Do I need to use the mask/other COVID-19 appropriate precautions after receiving the vaccine?

Yes, it is absolutely necessary to continue following COVID-19 appropriate behaviour after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Wear your mask at all times, maintain social distancing or do gaj ki doori and hand sanitization to protect themselves and those around from spreading the infection.

How long will I remain protected after vaccination?

The longevity of the immune response in vaccinated individuals is yet to be determined. Hence, continuing the use of masks, handwashing, physical distancing and other COVID-19 appropriate behaviours is strongly recommended.

Does vaccination protect me against newer strains / mutated viruses of SARS-CoV 2?

The body responds to vaccination by making more than one type of antibodies to virus parts including spike protein. Therefore, all vaccines are expected to provide a reasonable amount of protection against the mutated virus also. Based on the available data the mutations as reported are unlikely to make the vaccine ineffective.

In how many days will the vaccination create an adequate immune response and protection?

Adequate immune response takes 2-3 weeks after completion of the entire vaccination schedule i.e., after the second dose of Covishield® and Covaxin®.

Should you avoid alcohol after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

As per experts, there is no evidence of alcohol impairing the effectiveness of the vaccine.

What precautions do I need to take after receiving the vaccine?

Both the vaccines are safe but in case of any discomfort or complaint, ask the beneficiary to visit the nearest health facility and/or call the health worker whose phone number is given in the Co-WIN SMS and slip received after vaccination.

Does this vaccine provide herd immunity?

When an increasing number of people get vaccinated in the community, indirect protection through herd immunity develops. The percentage of people who need to be immune in order to achieve herd immunity varies with each disease. For example, it’s 95% for measles, however, the proportion of the population that must be vaccinated against COVID-19 to begin inducing herd immunity is not known.

Are there any preventive measures and precautions that one needs to follow at the session site?

After getting vaccinated, rest for at least half an hour at the vaccination centre. Inform the nearest health authorities/ANM/ASHA in case you feel any discomfort or uneasiness subsequently. Remember to continue following key COVID-19 appropriate behaviours like wearing a mask, maintaining hand sanitization and physical distance (or 6 feet or Do Gaj).

Source: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/covid_vaccination/vaccination/index.html