‘Pregnant Women Not Being Vaccinated Right Now’

Q: Have you been vaccinated against COVID-19?

ASHA: Yes, I received the first dose of the vaccine at the Community Health Centre. I was informed about the date and time on the phone. Before the vaccination happened, I was asked questions about my blood pressure, sugar, etc. After this, the vaccine was given to me by an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM), and I was asked to wait there for 30 minutes. I have been informed that, after a few days, I will have to go again for my second dose.

Q: What information were you given prior to the vaccination? Did you have apprehensions?

ASHA: We knew that after 16 January 2021, we can be called for vaccination any time. I did not have any questions regarding vaccination.

Q: What cautionary measures were taken during the vaccination process?

ASHA: Physical distancing was maintained at the Community Health Centre. Everyone was asked health-related questions before the vaccination. Pregnant women though were not vaccinated.

Q: Were you told about whom you could go to in case you experienced any side effects?

ASHA: We were asked to call the Community Health Centre in case we experienced any problem, or to visit the centre if the problem was severe.

Q: Have you informed your local community regarding COVID-19 vaccinations? Are they asking questions?

ASHA: We have not given any information as of now. However, they know about the vaccination process, and how and when their turn will come via newspapers and other sources.

This interview was conducted with an ASHA worker in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh in Hindi on 25 February 2021, and has been translated.