Abu Dhabi - Some patients can get jab directly without any tests, says top official.
Some fully recovered Covid patients can take the vaccine "directly", a top health official in the UAE has clarified.
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In a video posted by the Government of Abu Dhabi Media Office, Dr Farida Al Hosani, spokesperson for the UAE’s government health sector, said that recovered patients can take the vaccine.
“If the infection was mild or without symptoms, individuals can take the vaccine directly,” she said.
"However, if the infection was moderate to serious, we recommend they conduct an antibody test to identify their immunity levels. If their immunity against the virus is insufficient, then they can take the vaccine,” she explained.
The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention in the US has also assured its citizens that it is safe to be vaccinated regardless of whether you have already had Covid-19. “That is because experts do not yet know how long you are protected from getting sick again after recovering from Covid-19,” said the CDC.
“Even if you have already recovered from Covid-19, it is possible — although rare — that you could be infected with the virus that causes the disease again. If you were treated for the coronavirus with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma, you should wait 90 days before getting a Covid-19 vaccine,” the centre added.
Recovered patients must have a chat with their doctors if they are unsure of the treatment they received.