People are confused over period of immunity being changed frequently after taking first dose of Corona vaccine. It appears that not mentioning reasons for projecting these changes by scientists, is a major reason behind this co0nfusion.
Earlier taking second dose of Covaxine was stated as 28 days and for Covishield it was 4 to 6 weeks. It was later mentioned that Covishield can be taken after 6 to 8 weeks for better results (immunity). Now this period has again been extended to more than 8 weeks and upto 12 weeks.
Dr Sanjeev Patankar, President of Maharashtra and Goa branch of Microbiologists Association of India, stated that scientific observation on persons who have taken first does, quantum of anti-bodies in their body must have been studied. This led to announcement of extended period for administering the second does.
Reports of extension of period for taking the second dose are coinciding reports on non-availability of vaccines. This has led to people considering this extension as political move. People suspected that the period is being extended to conceal failure of the government to ensure smooth and adequate supply of vaccine doses. As scientists did not explain the reasons for extension of the period for second dose, the suspicion continued to haunt the people’s mind.
Unfortunately the Task Force constituted by the Maharashtra Government consists of doctors only. Inclusion of microbiologists, pharmacists, virologists in the Task Force has been emphasized, as they are experts in study on behavior of viruses.
The confusion is resulting in common person losing faith in Government and at the same time on researchers. In the interest of the common person that scientific data and explainations should be projected, so that the vaccination drive could be run smoothly.
Reports of some quacks treating Corona patients by giving a small quantity of liquor, is also being circulated. Dr Patankar stated that it is true that alcohol breaks lipid quoting of virus. Sanitizers used contain alcohol. However, side-effects of using alcohol for treating Corona patients are more dangerous than Corona itself. This aspect has been overlooked by the person using liquor to treat the patients.
