Dear Editor, The second wave of coronavirus taught us a lot of things. Not only did it highlight the unpredictability of disease itself, but also gave us an insight into the various ways we can prevent a potential third wave. However, amidst all the chaos, there are people who are still very reluctant to take the vaccine or believe that skipping their second shot is a possible option. But what you must know is that vaccine is our only mode of protection against virus and that the second COVID shot is the most important among two doses. Until and unless you receive the two doses, you are only partially protected from the virus. Primary COVID vaccines in India i.e., Covaxin and Covishield, have to be administered in two doses. Even if you have received first dose of the vaccine, you must take the second shot at all costs. In terms of Covishield, the second dose can be taken after gap of 12 weeks, whereas after the first dose of Covaxin, you can get your second dose after 4-6 weeks. Getting only one dose of COVID vaccine only provides partial immunity, which means you are still at risk of developing severe COVID infections. Given the new emerging variants, it becomes all the more crucial that you take your vaccination process seriously and follow all guidelines laid down by health officials. Besides lowering your chances of contracting the virus, getting your second shot and being fully vaccinated also ensures mild to no symptoms, even if you catch COVID-19. Apart from that, recent reports have also suggested that people who are fully vaccinated are less susceptible to the Delta and Delta plus variant as compared to the ones who are partially vaccinated i.e. with one dose. Given you and other members of the family are fully vaccinated, according to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you can host gatherings indoors together and also be mask-free. However, it is advised to steer clear of those who are yet to receive their COVID shots. Remember, the second vaccine shot is the most important as it provides full immunity against the virus. Besides, getting both the doses of the COVID vaccines can help us achieve herd immunity which can in turn contain the spread of the virus in communities. Considering the young and elderly are both equally susceptible to the deadly coronavirus, it is important that each and every person, falling under the eligibility criteria, get themselves vaccinated. While you may not feel the need to get vaccinated considering you are young, it is crucial that we protect the most vulnerable in our community and that can only be achieved through mass-vaccination. Through your esteemed daily, I request all to get vaccinated as it is the only way to stay safe from COVID. Get your vaccination done and help in fight against COVID. Kshitij Sharma, Trikuta Nagar.
