Guidelines For Covid-19 Vaccination Of Children Aged 15 – 18 Years | Fortis Bangalore

Guidelines for COVID-19 Vaccination of Children Aged 15 – 18 Years

COVID-19, that brought this world to a screeching halt almost two years ago, is still a persistent pandemic and the new variants like Omicron are a major concern now. While it is normal for any virus to mutate, certain variants like Delta can be quite lethal and Omicron super contagious. Whichever the variant, certain SOPs in place like social distancing, frequent hand sanitization, face masks would help in combating the virus effectively. However, if there is one sure way of safeguarding ourselves from the coronavirus is getting vaccinated.

In India, inoculating the adults against corona virus started in the first half of 2021 and soon youth above the age of 18 too got included into the list of people that would require a jab. Most adults have completed their first shot, with others getting the second dose of it now. The precautionary doses for the doctors, frontline health workers, adults above the age of 60 with comorbidities have also begun.

With vaccination drive for the adults going on in full swing, the Government of India, has now initiated vaccination for the older children in the age group of 15 to 17.

It is certainly a time for the parents to heave a sigh of relief, as it will allow children to take part in extracurricular activities, attend schools, offline classes especially those appearing for the board examinations this academic year. As per the guidelines issued by the Union Health Ministry, all those whose birth year is 2007 and before are eligible for the vaccines.

Which Vaccine Is Available For Teenagers In India?

As on today, the only vaccine available for the children aged between 15 to 18 in India is Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin. Though Zydus Cadila’s COVID-19 vaccine ZyCoV-D has been approved for emergency use from the drug regulator on August 20, it is yet to be launched in India.

How To Prepare For Vaccination?

There is no preparation needed for getting jabbed against Coronavirus. Register on CoWIN app by providing a valid ID proof and get vaccinated in the nearest vaccination centre.

However, if your child is suffering from fever, diarrhoea, vomiting postpone the jab. “Children who are type-1 diabetics, undergoing treatment for cancer and on immunosuppressants for other health conditions should be given vaccine on priority,” says Dr Yogesh Gupta, Paediatrician with Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta, Bengaluru.

What Are The Side-Effects of COVID-19 Vaccine?

There won’t be any significant side effects associated with Corona vaccine. Some children may experience low grade fever, fatigue, body aches for 24 to 48 hours. However, if the symptoms are far more severe and persist for more than 24 hours, do talk to your doctor immediately.

Should Kids Be Observed At Vaccination Centre For 30 Minutes After Taking Vaccine?

Though not compulsory, doctors do recommend waiting at the hospital or vaccination centre, after getting the jab to rule out adverse reactions to the vaccine and to provide immediate treatment, if any.

Can Children Travel After Getting Vaccinated?

Vaccines aid in safeguarding the individual from the complications caused due to coronavirus. Various studies reveal that the effects caused due to coronavirus are very minimal and can recover faster. The children should follow all necessary COVID-19 protocols like wearing a mask, maintaining social distance, thorough washing of hands with a sanitizer etc for staying safe.

If your child is attending classes offline from the school, ensure proper personal hygiene like taking shower soon after reaching home, taking ample amounts of vitamin C in the form of food or supplements, intake of nutritious, immunity boosting foods for better protection.

What Should I Do If My Child Tests COVID Positive?

Coronavirus cases among youth, especially those under 20 years of age are not very prevalent. However, if your child shows any typical symptoms of coronavirus including loss of smell, taste, fever, cold, cough, fatigue, seek doctor’s help immediately. Go for home isolation or get admitted to hospital as per the doctor’s advice. Take all medications on time and keep up with your doctor’s appointment. Do not panic. The medical science has advanced in the past two years and is now effectively combating the virus.