Even if the level of reluctance among the general populace in getting vaccinated against coronavirus has fallen considerably, it remains a fact that a percentage still inculcates the sense of apathy. Convincing this particular segment is proving to be a difficult task both for administrations and medical departments and there’s an apprehension that reaching herd immunity might get delayed indefinitely due to it. The anti-vaccine stand surely has its roots in superstitions, made wide-spread through rumours that are still flowing on social media. Almost all states including Arunachal Pradesh have to confront this hurdle. But thankfully, a very recent survey-based study made by the ICMR has shown how inoculation can not only drastically reduce Covid-related hospitalisation cases but also mortality. Both the Centre and states must take special measures for a wider dissemination of this breakthrough finding through all forms of media to counter the waves of misinformation relating to Covid vaccines.
Titled ‘Clinical characterization and Genomic analysis of COVID-19 breakthrough infections during second wave in different states of India’, the study is the first of its kind analysis of post-vaccination ‘breakthrough infections’ from across the country covering 677 individuals in 17 states and UTs who were infected with Covid even after being vaccinated. 85 of these patients were found infected after taking dose 1 and remaining 592 after receiving both the shots. However, only 67 of them which form just 9.8 % of the total required hospitalization and only 3 (0.4 %) died. A significant part of this documentation is that none of the patients admitted to hospitals needed ventilation, oxygen support or the critical care of ICUs. This is by far the strongest evidence that Covid vaccines do have a role to play in shielding from the virus and not fluke as still believed by many. Another misconception that has unfortunately penetrated people’s mindset is that the first dose means full freedom from Covid. The fact is there is a significant gap in levels of efficacy between dose 1 & 2 and an earlier ICMR report which was an assessment of vaccine effectiveness among 1,17,524 personnel of Tamil Nadu Police in terms of doses also highlighted it. It’s not without reasons why NITI Aayog member Dr V K Paul while reiterating the significance of full vaccination on Friday recalled this report.
It’s through painstaking studies and research, the scientists of the country are churning out such exciting facts to instill more confidence about Covid vaccination among people. However, not enough is being done to make sure such valuable information reach the masses, either by government publicity departments or media. A professional and responsible approach with an emphasis on mass coverage in this regard is urgently needed. 

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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