A COVID-19 vaccine is finally being rolled out. It is a sign of hope that finally some remedy is being found by medical science which will prove beneficial in controlling the transmission of coronavirus.    

While many countries have begun vaccinating their citizens, a cloud of confusion is swirling around the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, because of the few incidents of adverse effects that have come to light.

Over half of the world population still find themselves in a twilight zone whether to take vaccine or not. But health authorities have been stating that the vaccine is safe and generates a robust immune response. The minimal cases of adverse event are reported to be unrelated to the vaccine. Vaccine hesitancy is a reality. Therefore the simple way to clear misconception among people is to provide clear and honest information to the public. An assurance of safety, efficacy and post vaccine follow-up are essential factors to consider, if the vaccine is to be a success.

Until the vaccine was not found there were a high number of infections. Now it is time to restore public life to normal. As the world is in the midst of this massive exercise of vaccination, people are optimistic that very soon the world will be free of the pandemic.

The WHO Covax programme will take some time before people in poor and middle income countries are vaccinated, which is regrettable. We hope the wealthy countries assist in expediting the scheme and thereby save lives in the poor countries

Hanif A. Patel
Gujarat, India