Navigating COVID-19 Vaccination: Concerns About Doses and Future Implications

Q: Navigating COVID-19 Vaccination: Concerns About Doses and Future Implications

Dear Sir/Madam： <br>1. <br>The current recommendation from the epidemic command center to administer three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine is based on research reports from domestic and international experts and the consensus of top medical and public health professionals in the co

COVID-19 vaccine

Hello, Doctor.
Currently, the pandemic is severe.
Some say that most of the viruses are mild, while the government is very proactive in encouraging the public to get vaccinated, even deciding to move towards administering a fourth dose...
I would like to ask, most people have received two doses of the vaccine, but within less than six months of this pandemic, many have already received a third dose.
Is getting three doses in six months too much? Will there be a possibility of receiving a fifth, sixth, or even seventh dose in the future? The vaccines were granted emergency use authorization, and there are many concerns that no one knows about...
Moreover, there are ongoing discussions about mixing vaccines...
We are walking a historical path, and no one knows what will happen, right? Are we just observing and recording data as we go? Most doctors are also unclear about the exact effects of the virus and the long-term concerns regarding the vaccines, correct? If that’s the case, getting vaccinated could have side effects, and not getting vaccinated could expose one to the virus.
Doctors are often exploring options, but it has been stated that the virus has become milder.
Does this refer to vaccinated individuals or those who are unvaccinated? I am unsure how to help myself; I previously received one dose of the vaccine but experienced prolonged discomfort, and my doctor advised me to consider vaccination again when my condition improves.
Additionally, will vaccination lead to needing a shot every few months? This surely raises concerns, but currently, no one knows, right? Is it correct to follow the government's advice and keep getting vaccinated? Can receiving just one dose effectively prevent severe illness from the virus?

yiwen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/21

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Sir/Madam:
1.
The current recommendation from the epidemic command center to administer three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine is based on research reports from domestic and international experts and the consensus of top medical and public health professionals in the country.
In fact, this is also the approach taken by many advanced countries around the world; it may not be perfect, but it is the most widely accepted method to date.

2.
According to most research reports, individuals who have received the complete three doses of the vaccine tend to experience milder symptoms when contracting COVID-19 compared to those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated.
Of course, there are a very small number of individuals who have not been vaccinated at all and still experience mild or asymptomatic cases of COVID-19.
However, medicine currently cannot identify who those fortunate individuals are.

3.
Currently, COVID-19 vaccines worldwide are authorized for emergency use by various governments.
The risks you are concerned about certainly exist; however, seeing hundreds of thousands of deaths due to COVID-19 in various countries has compelled governments to grant emergency authorization.

4.
According to epidemiological reports, vaccination is intended to prevent severe illness; receiving three doses is more effective than two doses, and two doses are more effective than one.
If you choose to stop vaccination due to intolerable side effects, that is your personal decision, and others cannot force you.
As for the formulation of government policies, as mentioned earlier, they are based on the wisdom of top medical and public health professionals in the country.
Therefore, rather than simply following the government, it is more accurate to follow the guidance of experts and scholars.

5.
If you still have questions, please discuss them with your family physician or visit the infectious disease outpatient department at a regional hospital for further answers.

Reply Date: 2022/04/21

More Info

Navigating the complexities of COVID-19 vaccination can be daunting, especially with the evolving nature of the virus and the ongoing recommendations from health authorities. Your concerns about the number of vaccine doses, potential side effects, and the implications of future vaccinations are valid and shared by many.

1. Vaccination Recommendations: As of now, health authorities recommend a primary series of vaccinations followed by booster doses to enhance immunity, especially in light of emerging variants. The initial two doses are typically followed by a booster, and in some cases, a second booster (fourth dose) is recommended, particularly for high-risk populations. The rationale behind this is to maintain a robust immune response as immunity can wane over time. Studies have shown that receiving additional doses can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19.

