TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian government has kicked off the Covid-19 vaccination for people with autoimmune disease and comorbidities. The immunization uses the Moderna vaccine.

A professor of the Medicine Faculty at the University of Indonesia, Iris Rengganis, said the benefits of vaccination for people with autoimmune disorders against the coronavirus far outweighed its disadvantages or side effects.

“Why should people with autoimmune disorders be vaccinated? Because the risk of being exposed to Covid-19 is greater than the risk of experiencing recurrence,” Iris remarked.

She explained there are a number of reports of side effects from the Moderna vaccine, such as allergic reactions. However, it also possibly occurs due to other vaccines.

“The number of adverse effects cases from this vaccination is very low,” Iris said.

Other side effects of Moderna vaccination include local pain at the injection site, redness, swelling, itching, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Vaccination for autoimmune survivors is allowed when they are in stable condition according to the doctor’s recommendations. However, if it has not been controlled yet, they cannot get a jab. There is no specific vaccine for people with autoimmune disease to date.

On this basis, Iris encouraged autoimmune survivors who are in stable and healthy condition to get the Covid-19 vaccine immediately at the vaccination center. She also reminded the public to keep complying with the health protocols other than getting vaccinated.

Read: Govt Intensifies Vaccination to Achieve Herd Immunity: SOE Minister

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