Data shows only 56 per cent of those registered turned up to take the COVID vaccine over two days of vaccination drive in Ahmedabad across hospitals and healthcare facilities. 

While no serious adverse event of side-effects has been reported in the state, city health officials admit that not 100 per cent of frontline warriors registered are coming forward to take the shot. 

Many of those who have recovered from coronavirus are citing the presence of antibodies in their systems which would give them a fighting chance against reinfection. Most who are avoiding the vaccine otherwise, highlight non-availability of long-term research data of the vaccine’s effect on humans as a key reason for their delay in getting vaccinated.

“We are awaiting other vaccines to hit the market to compare the efficacy of different vaccines and choose the best shot. We also want to wait and watch to ensure the vaccine does not have any major side effects. So far, the scenario is quite promising as no major adverse event has been recorded barring fever and weakness. Fever and some weakness is definitely a major issue,” said a doctor at SVP Hospital who has not taken the shot yet.

“We are not sure of how long the vaccine protection will last. If it is going to be only three to six months, I would rather wait. The vaccine was given permission for emergency use without much data. I have decided to wait for the next fortnight to ascertain its safety and then opt for vaccination,” said another doctor.

A private doctor who was invited for vaccination on priority did not take the shot citing his having recovered from Covid-19. “Currently, I have the protection of antibodies. I have a window of the next three months to monitor the performance of various vaccines and choose to get vaccinated when different vaccines are available in the open market," said the doctor. 

An AMC officer said that there is some reluctance among the frontline health workers. “Many claim being too busy with patients. Some even say they were out of town. Some reluctance was anticipated, but once people get assured the vaccine is safe, the drive will post robust compliance,” the official said.

Deputy municipal commissioner Dr Om Prakash Machra said “Taking the vaccine is not compulsory, it is voluntary. We cannot mandate; all those who turn up will be vaccinated.”

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