The World Health Organization has already expressed concern about the rising Covid-19 cases worldwide due to the Omicron variant. In a recently published statement from the organization, Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, urges vulnerable groups to remain cautious and get vaccinated for primary and booster doses. He also asked people not to go to crowded places to limit the spread of the virus.
The vulnerable groups he named in his statement include the elderly, those with pre-existing health problems, children under 18, and pregnant and lactating women. While the elderly and other people have come forward in droves to get vaccinated, pregnant and lactating women are still wary of it.
Vidhi Dhingra, senior clinical dietitian, said: “It is recommended by WHO to go for Covid vaccination if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pregnant ladies experience a mix of emotions and adjustments in their lives that can be especially aggravated during Covid-19 restrictions. It is important to take the vaccination to reduce the fear of contracting an infection and to cross at least one concern from the list, albeit with ongoing Covid appropriate precautions.”
The Union Ministry of Health is also leading the way in advising pregnant and lactating women to get vaccinated, as this will not only protect them but also boost their baby’s immunity. In a document published by the ministry, they answered the frequently asked questions that bust the myths and confusion women have regarding COVID-19 vaccination.
The third wave of Covid-19 also poses a new risk to unvaccinated pregnant and lactating women. Last week, Dr. Suresh Kumar, MD of Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital (LNJP) told ANI: “In recent days, 20 pregnant women infected with COVID-19 had been admitted to LNJP. They had very mild symptoms, but none of it came from Omicron.”
As the country is hit by the third wave of the pandemic, the population at risk needs additional protection.
Read all the Latest News, Breaking News and Coronavirus News here.
