COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose)
Booster Vaccine · 18+ years (9-12 months after primary series completion)
18+ years (9-12 months after primary series completion)
Age Group
Booster restores efficacy to ~75-95%; significantly reduces hospitalization and severe disease risk
Efficacy
₹780–₹1,200 (private) / Free (Govt)
Cost Range
Serum Institute (Covishield)
Manufacturer
💉About the COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) Vaccine
COVID-19 immunity wanes over time, particularly against infection (though protection against severe disease is better maintained). Booster doses restore waned immunity and provide improved protection against newer variants. India launched its precautionary booster dose (3rd dose) programme in January 2022 starting with frontline workers and elderly.
Efficacy
Booster restores efficacy to ~75-95%; significantly reduces hospitalization and severe disease risk
Age Group
18+ years (9-12 months after primary series completion)
Cost Range
₹780–₹1,200 (private) / Free (Govt)
Manufacturer
Serum Institute (Covishield)
Category
Booster
Protection
3 diseases
Find Vaccination Centres Near You
Book your COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) at 200+ certified hospitals and clinics across India. Walk-in or scheduled appointments available.
🛡️Diseases Prevented
📅Dosage Schedule
Single precautionary dose 9-12 months after completing 2-dose primary series. Heterologous boosting (different vaccine from primary series) is allowed and may be more effective. Covishield, Covaxin, or mRNA vaccines (where available) can be used as boosters.
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⚠️Common Side Effects
- 1Similar to primary doses: injection site pain
- 2fatigue
- 3headache
- 4myalgia
- 5fever. Generally milder than primary series. Systemic reactions more common after mRNA booster.
🚫Who Should NOT Get This Vaccine
- 1Same as primary COVID-19 vaccines. Defer if currently COVID-19 positive (until recovered + 3 months).
✅Who Should Get the COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) Vaccine
- 118+ years (9-12 months after primary series completion) — as recommended by national immunisation guidelines
- 2Individuals without prior immunity or with incomplete vaccination history
- 3People at higher risk of exposure due to travel, occupation, or close contact with infected individuals
- 4Those advised by a healthcare provider based on their specific health profile and risk factors
- 5Pregnant women, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals should consult their doctor for personalised advice
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
Your Vaccination Journey
Before Vaccination
Consult your doctor to confirm eligibility for the COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose). Discuss any allergies, current medications, and your medical history. Avoid getting vaccinated if you have a fever or acute illness.
Vaccination Day
The COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) is administered by injection or orally by a certified healthcare professional. The procedure takes just a few minutes. You will be observed for 15–30 minutes for immediate reactions.
24–48 Hours After
Mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or fatigue are normal and resolve on their own. Stay hydrated and rest. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe.
Follow-Up Doses
Complete the full dosage schedule as prescribed — skipping doses reduces effectiveness. Follow-up doses are usually given within weeks to months of the first dose.
COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) Vaccination Cost in India (2024–25)
| Service | Govt / Free | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Vaccine Cost | Free (UIP eligible) | ₹780–₹1,200 (private) / Free (Govt) |
| Administration Fee | Nil | ₹100 – ₹500 |
| Pre-vaccination Consultation | ₹0 – ₹100 | ₹500 – ₹1,500 |
| Home Vaccination Service | Not available | ₹300 – ₹800 extra |
| Digital Certificate | Free (Co-WIN) | Included / ₹50–₹200 |
* Costs are approximate estimates for India (2024–25). Prices vary by city and provider. Under India's Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP), several vaccines are available free at government health centres.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) vaccine?+
COVID-19 immunity wanes over time, particularly against infection (though protection against severe disease is better maintained). Booster doses restore waned immunity and provide improved protection against newer variants. India launched its precautionary booster dose (3rd dose) programme in January 2022 starting with frontline workers and elderly.
Who should get the COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) vaccine?+
The COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) is recommended for 18+ years (9-12 months after primary series completion). It falls under the Booster vaccine category. Consult your doctor to confirm if this vaccine is right for you based on your health history and existing immunity.
How effective is the COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) vaccine?+
The COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) has an efficacy of Booster restores efficacy to ~75-95%; significantly reduces hospitalization and severe disease risk. This means it provides significant protection against COVID-19 and Severe COVID-19 disease. Efficacy may vary based on age, health status, and the specific strain encountered.
What are the common side effects of COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose)?+
Common side effects include: Similar to primary doses: injection site pain; fatigue; headache; myalgia. These are typically mild and resolve within 1–3 days. Serious allergic reactions are rare — if you experience difficulty breathing, hives, or rapid heartbeat after vaccination, seek emergency care immediately.
Who should NOT get the COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) vaccine?+
The COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) should be avoided by: Same as primary COVID-19 vaccines. Defer if currently COVID-19 positive (until recovered + 3 months).. Always inform your healthcare provider of your full medical history before vaccination.
How much does the COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) vaccine cost in India?+
The COVID-19 Booster (Precautionary Dose) typically costs ₹780–₹1,200 (private) / Free (Govt) in India. Government health centres may offer it free or at subsidised prices for eligible age groups. Private hospitals and clinics may charge differently. Additional fees may apply for administration.
Community Q&A
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before vaccination. In emergencies, call 112.