PANAJI:The Union Health Ministry has prepared a fact-sheet to guide front line workers and vaccinators on counselling pregnant women about the value and precautions of the Covid-19 vaccine so that they can make an informed decision.
Although more than 90 per cent infected pregnant women recover without any need for hospitalisation, rapid deterioration in health may occur in a few and that might affect the foetus also, the document said. “It is, therefore, advised that a pregnant woman should take Covid-19 vaccine,” it said.
However, pregnancy does not increase the risk of Covid-19 infection, the document stressed.
Asmptomatic pregnant women appear to be at an increased risk of severe disease and death. In case of severe disease, like all other patients, pregnant women shall also need hospitalisation. Pregnant women with underlying medical conditions like high blood pressure, obesity, age over 35 years are at a higher risk of severe illness due to Covid-19, the fact sheet said.
According to the document, a front line worker or a vaccinator needs to counsel pregnant women about the availability, value and precautions of the Covid-19 vaccine.
“This note provides you with the information that you need to educate and support pregnant women so that they can make an informed decision about getting the Covid-19 vaccine,” the note said.
