COVID-19 Booster Dose in India: Eligibility & Registration

Posted on: May 22, 2023 | | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

COVID-19 Booster Dose in India: Eligibility & Registration

With the emergence of new COVID-19 variants and evolving scientific knowledge, health authorities in India have recommended a booster dose to provide additional protection against the virus. As the pandemic continues to impact the world, India has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens. So, what is the booster dose age limit in India, the registration process for the booster dose Covid vaccine, and the side effects of the precautionary dose? Let’s find out.

Omicron variant in India

Like many other countries, India has been closely monitoring the emergence and spread of the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus. The Omicron variant, first identified in South Africa in November 2021, has raised concerns globally due to its high number of mutations and potential impact on transmissibility and vaccine effectiveness. In response to the threat posed by Omicron, the Indian government has been actively implementing surveillance measures, enhancing testing capabilities, and taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the variant within the country. Stringent travel restrictions and quarantine protocols have been put in place, along with increased genomic sequencing efforts to promptly identify cases of the variant. Authorities are collaborating with healthcare professionals and scientific experts to understand this variant's characteristics and implications and adapt public health strategies accordingly.

What is a COVID-19 Booster?

A COVID-19 booster dose refers to an additional vaccination administered after the completion of the primary vaccination schedule to enhance and prolong immunity against the COVID-19 virus. While the initial vaccine series provides a significant level of protection against the virus, emerging scientific evidence and the evolving nature of the pandemic have indicated the potential need for a booster dose. The booster dose Covid vaccine aims to strengthen the immune response, particularly in individuals with waning immunity over time or who face a higher risk of infection. By administering a booster dose, the body’s immune system is stimulated to produce a fresh surge of antibodies, improving the ability to fight against new variants or breakthrough infections. The COVID-19 booster is designed to build upon the protection provided by the initial vaccine series, contributing to overall community immunity and reducing the severity of illness among vaccinated individuals.

Eligibility for COVID-19 Booster Dose

• Fully vaccinated (2 doses) individuals who have completed 9 months or 39 weeks after the second or final dose are eligible for the booster dose.

• The booster dose age limit in India is 18 years and above.

• Healthcare and frontline workers are priority.

• People aged above 60 years and those who have co-morbidities.

• In case of international travel, the beneficiary can take the booster shot after 3 months of taking the second dose.

If you are eligible for the preventive dose based on the records available in Co-Win, the due date of the booster shot will be displayed on the dashboard. The booster dose can be administered at any government or private vaccination centre. Having comprehensive health insurance coverage can be a prudent choice to provide financial security in case of any unforeseen medical expenses related to vaccination or potential side effects.

Guidelines for COVID-19 Booster Dose

• The beneficiary should have taken both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

• The gap between the second/final vaccine shot and booster dose should be 9 months or 39 weeks.

• The beneficiary should carry the final Certificate of Vaccination (with details of the earlier two doses) and a valid ID proof such as an Aadhaar card, driving licence, etc.

• Beneficiaries should use the same mobile number and ID card used for earlier doses.

• The government has not allowed the mixing and matching of vaccines. So, if you have been vaccinated with 2 doses of Covishield, your booster dose will have to be Covishield. The same applies to those who have been administered Covaxin.

• New/fresh registration is not required for booster doses. If you are fully vaccinated and already registered on Co-Win, you can simply book an appointment in your Co-Win account or walk into any vaccination centre.

• Continue to follow COVID-19 protocols to stay safe and limit transmission of the virus.

Side Effects of the Booster Dose

The side effects of the booster shot are like those of COVID-19 vaccines, such as fever, weakness, headache, body pain, swollen or sore arms, etc. However, you should consult a doctor if the symptoms do not subside after a couple of days or if you experience chills or swollen lymph nodes.

How to Register for the COVID-19 Booster Dose?

If you have registered in Co-Win, are fully vaccinated and are eligible for the booster shot, there’s no need to register again. Just book an appointment slot by signing into your Co-Win account, and once the appointment is confirmed, you can visit the vaccination centre and get the shot. When your booster dose is due, you will get SMS reminders.

How much does a COVID-19 Booster Dose Cost?

COVID-19 booster shot is offered free of cost at all government vaccination centres. In private hospital vaccination centres, the cost depends on the vaccine and the exact cost will be available in Co-Win.

Conclusion

Despite being fully vaccinated, there was a surge in COVID-19 cases due to the highly infectious variant, Omicron. This could be due to the ineffectiveness of the vaccine over time. Hence, to provide enhanced protection against the pandemic and reduce the risk of infection, the Government of India rolled out the third dose or precautionary/booster shot in January 2022. If you have taken both doses and are eligible for the booster dose, it’s important to take the booster shot to strengthen your immunity.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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