FAQ: I Was Infected With Coronavirus; When Can I Get Vaccinated?

Vaccination against coronavirus is encouraged, irrespective of your history of infection.

Following the recommendations of the National Experts’ Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC), India decided to defer vaccination of those who have recovered from COVID by three months after recovery.

Earlier, the government had suggested that a person needs to wait two to eight weeks after recovery to get the jab.

So, should you get vaccinated if you are currently infected with COVID-19? When should you get your jab after infection? Here’s all you need to know, based on the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).

I have COVID-19 infection now. When can I get the vaccine?

You will be eligible to get your COVID vaccine three months after complete recovery.

I have not received my test results, but I have COVID-19 symptoms. Can I get vaccinated?

No, you cannot get vaccinated if you are displaying active COVID-19 symptoms.

According to the Health Ministry, such people may increase the risk of spreading the virus to others at the vaccination site. You can, however, get vaccinated at least two weeks after the symptoms subside.

However, another government panel has recommended waiting for six months after recovery if you are infected. The decision regarding this is awaited.

I took one dose of a vaccine, but contracted COVID before the next dose. Should I take the second dose?

Yes, you should definitely take the second dose. If you were infected after the first dose, the second jab should be deferred by three months after clinical recovery.

People with any other serious illness, requiring hospitalization or ICU care, must also wait for four-eight weeks before getting the vaccine.

But the second dose of Covaxin has to be taken in 28 days. What if I miss my date?

You can reschedule your appointment if you miss your date due to COVID. But you can get your second dose three months after recovery.

What about Covishield?

India on 13 May, increased the gap between the two doses of Serum Institute's COVID-19 vaccine, Covishield, to 12-16 weeks, based on the recommendation of a government panel from the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI).

Can I transmit COVID-19 if I get infected after taking the vaccine?

Yes, you can still transmit COVID if you get infected after receiving both doses of the vaccine. You must, therefore, immediately isolate yourself and wear a mask at all times.

Does the efficiency of the vaccine reduce if I get the second dose after getting infected with COVID-19?

There is no study yet in this respect. However, doctors reiterate that getting two doses of vaccine should not be seen as the ultimate cure for COVID-19. But it will reduce the severity of symptoms if one was to get infected.