Head Of PB IDI: Use Paracetamol Or Ibuprofen If You Experience Mild AEFIs After Vaccination

JAKARTA - The Elected Chairperson of the Executive Board of the Indonesian Doctors Association (PB IDI) Dr. Adib Khumaidi SpOT, said the public could use pain relievers if they experienced mild symptoms, such as fever or headache, related to Post-Immunization Adverse Events (KIPI) after the COVID-19 vaccine.

"So far there have been complaints (AEFI) but they are mild ones such as fever, aches, or headaches. These can be treated by taking pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen," said Adib in Antara Talk, Tuesday, June 22.

He said that despite the potential for AEFI in AstraZeneca vaccine recipients, the public should not hesitate to receive the vaccine because similar reactions were also found in Sinovac vaccine recipients, as well as Sinopharm used in the Mutual Cooperation Vaccination program.

"So it's a normal reaction, just like when children undergo DPT immunization (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus). If fever or headache is found, we always recommend parents to give their child painkillers such as paracetamol," said Adib.

People who have AEFIs are advised to consult a doctor if they experience a more severe reaction than fever, aches, or headaches after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

"Immediately take him to the hospital if there are severe complaints. People can go to the hospital about 1x24 hours after receiving the vaccine (if the reaction worsens)," said Adib.

The general public aged 18 years and over have received the COVID-19 vaccine since the end of May 2021. Vaccination is expected to be completed in December 2021 with an initial target of March 2022 for 180 million people in Indonesia.