Cardiologist of the Colombo National Hospital Dr. Sampath Withanawasam says individuals with heart related illnesses must ensure they are vaccinated against the coronavirus.
Addressing a media briefing today, Dr. Withanawasam said most heart patients are hesitant to obtain the vaccine, adding that heart patients could face severe complications if they contract COVID-19, in comparison to individuals who do not have health complications.
Dr. Withanawasam said the vaccine will boost one’s immunity, claiming that the government too has prioritised heart patients in getting vaccinated, and encouraged heart patients to ensure they receive the jab.
Meanwhile, the Cardiologist claimed that most heart patients are prescribed warfarin, asprin and clopidogrel, adding such individuals need not stop medication in order to get vaccinated.
Dr. Withanawasam stated that warfarin is prescribed as a blood thinner, and encouraged persons taking warfarin to undergo an INR test and take a recent report when visiting a vaccination centre.
