The Government of Pakistan is providing free COVID-19 vaccination to people aged 5 years and above. Vaccination centers across the country including mass vaccination centers in big cities are administering vaccines to hundreds of thousands of people every day. While vaccinating as early as possible is very important, it is also vital that all precautionary measures are taken while we visit COVID-19 vaccination centers.
Below is a summary of guidelines provided by the Ministry of National Health and the World Health organization (WHO) regarding precautionary measures to take when visiting a COVID-19 vaccination center.
Note: Before you head to the vaccination center, see this article on guidelines and registration for COVID-19 Vaccination.
General Precautions
The best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 is by following precautionary measures such as social distancing and hygiene practices recommended by the World Health Organization and the Government of Pakistan. You can also read an article on our website about COVID-19 preventive measures to learn more about the general precautions you can take to avoid contracting COVID-19. Also see our articles with various COVID-19 guidelines.
Things to Know Before You Leave for COVID-19 Vaccination!
There are a lot of rumors and misconceptions about COVID-19 circulating on social media. It is important to always get your information from trustworthy sources like the Government of Pakistan and the World Health Organization.
Patients who Might Need to Wait Before Getting Vaccinated
Some people might need to wait before getting vaccinated. This might include people who have recently undergone a major surgery or medical treatment or are currently suffering from a specific disease. If you have any questions about your health and whether it’s the right time for you to get vaccinated based on your symptoms, speak to a doctor, or call Sehat Tahaffuz Helpline at 1166.
According to the Ministry of National Health, the following individuals should not get vaccinated without consulting a doctor.
- Individuals having fever at the time of vaccination (should reschedule).
- Patients currently suffering from COVID-19.
- Those with mild COVID-19 symptoms can receive the vaccine after completing their isolation period.
- Individuals on short-term immunosuppressive medication should wait for 28 days after the medication ends.
- Patients who received a transplant may receive the vaccine 3 months after transplantation.
- Post chemotherapy patients may receive the vaccine 28 days after chemotherapy.
Guidelines to Follow When You Reach the Vaccination Center
Following are the basic measures you should take at the vaccination center:
1. Fill out the vaccination slip with relevant details including your full name, CNIC or CRC number, dosage (first or second), mobile number, age, and code received from 1166. Anyone going for vaccination must send their CNIC number to 1166 beforehand to register in the National Immunization Management System (NIMS).
2. Go to the registration counter on your turn to get yourself registered in the National Immunization Management System (NIMS). This will also allow you to download your COVID-19 vaccination certificate.
3. Always wear your mask and carry a hand sanitizer with you.
4. Maintain 6 feet distance while you wait for your turn.
5. Avoid crowding and cooperate with the facility staff; it will help you have a smooth vaccination experience.
6. Take a picture of your vaccination form for future reference.
7. Let the vaccinator / health official know if you have any medical conditions, such as pregnancy or a compromised immune system.
8. Wait for 15-30 minutes at the vaccination center after vaccination to ensure that you don’t have any adverse reaction. In case of an adverse reaction, immediately contact the onsite medical staff for medical assistance.
Possible Side Effects After COVID-19 Vaccination
While it is normal to build immunity without side effects, it is also common to experience some mild-to-moderate side effects that go away within a few days on their own. Some of the possible side affects you may experience after vaccination include:
- Soreness at the injection site
- Mild fever
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Muscle or joint aches
- Chills
- Diarrhea
If you experience continued discomfort after taking the vaccine, immediately contact a doctor. Upon their recommendation, you may take appropriate medication to tackle the discomfort.
Staying Healthy After Vaccination
Building your body’s immunity after vaccination takes time so be patient. If you are getting a two-dose vaccine, you will be considered fully vaccinated after two weeks of getting your second shot. While your body works on its immunity, you should take special care that you take a healthy diet.
Precautions After Vaccination
While COVID-19 vaccines have proved to be highly effective at protecting people against serious illness from COVID-19, there is a lot to be learned about whether a vaccinated person can still spread the virus. Therefore, it is important to continue practicing safety precautions to protect yourself and others, including avoiding crowded spaces, physical distancing, hand washing, and wearing a mask.
You can visit the Government of Pakistan’s COVID-19 Health Advisory Platform and National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) website for detailed information on vaccination and guidelines. You can also call the Sehat Tahaffuz Helpline at 1166 made available by Ministry of National Health Services Regulations & Coordination, Government of Pakistan.
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