2. Concerns About Over-Vaccination: It is understandable to worry about receiving too many doses in a short period. However, the current evidence suggests that the benefits of vaccination, including the prevention of severe disease and hospitalization, outweigh the risks of potential side effects. Vaccines undergo rigorous testing and monitoring for safety, and while side effects can occur, they are generally mild and temporary. Serious adverse events are rare.

3. Future Vaccination Plans: The question of whether we will need a fifth, sixth, or even more doses is still being studied. The emergence of new variants may necessitate updated vaccines, similar to how flu vaccines are adjusted annually. Health authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance based on the latest data. It is likely that we will see a shift towards a more routine vaccination schedule, akin to flu shots, especially for vulnerable populations.

4. Understanding Virus Severity: The term "mild" in relation to COVID-19 can be misleading. While many vaccinated individuals experience milder symptoms, unvaccinated individuals can still face severe outcomes. Vaccination has been shown to reduce the severity of illness, but it does not guarantee complete immunity. Therefore, even vaccinated individuals should remain vigilant and practice preventive measures, especially in high-transmission areas.

5. Personal Health Considerations: If you have experienced adverse effects from previous vaccinations, it is crucial to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can help assess your individual risk and determine the best course of action for future vaccinations. It is also important to consider your overall health, any underlying conditions, and the potential risks of contracting COVID-19 without vaccination.

6. Navigating Uncertainty: The uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and its vaccines can be overwhelming. It is essential to stay informed through reliable sources and maintain open communication with healthcare professionals. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and the latest scientific evidence.

In conclusion, while the landscape of COVID-19 vaccination is continuously evolving, the emphasis remains on protecting public health through vaccination. The decision to receive additional doses should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, taking into account your health status and the current recommendations from health authorities. Staying informed and proactive about your health is the best approach in navigating these uncertain times.

Similar Q&A

Navigating HPV and COVID-19 Vaccination: Key Considerations

On November 25, I received the first dose of the HPV vaccine, and I was scheduled to receive the second dose on January 26, but due to a sudden rise in COVID-19 cases, I am hesitant about whether to prioritize receiving the COVID-19 booster (BNT). Question 1: Should I proceed w...

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine
Hello, both types of vaccines are not live attenuated vaccines. To facilitate the observation of reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine, it is recommended to space the administration of the two vaccines by at least one week. There is no strict rule on which vaccine should be administe...

Understanding COVID-19 Vaccine Impact on Health and Long-Term Effects

Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask: I received my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (AstraZeneca) on September 10, 2021, my second dose (BioNTech) on November 24, 2021, and my booster dose (BioNTech) on March 1, 2022. I would like to know what the outcomes would be if I do not r...

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine
Hello! The circulating strains of the COVID-19 virus are rapidly mutating. If you are concerned about contracting the virus and its complications, it is recommended that you receive the latest vaccine as advised by the Centers for Disease Control. Currently, there is no method to...

COVID-19 Vaccine Injection Concerns: Tetanus and Allergy Considerations

Hello, doctor. I am inquiring on behalf of a friend regarding COVID-19 vaccination questions. The questions are as follows: 1. If they recently received a tetanus shot (about 2 weeks ago), is it safe to receive the vaccine? 2. They had an allergic reaction to a contrast agent due...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, 1. There are currently no relevant international recommendations regarding this matter; however, expert consensus generally suggests that different types of vaccines should be administered at least one month apart for optimal results. 2. It is true that the Moderna vac...

COVID-19 Vaccine Concerns for Women in Menopause: A Guide

Hello, I am 52 years old. Last April, I visited a gynecologist and blood tests indicated that I have entered menopause. Since then, I have experienced menopausal symptoms such as insomnia, night sweats, anxiety, and palpitations, which have been fluctuating in severity. In Januar...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. K: 1. The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is a non-replicating viral vector vaccine containing the gene for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S protein) and is used for the prevention of COVID-19. This vaccine has received emergency use authorization from the WHO, the EU, and ...