Booked COVID Vaccine Slot? Here Are Things You Must Keep In Mind Before Visiting Centre

Covid-19 vaccination for people over the age of 18 years began in the second phase of India's vaccination drive amid limited availability of units across the country. While the drive continues to go on at the best of its capacity, slots are hard to find, especially for those over 18 and below 45 years of age.

So, here are some things to keep in mind before visiting a centre:

1) Vaccination registration mandatory

The only way to get oneself vaccinated is to register through the government's official CoWin portal and get a slot booked. Apart from the low availability of slots, the problem is that there is no way CoWin can notify users when a slot is available in their area.

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But some websites (VaccinateMe.in, GetJab.in, etc) are essentially acting as a notification system to alert those who have registered for the vaccine of a slot availability in their area. Other than this, some also show information on the vaccine centres and the type of vaccine available in the area - Covaxin or Covishield. These websites make use of CoWIN Application Programme Interfaces (APIs) to serve as a user interface and avail the information.

2) Keep ID proof handy

Keep the vaccination booking notification and photo identification document ready. Don¡¯t wear a shirt/upper with tight sleeves. Wear short or loose sleeves that can be rolled up smoothly. This will give the vaccinator easy access to your arm.

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3) Identify nearest centre, be punctual

Check the Arogya Setu app or the COWIN website to identify the nearest vaccination centre. In correspondence to communication about the date and time of your vaccination, reach the vaccination centre. Follow the instructions set out by the vaccination centre.

India Times/ Gaurav Mehta

4) Follow COVID protocol

Maintain 6-feet distance while standing/sitting as you await your turn. Avoid crowding, and cooperate with the authorities; their instructions will help you have a smooth vaccination experience. Always wear your mask and carry a small bottle of hand sanitiser with you. After the jab, avoid meeting in large groups and indoor gatherings.

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5) Double masking advised

Double masks to prevent COVID-19 is another protective measure that you can make use of, to reduce your chances of getting infected. Double masks refer to the practice of wearing two masks, helping create a stronger barrier against COVID-19.