You are fully vaccinated even if you haven’t taken a booster dose. The third dose, however, increases immunity, says infectious diseases expert Dr Subramanian Swaminathan, who works at the Gleneagles Global Hospitals. In an interview with TOI, he talks about the need for a booster dose and why a second booster isn’t required at the moment. Excerpts
Q: Several people who have missed the second and booster doses of the Covid-19 vaccine are worried because there is no stock of the vaccine now. They fear they will be prone to the disease amid the surge in cases if they are not adequately vaccinated.
A: Several studies have proven that vaccination offers protection against severe disease although it does not completely prevent a person from getting infected. So, it is advisable to get two doses of the vaccine and a booster for adults. But beating oneself over the missed dose amid the rising infections isn’t worth it.
Q: Several people who have missed the second and booster doses of the Covid-19 vaccine are worried because there is no stock of the vaccine now. They fear they will be prone to the disease amid the surge in cases if they are not adequately vaccinated.
A: Several studies have proven that vaccination offers protection against severe disease although it does not completely prevent a person from getting infected. So, it is advisable to get two doses of the vaccine and a booster for adults. But beating oneself over the missed dose amid the rising infections isn’t worth it.