COVID-19 vaccination is the only known way to fight the coronavirus at the moment. This is why the government is emphasizing the need for people to get vaccinated on priority. Even lactating women are getting vaccinated now but there are certain cases of Adverse Event Following Immunization (AEFI). Giving details about it, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said that 13 incidents of AEFI have been reported among lactating women till February 3. Mandaviya also informed the Lok Sabha tha tall the cases were minor. It must be noted that all AEFI cases, including those among lactating mothers, are monitored through a well-structured and robust surveillance system.
In written reply to a question, Mandaviya said that causality assessment of all serious and severe cases are carried out by a designated committee to determine if it is related to vaccine or vaccination process or otherwise.
The minister said that as on February 3, a total of 13 instances of AEFI were reported among lactating women and all were minor.
The National Adverse Event Following Immunization (AEFI) Committee monitors vaccine safety and recommends action to improve surveillance.
Periodic letters and monthly state-specific presentations on performance of AEFI surveillance with action points is also shared with states and union territories.
They are advised to regularly sensitise healthcare service providers to report AEFI instances, he said.