalization, and death. However, elders with frail conditions are suggested to go for the “precautionary dose” only after they are medically advised to do so.

• Type of Dose

The third dose will be the same vaccine as the first and second doses. There will be no mix and match, the Centre has said.  This means if you have taken two doses of Covishield vaccine, you will receive the same vaccine as a third dose. While those who got two jabs of Covaxin will get a third jab of the same vaccine.

• Procedure

As per the government guidelines, there is no need to register to get the ‘precautionary dose,’ and that walk-ins are allowed since all the details will be available in the Cowin App for those who have already got two doses.

Post taking the precautionary dose you can download the certificate from the same Cowin Portal.

Note: For those who have recently tested positive for COVID-19

Those who have recently tested positive for COVID-19 cannot take the third dose immediately. Such individuals need to wait for at least three months before getting the booster shot.

• Continue Taking Precautions

Getting vaccinated does not mean you become carefree. Even after getting vaccinated, you will have to avoid crowded places and maintain a 6 feet distance from people. Follow a healthy diet, get good sleep, continue wearing a mask and follow basic hygiene protocols to keep COVID-19 and related illnesses at bay.

Vaccination, even though helpful only offers a certain degree of protection. Reinfection is still a real possibility that hasn’t been ruled out yet. So, stay safe, and stay healthy!

A massive vaccination drive has been set across the country, to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus. Vaccinating, right now, is a good way to achieve herd immunity. Take it yourself and inspire your friends and family members to take it too. Talk about the process and how it made you feel. It will surely inculcate a sense of positivity in others.