COVID-19 vaccine FAQs for people with underlying health issues: Get your facts right before going for the jab

There are still a lot of question in the minds of people regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. Max Healthcare doctors have come forward to clear the air.

India has entered the third phase of its COVID-19 vaccination programme on May 1, opening up the vaccine to everyone above 18 years of age. With India going through the worst phase of the pandemic currently, it is crucial that everyone take the jab, sooner than later. While we may have several questions about the vaccine, there is nothing to worry. Here, Max Healthcare doctors answer possible queries, dispel fears, and elaborate on the precautions that must be observed before and after taking the COVID-19 vaccine. They say that anyone experiencing high fever should not be taking the vaccine. If you have any of the following conditions, you must consult your doctors before taking the vaccine:

• Those already infected with Covid-19
• Pregnant women and lactating mothers
• Those with autoimmune disorders
• Those with allergies to a particular food item
• Those who are immuno-compromised and on steroids
• Those on blood thinning medication
• Those having got a rare case of severe allergic reaction to the first vaccine

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR PEOPLE WITH HEALTH ISSUES

Here is what the doctors have to say about people with underlying health conditions.

If one is on medications for ailments like cancer, diabetes, hypertension etc., can they still take the vaccine?

This population is at a higher risk of complications from Covid-19 infection hence, it should be a priority for all of them to get vaccinated as soon as possible so that they can build immunity against Covid at the earliest.

What precautions must severe asthma patients take before getting their jabs?

Asthma is an allergic condition, so some asthmatic patients may have certain allergies like allergy to a particular drug, hence they must inform the vaccine officer about this and accordingly get the jab. If they have faced an allergic reaction to any vaccine (not COVID) in the past, they must inform the vaccine officer about this as well. They also should take their regular medications, even on the day of vaccination.

Can people with skin diseases such as psoriasis, vitiligo etc. get the vaccine?

There is no evidence to support that people with skin diseases should avoid vaccination against Covid-19. The vaccine is safe for patients on immunosuppressive or biologic drugs such as Omalizumab, Secukinumab etc. as well. People with allergies to food/ pets/ dust/ pollution/ latex etc. can also take the vaccine safely. They are however advised to wait at the vaccination centre for 30 minutes after receiving the shot to ensure that no adverse reaction occurs.

What about people with severe allergic reaction?

Patients who have had a history of severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) after a previous dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or any of its components, are advised to avoid vaccination.

What are the guidelines for people with diabetes and hypertension?

What are the tips for those suffering from such conditions as hypertension and sugar problems if they feel sick after getting their jab? Here's what doctors say.

• You must ensure that your blood pressure and sugar levels are at normal levels and under control.
• If due to some reason, the levels are fluctuating, you must avoid taking the vaccine until your health situation is under control.
• You must ensure that you take your medications on time, even on the day of vaccination.
• If after vaccination, you do experience any complication, you must contact your doctors immediately.
• Post vaccine precautions are same for everyone.