In comparison to India, where many individuals are not even fully vaccinated, several other countries are administering a third and even a fourth COVID booster shot, stressing the need for a structured and systemic response. With COVID getting back on the radar and triggering fear of another COVID wave, several experts have called for a reality check.

They pointed out that the fourth shot of the COVID vaccine is unwarranted at the moment as most people in the country are yet to receive a third dose. They also stated that the situation in India differs significantly from that of other countries due to people developing hybrid immunity after being exposed to the virus and receiving the vaccination.

Dr. Satyajit Rath, faculty at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune, stated that the omicron wave hit India approximately about a year ago. If the infection did not trigger Omicron-specific immunity, then no other vaccine available in India can provide further protection.

The topic of the fourth dose of the COVID vaccine was brought up by Dr. Jayalal, former president of the Indian Medical Association, in a meeting with Union Health Minister, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, on Tuesday. He asked the Health Minister to consider providing the fourth dose for healthcare workers and frontline workers, as they are exposed to a large number of infected patients. This results in the accumulation of large volumes of viral loads, which can trigger a severe infection in the healthcare community.

(Source: https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/fourth-covid-19-vaccine-dose-in-india-unwarranted-right-now-but-increased-surveillance-needed-experts/cid/1906422 )