Child Vaccination in India: All You Need to Know for the Safety of Kids

Child Vaccination or Vaccination is the key to reducing the severity of any infection. With COVID-19 pandemic creating havoc across the globe, it was only the mass vaccination program that could reduce the number of active cases. While this may not reduce the occurrence of the infection, it guarantees to reduce the severity of COVID-19 symptoms. As per latest reports, more than 100 million people have been vaccinated in India [1]. 

The COVID vaccination program in India is based on WHO guidelines and scientific evidence. Vaccines have been approved only after conducting clinical trials. However, the initial vaccination was only approved for people above 18 years of age. Now, with the threat of the omicron variant increasing day by day, the government has decided to provide Child Vaccination for COVID-19 in the age group of 15 and 18 years of age. Here are a few questions that may help you understand more about COVID-vaccination for children. 

What are the available vaccines for children in India?

Amid the surge in COVID cases in India, around 40 lakh children between the ages of 15 and 18 years were given the first dose of Covaxin vaccine. This vaccination drive is eligible for kids born in 2007 or before. Apart from this, there are several other vaccines that will be soon made available for children of other ages as well. Some of these vaccines are:

• ZyCoV-D for kids above 12 years of age
• Covaxin for kids from 2 years of age
• RBD 
• Ad 26COV.2S for kids between 12 and 17 years of age

Two new vaccines, Corbevax and Covovax may be used as booster doses. However, it is not yet decided if a booster dose is required for all.

How many COVID vaccine doses are needed for children?

Similar to adult vaccines, children will be given two doses. These will be spaced 28 days apart. Since only Covaxin is currently available, the dosage required for other vaccines is not known.

Why to get your child vaccinated for Covid-19?

Vaccination is important to protect ourselves from infections. So, you should not miss out on your child’s vaccination for coronavirus. Follow the child vaccination chart right from birth so that you do not miss out on important vaccinations. Vaccines are developed after many clinical trials and careful review. So, these are absolutely safe for your kids. Vaccines provide immunity to your kids and protect them against many infections. 

When should your child get vaccinated?

Follow the vaccination chart to learn about the time when should your child get vaccinated. Ensure that you do not miss the vaccination date. Regarding COVID vaccines for children, it is important that you keep a proper gap between the two doses. Since it is now available, you can get your kids vaccinated as soon as possible. 

Is there any risk factor?

Covaxin has mild side effects such as:

• Fever
• Redness at injection site
• Fatigue
• Body pain
• Drowsiness
• Pain at injection site

Is online registration mandatory for COVID-19 vaccination?

It is important to register your children’s name and age at the Co-WIN site. You will be given a slot on the basis of which your kid will be vaccinated. This appointment can be booked either by online or offline mode [2].

Is COVID-19 vaccine available for children under 2 and under 5?

A vaccine is not available for children under 2 and 5 years of age as of now. Many vaccines are under the developmental phase for kids. After they pass clinical trials, they will be made available for children as per their age criteria.

Can I get COVID-19 vaccination without appointment?

If you are above 18 years of age, you can either schedule an online appointment or directly walk into the center and get your vaccination done. Children between 15 and 18 years of age can walk in to get vaccination shots and and you can download cowin certificate online.

Can I choose the COVID-19 vaccine for my kid?

No, it is not possible for you to choose the vaccine you prefer for your child. Considering that many vaccines are in the developmental phase, you need to stick to the vaccine cleared by the government. Children between the age group of 15 and 18 years can take Covaxin as of now. 

What are the precautions to be taken?

While the side effects are mild, it is important to follow COVID-19 protocols even after getting vaccinated. Wearing masks and following social distancing can provide protection from COVID-19 infection.

Now that you have a fair idea regarding COVID-19 vaccines for kids, get your children vaccinated. Negligence is the main reason for acquiring infections. So, treat vaccination as a priority and protect your children from harmful effects of COVID-19. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your kids, connect with reputed pediatricians on Bajaj Finserv Health. Book an appointment with a specialist near you within minutes and address symptoms on time. Take precautions and stay safe from COVID.