The booster or precaution dose against Covid for healthcare workers, frontline workers and those 60 years and above with comorbidities starts on Monday.
In Kolkata, all 141 health clinics of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and government and private healthcare facilities will administer the booster shots.
All that you need to know.
Who is eligible for the precaution dose?
All those who are 60 years and above with comorbidities are eligible for the precaution dose. The gap between the second dose and the precaution dose must be at least nine months or 39 weeks. Messages are sent to eligible people, reminding them of the precaution dose.
What if I recently had Covid infection?
The precaution dose will be deferred. One who has suffered from Covid is advised to take the precaution dose after three months from the period of recovery.
Will I get the same vaccine?
Yes. According to the ministry of health guidelines, the vaccine administered as the first and second dose will be given as the precaution dose. So, if someone has taken Covishield as the first and second dose, he or she will get it as the precaution dose as well. The precaution dose is for Covishield and Covaxin recipients. The government is yet to decide on the precaution dose for Sputnik V.
Do I need to register afresh on the Co-WIN app?
No new registration is required. Even those who have taken two doses on different registrations with separate mobile phone numbers and hence have two first dose certificates, should not get a fresh registration done. The health ministry has said the issue of two registrations is being addressed and updates will be sent to the recipient. It is the responsibility of the vaccinator to locate the records of the recipient by searching either the reference ID mentioned in the vaccination certificate, ID card used for vaccination or mobile number.
What documents do I need to carry to the vaccination centre?
The certificate for the second dose of vaccination and Aadhaar card. At the vaccination centre, one has to provide the mobile phone number used for registration.
Do I need to carry a document for comorbidity?
Those who are 60 or above with comorbidities will not be required to produce any certificate from a doctor at the vaccination centre. They are expected to have taken advice from the doctor before opting for the booster shot.
How do I book an appointment?
Online appointments are open. Also, there is a provision for walk-in vaccinations. Most private hospitals in Calcutta said they are accepting bookings over the phone as well as allowing walk-in vaccinations. A few are having only walk-in options. A CMC official said walk-in vaccination will take place and depending on the rush, it would be decided later whether any other method of booking would be opened.
What about the price at private centres?
The price will be the same as the second dose. Private hospitals are charging Rs 1,050 for Covaxin and Rs 150 for service charge, which makes it Rs 1,200 for every dose. Covishield costs Rs 630. Along with a service charge of Rs 150, a jab costs Rs 780 at most private centres. However, a few private hospitals are charging more.