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More awareness needed to increase vax among lactating, pregnant women
PUNE As lactating women and pregnant women have begun taking the Covid vaccine, experts suggest hesitancy among these beneficiaries can be reduced as awareness increases
PUNE As lactating women and pregnant women have begun taking the Covid vaccine, experts suggest hesitancy among these beneficiaries can be reduced as awareness increases.
Speaking about the issue, Dr Meenakshi Deshpande, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and president-elect, Indian Medical Association (IMA), Pune chapter, said that many lactating women and pregnant women are still hesitant about taking the vaccine.
“Since the central government gave permission to vaccinate pregnant women, 300 beneficiaries have received the vaccination. Any side-effects, post vaccination, are similar to those from other age groups. Dizziness, fever and pain at the site of vaccination are common symptoms post- vaccination,” said Dr Deshpande.
She added that so far only one patient has reported fever and fatigue, post vaccination, for more than one day.
“The effect of vaccination on children who breastfeed and on the foetus are not seen. The vaccines are safe for the child and the mother,” said Dr Deshpande.
She added that in other countries, vaccines for pregnant and lactating women started early.
“Due to this, many women are inoculated. As inoculation started just a month ago, many women are hesitant to take the vaccine. Doctors are suggesting pregnant and lactating women take their dose as soon as possible to keep themselves and their babies safe,” said Dr Deshpande.
Dr Dnyaneshwar Mote, member of the Pune city Covid task force for social action, said that on the ground level, many women and families are hesitant about taking the vaccine.
“So far, the scientific evidence suggests that Vaccines are safe for pregnant and lactating women. In such a scenario, more awareness campaigns should be taken up by the government,” said Dr Mote.
He added that women who are not educated should be counselled about the benefits of the vaccine.
“During the second wave, we saw a lot of new mothers infected with Covid. Whereas, young infants were safe and many later tested negative with no post-Covid complications. For this to not repeat itself, it is important to vaccinate pregnant women and lactating women. Their vaccination will ensure the safety of the child too,” said Dr Mote.
