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On May 1st, 2020, India opened doors for vaccination for all individuals above 18+. This involves the majority of our country’s population which is why taking precautions and measures to ensure at most safety is essential. While the journey towards vaccination of all individuals continues, here are a few things one must keep in mind before, during and after vaccination. If you are planning to get vaccinated soon, do take note of the following points to stay on top of your health.

Before vaccination:

1. Register yourself

The government has introduced portals where you can register yourself for the vaccination. This makes the process systematic and trackable. You can download the Aarogya Setu app or visit CoWIN or UMANG website and register yourself for vaccination using your Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Driving Licence number or any other identity proof. Once registered, choose your location for vaccination and book your slot as per the availability. Make sure to use the same mobile number for registration that you’ll be carrying to the vaccination center. You’ll receive updates on this mobile number once registered.

2. Follow the date and time allotted

Do not opt for walk-in vaccination unless specified by the center. Reach 30 mins before your scheduled slot and reserve a few hours of your day for the process as it may take more time than estimated in case of unprecedented situations.

3. Stay clean on the day of vaccination

Do not consume alcohol or any other intoxicants on the day of your vaccination as this may cause side effects or hamper your body’s coping mechanism to the vaccine.

4. Eat well prior to your vaccination.

Make sure to have a full stomach before going to the center. As mentioned earlier, you might have to spend more time than expected in the line and to avoid fatigue caused due to hunger, it is important to eat well before you leave your house. Carry a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated as well..

During vaccination:

1. Follow the process

Once you reach the center as per your scheduled time, go to the payment counter if it is a paid vaccination slot. Make the payment as per your convenience mode. If it’s a government hospital, payment won’t be applicable. After this, they will check your details through your registered mobile number and CoWIN reference ID. You will find this ID once you log in to the portal. There will be volunteers who will guide you to the vaccination room or booth.

2. Wait patiently for your turn

The most important thing to remember is that one must avoid causing havoc or crowd at the center. The nurse will call you once your turn comes. Social distancing norms must be followed within and outside the premises.

Once called for the vaccination, stay calm and keep your hand loose. It will only take a few moments for the injection and after that, you’ll be asked to sit in the waiting room for about 30 mins. This is an observation period for the staff to ensure you aren’t facing any problematic symptoms after the dosage. You may notice slight bleeding once the needle is removed, but there is nothing to panic about. They will provide some cotton to stop it. If you are feeling something unusual, consult the nurse in the waiting room immediately.

After vaccination:

1. Take rest

Initially, you may feel normal and as energetic as you were before the vaccination. However, you may experience slight arm pain or swelling. This is common and can be treated at home by just applying some ice. You may also feel feverish later on the first, second and third day. Take optimum rest and give your body time to heal. If you aren’t handed a tablet already by the center to take in case of fever, have paracetamol or crocin to treat the fever.

Inform Helpline Number: +91-11-23978046 (Toll-free- 1075) in case of any side effects after leaving the vaccination center. Continue taking precautions of social distancing and wearing masks after vaccination too. Take your second dosage as per the recommended guidelines. For further information in case of exceptional health conditions, do stay in touch with your physician for personalized guidance.

Also read:  Do I Need To Wear A Double Mask In COVID-19?