‘Apprehensions of the vaccine have to go’

'Vaccination vital to achieve herd immunity'

Dr Navneet, a Medical Officer at the Civil Hospital, tested positive on October 18 last year. She has a five- year-old daughter and a 14-year-old son. Her husband runs a private hospital. She says the Covid-19 phase was the most challenging part of her career.

“I was among the health workers treating Covid patients. We were always at the frontlines and took all precautions. Despite wearing PPE kit all the time, I tested positive. Days of body aches and fever were followed by slow and steady recovery. Both my husband and I got quarantined. I stayed at my husband’s hospital for 15 days to avoid spreading infection to my children. I recently got myself tested for antibodies. Despite the fact that I had developed Covid antibodies, I still went forth to get vaccinated on Saturday. I believe the apprehensions regarding the vaccines had to go.”

“I have been convincing my colleagues to get Covishield vaccine shots. On January 16, the first day of the of the inoculation drive, I was among the frontline workers getting vaccinated.”

She adds, “I have friends here who are not getting the shot since they have developed antibodies. Taking the first vaccine jab is smooth, but after the second phase, fever or mild pains are reported by some. But it can happen with other vaccines too. Vaccine shots are required in the long run to ensure herd immunity. The sooner the better.”

She said, “Many of my friends are apprehensive about getting vaccinated. But I share my vaccination experience with everybody to allay the fears in the minds of people and inspire them to come forth.”

(As told to Aparna Banerji)