The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has approved the vaccination of pregnant women against COVID19. Pregnant women can now register on CoWIN or walk-in to the nearest COVID19 vaccination centre (CVC) to get themselves inoculated.

The health ministry today July 2 has accepted the recommendations of National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NTAGI) — an advisory committee used to make evidence-based decisions regarding vaccine and immunisation policy — to vaccine pregnant women in the country. The decision has been communicated to all the states and union territories to implement it under the ongoing COVID vaccination programme.

Studies have shown that COVID-19 infection during pregnancy may result in rapid deterioration of health of pregnant women. They are at an increased risk of severe diseases and it might affect fetus too, warned the press statement issued by the health ministry.

“… Pregnant women are at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 compared to non-pregnant women in case they get infected. Further, pregnant women with COVID-19 infection are at an increased risk for preterm birth and other adverse pregnancy outcomes including higher chances of neonatal morbidity,” read the press statement.

Last week on June 25, the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) had suggested that COVID-19 vaccine should be given to pregnant women as it can protect them from the infection. 

Also Read: Pregnant women can be vaccinated: ICMR director general

A recent study released by the ICMR on June 16 revealed that pregnant and postpartum women were more severely affected during the second wave in the country as compared to the first wave.

So far, only lactating women were recommended to take the COVID vaccine in India.

Also Read: COVID19 vaccination recommended for all lactating women: Health Ministry

As of today, a total of 340.1 million doses have been administered in the country.

Also Read: 58% pregnant women in villages confirmed checkups, vaccination in the lockdown