Coronavirus vaccine: Study urges people to do these TWO things before vaccination to increase efficacy
- 3 years ago
COVID vaccination drive is in full swing across the globe, including India. So far more than 19 lakhs people have received the first dose of COVID vaccine in the country and in the coming days, the government is all set to accelerate the process by roping in additional vaccination sites and allowing walk-in vaccinations. Right now, getting vaccinated seems like the only possible way to protect ourselves from the infectious virus. But for its efficacy, you have to do more than just getting the jab. As per a recent study, there are two specific things you need to do before getting your shot to increase the effectiveness of the vaccine - sleeping well and exercising.
The vaccine alone cannot protect you from the virus if your immune system is not strong. For our body to optimise the response to a vaccine, it is important to have a strong internal system, which can easily be affected by conditions like depression and stress. Taking too much stress or being depressed can potentially shorten immunity to the virus. However, as per the findings of a recent study published in the Journal Perspectives on Psychological Science, sleep and exercise are two particular activities that can increase immune response, even among those suffering from conditions that might otherwise harm long-term immunity.
As the coronavirus vaccine drive is expected to step up in the coming weeks, it is of utmost importance for people to prioritize their sleep to maintain optimal health. The researchers recommended that those planning to get the vaccine must get adequate sleep at night and engage in vigorous exercise at least 24-hour prior to it.
This is not the only study that has linked sleep and level of physical activity with the vaccination response. Another study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Medicine found that flu vaccines are effective in people who get a sufficient amount of sleep two nights before receiving the shot. A similar connection was found in case of vaccines for hepatitis A and hepatitis B.
The researchers pointed out that sleep deprivation can lead to fluctuation in immune processes needed to produce antibodies. To maintain the number of antibodies, getting an adequate amount of sleep is necessary. On the other hand, getting active before your COVID shot can help support your immunity after the vaccine.
It is good to establish a bedtime and morning routine. Restrict blue light exposure at least 30 minutes before bed by turning off your TV and other electronic devices and limit alcohol, caffeine and large meals before bedtime.
Additionally, engage in any kind of physical activity for 30 minutes every day before and after getting the shot. Maintain this routine until you get the second shot, which is usually given a few weeks later. Only after getting both the shots are you considered fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Source: Times of India
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