Should kids get COVID-19 vaccination?
The current situation in the Covid-19 pandemic begs us to ask serious questions about the vaccination of our children below the age of 15 years. In several countries across the world, including the USA, vaccinations for kids between the ages of 5 to 15 years have already started. This is soon expected to be implemented here in India too. You could visit a top children's clinic with your kid to get a better idea about this. Let us understand the relationship between Covid-19 vaccines and children.
Covid-19 Vaccination For Kids In India: The Major Considerations
- The primary three Covid-19 vaccines available in India include Covishield (Oxford/ AstraZeneca), Covaxin, and Sputnik-V. The other vaccines consist of Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, Novavax, amongst others.
- As of now, the individuals eligible for taking a Covid-19 vaccine include the entirety of the adult population in the country and teenagers between the ages of 15 and 18 years. According to government reports, 75% of the adult population in India has been statement fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Another government shows that over 60% of kids aged 15-18 years have received their first dose of the vaccine.
- Taking vaccines can prevent our children from contracting and spreading the Covid-19 virus, thereby reducing further transmission. And if a child gets the virus, the vaccine could prevent them from becoming seriously ill or experiencing any short-term or long-term health complications. A children's specialist is usually trained to deal with such cases and they can guide you for the same.
- Many virologists and doctors argue that if a greater number of children are vaccinated, the chances of enhanced herd immunity also go up. This phenomenon occurs when a large number of people become immunized to a specific disease on a grander scale.
- Furthermore, children with other health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and asthma, might be at higher risk of serious COVID-19 complications. Vaccinating them would hence provide enhanced immunity and help them to recover faster.
Wrapping Up
What should be noted here is that very much like in the case of adults, these vaccines come with a certain degree of risk as well. With mild fever, headaches, and chills the less-serious responses from the immune system, severe ones include allergic reactions, inflammations, etc., which are extremely rare. Contact your nearest children's clinic immediately to book an appointment with a children's specialist to further clarify your doubts.
