When can you take 2nd Covid vaccine if infected after first?

There have been some reports of people getting infected with COVID-19 even after a vaccine shot. Even if you get infected after the first vaccine dose, it does not mean you cannot take the second shot of covid vaccine. However, the second dose of the vaccine must be deferred for at least four to eight weeks after recovery, according to the Health Ministry.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), however, said that the incidence rate of such cases in India is less than 0.05 per cent.

The four-eight week deferred period of the second dose is applicable for:

-People who have active symptoms of COVID-19 infection

-Patients who have been anti-COVID-19 monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma

-Acutely unwell and hospitalised patients (with or without intensive care) who suffer from any other illness

India opened its Covid-19 vaccination drive for all above the age of 18 years from May 1. Under the third phase of its vaccination strategy, manufacturers are required to supply 50 per cent of their monthly doses to the government and the rest to state governments or the open market.

Vaccination continues as before in the government of India vaccination centres free of cost for healthcare and frontline workers and all people above 45 years of age.

Currently, India is inoculating its people with two vaccines — Covishield made by the Serum Institute of India, and Covaxin by Bharat Biotech.

With the third phase of the vaccination drive underway, as many as 17,27,10,066 doses have been administered so far, the Union Health Ministry informed.

Meanwhile, India reported a slight dip in new Covid cases. With 3,29,942 fresh infections in the last 24 hours, the total positive cases now stand at 2,29,92,517 according to Union Health Ministry. The cumulative toll mounted to 2,49,992 with 3,876 new deaths due to COVID-19. At present, there are currently 37,15,221 active coronavirus cases in the country.

Also Read: No link between 5G technology and the spread of Covid