Vitebsk region medics joined the flash mob "I got vaccinated, and you?" and shared their personal experience
Infectious disease specialists, therapists, obstetrician-gynecologists, epidemiologists, ambulance workers, dermatologists and venereologists supported the current flash mob… Many of them have repeatedly fought against the new virus, provided assistance to patients with COVID-19, including severe cases. And when a new weapon appeared in this anti-COVID war, they decided to say their "yes" to vaccination, based on their experience and demonstrating a personal example.
“Vaccination is the protection of the nation,” “We are for vaccination!”, “Vaccination will save!” – call the participants of the flash mob to draw the attention of their compatriots to the importance of creating herd immunity, which will stop the pandemic. This is also the conviction of Yevgeny Provorotsky, an infectious disease specialist at branch No. 2 of the Vitebsk City Central Polyclinic, who, along with his colleagues, completed the full course of Sputnik V vaccination. The doctor has several arguments in favor of this decision.
Firstly, forty years of experience as an infectious disease specialist. The medic understands that in some cases, only vaccination can save people from the insidious virus. Secondly, in his polyclinic, Yevgeny Petrovich is on the front line – he conducts primary appointments in the fever clinic, including those with suspected coronavirus, and the preliminary diagnosis is confirmed in some patients. Thirdly, the doctor is in the risk group not only due to his professional activities but also due to his age – he is already 70 years old.
– I experienced COVID-19 myself, I had a severe case of coronavirus pneumonia. I understand perfectly well that immunity doesn't last that long, which is why I got vaccinated, as the vaccine promises protection for up to two years, – says the doctor. – I know what vaccinations are and how they protect. I get vaccinated against the flu every year and hardly ever get sick. I tolerated the coronavirus vaccination well, without any side effects, not even minimal symptoms.
The doctor shares his personal experience with his patients, as well as during awareness campaigns with the public and meetings with work collectives. He is often asked as a specialist, "Will I feel unwell after the vaccination?".
– In my opinion, such questions are due to people's lack of awareness, although extensive informational work is being carried out. The coronavirus vaccination campaign has not been going on for that long, but some experience has already been gained. I haven't heard of a single case yet where a patient got COVID-19 after vaccination. And this, I believe, is a strong argument. Besides, one must weigh the risks of getting sick against the probability of acceptable side effects. The vaccine, as scientists claim, reduces the risk of developing the disease by more than 90%, and in other cases, the infection will be mild, – explains Evgeny Provototsky.
In turn, Dmitry Romanov, a hygienist at the regional center for hygiene, epidemiology, and public health, has not had the new coronavirus, but decided to get vaccinated to be calm for himself and his loved ones. He did not experience any side effects after the first or second dose, feels well, but still observes mask etiquette in public places.
– The public should understand that vaccination is an integral part of infectious disease prevention. And if such an opportunity arises, one must definitely take advantage of it, – advises the specialist based on his personal experience and professional knowledge.
According to the Chief State Sanitary Doctor of the region, Vladimir Sinkevich, more than 65% of healthcare workers in the Vitebsk region have been vaccinated against the new coronavirus to date. Social institutions with round-the-clock stays have actively joined the vaccination campaign – almost 90% of residents and more than half of the staff have been vaccinated. Vaccination of teachers, representatives of other risk groups, as well as people over 61 years old and with a number of chronic diseases is gaining momentum in the region.
In addition to specific immunoprophylaxis, the sanitary and epidemiological service urges residents of the region to continue to observe physical distancing in crowded places, use masks, hand sanitizers, lead a healthy lifestyle and strengthen immunity, especially since summer offers many opportunities for this.
