David F. Overall receives the vaccine in Dubai.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Researchers from Oxford University say AstraZeneca’s coronavirus vaccine does more than protect people from falling seriously ill, it also appears to reduce transmission of the virus.

The study released on Wednesday suggested a single dose of the AstraZeneca formula provides a high level of protection for 12 weeks, according to AP.

The preliminary findings from Oxford University, a co-developer of the vaccine, could vindicate the British government’s controversial strategy of delaying the second shot so that more people can get a first dose. Up to now, the recommended time between the first and second dose has been four weeks.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the U.S. government’s top infectious disease expert, dismissed deliberately delaying second shots. He says the U.S. will "go by the science” and data from the clinical trials. The doses of the Pifzer and Moderna vaccines used in the U.S. are to be given three and four weeks apart.

Britain is using vaccines by AstraZeneca and Pfizer.

The 27-nation European Union has also authorized AstraZeneca.

Pfizer has not endorsed the British government’s decision to lengthen the time between doses.

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) announced on Wednesday that it has started providing the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID19 vaccine to certain groups of people in Dubai.

The DHA’s initiative is a commitment to provide the public a choice of different vaccines.

The AstraZeneca vaccine is available at two centres.

One Central Vaccination Centre is for the first category of people, while the DHA Vaccination Field Centre is for the second category of people.

The provision of the vaccine also supports the UAE’s broader objective of combating the pandemic.

The AstraZeneca vaccine is the latest addition to the list of COVID-19 vaccines offered by DHA, which include the Pfizer- BioNTech and Sinopharm vaccines.

A British expat based in Dubai, David F. Overall was one of the first to take the AstraZeneca vaccine.

David wrote on Twitter, “I’m very honoured to have received my first AstraZeneca vaccine. I would like to thank @HHShkMohd for being an inspirational leader and keeping Dubai a  safe and wonderful place to live. I would also thank @DHA_Dubai for their amazing work.”

Photo used for illustrative purposes only.

Who are eligible for AstraZeneca vaccine:

People between the age group of 18-60 years

First Category includes:

Emiratis

Dubai residents who have a chronic disease

People of determination

Second category includes:

Frontliners

Vital sector workers

How to book an appointment:

First Category:

Call the DHA toll-free number 800 342

Second Category:

Appointment shall be scheduled in coordination with DHA and the organistaions

DHA said the vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect individuals from serious preventable diseases as it stimulates the body to build resistance to a particular infection and strengthens the immune system by training it to form antibodies.

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines stimulate the immune system without making the person ill.

Vaccines work in different ways but they all provide protection against the disease.

Why should I take the vaccine?

The vaccine is currently the best, safest and most effective method to control the COVID-19 pandemic and stop it from spreading, to protect yourself and others.

Target Group

It is preferable to give the vaccine to the largest percentage of society in order to achieve sufficient immunity required to prevent the spread of the virus.

Priority is given to people who are most at risk of infection or people at risk of serious complications from infection and then to the remaining segments of society.

Pre-Vaccination Checklist for COVID-19 Vaccines

- If you have any symptoms such as fever.

- If you have a medical history such as diabetes, car- diovascular disease, etc.

- If you are allergic to any vaccine, food, medicine or substance OR if you carry a self-injectable adrenaline.

- If you are pregnant or you are planning to get pregnant within the next 3 months.

- If you are breastfeeding.

- If you suffer from an immunodeficiency disease or have a weak immunity.

Taking the vaccine and the number of doses required

Vaccination comprises of two doses, taken separately.

The gap between the two doses is 21 days.

The vaccine is given in the muscle of the upper arm.

For the vaccine to be effective, it is necessary to adhere to the appointment of the second dose as per the stipulated time.

It takes one week after the second dose of the vaccine to be effective and provide you with the necessary immunity.

Note: Even after taking both the doses for the vaccine, it is important to continue to take all precautionary measures including wearing a facemask.

General tips after taking the vaccine

Be aware of any side effects.

Comply with the instructions issued by your doctor.

Make sure you do not skip or delay your appointment for the second dose of the vaccination. This is important for the vaccine to be effective and to provide you with the necessary protection.