Experts address COVID vaccine concerns and asthma triggers

Experts educate community on managing respiratory health amidst rising misinformation and asthma incidents

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New Delhi: In a concerted effort to quell public apprehensions surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine, the pulmonology team at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital has proactively addressed these concerns while also educating the community about the significant triggers of asthma and other respiratory conditions.
The experts emphasized both indoor and outdoor factors contributing to respiratory health issues.
Observed annually on the second Tuesday of May, World Asthma Day highlights asthma and lung health concerns. This year, celebrated on May 7, 2024, the pulmonologists at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital utilized the occasion to raise awareness about asthma triggers and dispel fears related to the COVID-19 vaccine.
Recent times have seen a surge in theories and misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccine, causing widespread hesitancy. This misinformation has generated significant tension and confusion. The hospital’s pulmonologists underscored that vaccines are designed to prevent infections from viruses or bacteria and, even if infections occur, they often mitigate the severity of symptoms. This was evident during the second phase of COVID-19, where vaccinated individuals generally experienced milder symptoms compared to those unvaccinated.
While acknowledging that every vaccine has its pros and cons, the experts highlighted the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for concerns about the vaccine or related health issues. They stressed that the COVID-19 vaccine, despite being developed rapidly, has proven effective for many individuals, with some experiencing minor complications.
The discussion also turned to asthma, a chronic condition affecting millions globally. The hospital’s experts identified both indoor and outdoor asthma triggers, noting that while outdoor factors are often uncontrollable, indoor triggers can be managed. Indoor triggers include pet fur, smoke from incense sticks, burning mosquito coils, poor indoor air quality, cigarette smoke, house dust mites, and cockroaches. On the other hand, outdoor triggers encompass air pollution and poor air quality often found in industrial cities, pollen grains, and dust from construction and other activities.
The pulmonologists advised adopting measures such as wearing masks and avoiding highly polluted areas to mitigate outdoor triggers. They also emphasized that asthma is a growing concern worldwide and, with diligent efforts and precautionary measures, it can be managed effectively, significantly improving the quality of life for those affected.