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Novavax COVID-19 Shot Wins Full FDA License, But With Strict Age and Risk Limits

May 18, 2025, 10:49 am

The US Food and Drug Administration has fully approved Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine. But it is done with uncommon limitations. In contrast to its rivals Pfizer and Moderna, Novavax is now only allowed to provide its vaccine to people 65 and over—or individuals 12 to 64 with a high-risk medical condition.

This move sharply limits its scope, even though it previously was used under emergency authority for anyone 12 and above.

Conventional Vaccine, Restricted Use

Only a single protein-based COVID-19 vaccine is made by Novavax, which can be found in the US. So far, the FDA had approved it under emergency use for all age groups. But at the end of Friday, the agency narrowed the criteria. It now completely approves the vaccine only for older people or those with serious health conditions.

In the meantime, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are still fully authorized for all individuals 12 years and older. They also have approval for children as young as 6 months. This FDA action reflects a clear change in vaccine policy—perhaps caused by the Trump administration’s current COVID-19 position.

Political Influence Behind the Scenes

The FDA Friday letter did not clarify why it set these tight restrictions. Yet, current Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other Trump administrators have long expressed skepticism about vaccine safety. Their presence could have influenced the decision of the agency.

Informants said reporters the FDA initially intended to give unrestricted approval to Novavax by April 1. But at the last minute, the agency reversed field. It requested the company to carry out another post-approval test—an unprecedented move after full licensure.

New Trials Ordered Post-Approval

The FDA asked Novavax to conduct several follow-up studies. One will look at potential connections between the vaccine and cardiac conditions. The other will determine the benefit of ongoing vaccination in adults between 50 and 64 without high-risk health conditions.

Novavax CEO John C. Jacobs welcomed the limited approval. He added that older people and those with chronic disease are most likely to take seasonal COVID-19 vaccines.

This important milestone shows our devotion to these groups,” he stated.

Outlook for US Vaccine Policy

In the next month, CDC advisors will weigh whether annual COVID-19 shots should persist in all Americans—or merely in vulnerable populations. The Novavax approval indicates the Trump administration might have already spoken.

For Novavax, the approval lends credibility—but to a whole lot fewer qualifying recipients. For Americans, it marks a change in how the government might proceed with future COVID-19 vaccination plans.

Pentagon Admits To Spreading Propaganda Against Chinese Sinovac Vaccine In Philippines

July 26, 2024, 7:02 pm

US Department of Defense has admitted to disseminating propaganda in the Philippines aimed at undermining the efficacy of China’s Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine, according to a recently disclosed memo. The revelation, made public by a former top government official, was documented in a June 25 memo and verified by Reuters.

The Pentagon confirmed that it engaged in efforts to cast doubt on Sinovac’s safety and effectiveness. This admission was made in response to a podcast by Harry Roque, former spokesperson for Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, and later corroborated by Reuters. The memo detailed communications between the US Defense Department and the Philippine Departments of Foreign Affairs and National Defense, highlighting “missteps in COVID-related messaging.” It noted that the anti-vaccine campaign, which involved the use of social media content, was deemed “misaligned with our priorities.”

The Pentagon assured that oversight and accountability measures for information operations have been strengthened since 2022. The document revealed that the US military ceased its COVID-related messaging by August 2021.

US Defense Department spokesman Pete Nguyen confirmed the distribution of social media content about Sinovac but did not provide specifics about the document. Initial concerns from US national security officials centered around China using the pandemic to gain geopolitical advantages through vaccine aid, which spurred the disinformation campaign.

The operation, which involved online bots and fake social media accounts, extended beyond the Philippines to Central Asia, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. The Philippines, which experienced severe COVID-19 impacts with nearly 67,000 deaths and over 4 million infections by 2024, was a significant target due to its reliance on Sinovac.

The Philippine Senate, led by Senator Imee Marcos, has launched an investigation into the US military’s covert operation. Marcos condemned the campaign as “evil, wicked, dangerous, unethical,” and questioned its legality and potential ramifications for the Philippines.

Centre “forcefully” stopped Pfizer’s COVID vaccine: KCR hits out at Modi-government

February 8, 2023, 1:48 pm

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao has alleged that the Central government did everything possible to “forcefully” prevent import of COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer, especially when people were ready to get the best vaccine. Rao claimed that he and several other Chief Ministers had lobbied for Pfizer in India, but the PM Modi Government stalled the entry of the US pharmaceutical giant into India.

India reports 2587 cases of Covid-19

January 3, 2023, 11:56 am

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday informed that India has recorded 2587 new cases of COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. A huge jump in the COVID-19 cases has been seen as on Monday 173 cases were reported. In the last 24 hours, the number of patients recovered from COVID-19 is 222, and a total of 4,41,45,667 recovered. Talking about the COVID test conducted in the previous 24 hours is 1,51,186. However, in the last 24 hours, 47,769 vaccine doses were administrated.

Kim Jong Un suggests that North Korea might start COVID-19 vaccination soon

September 9, 2022, 12:24 pm

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, on Thursday, suggested that the isolated country could begin COVID-19 vaccinations in November. While giving a speech to the North Korean national assembly, Kim cited World Health Organization warnings that the winter could see a resurgence in coronavirus infections.

Last month, Kim declared victory over COVID-19 and ordered the lifting of maximum anti-epidemic measures imposed in May, though adding that North Korea must maintain a “steel-strong anti-epidemic barrier.”

He said, “Therefore, along with responsible vaccination, we should recommend that all residents wear masks to protect their health from November.”

North Korea has never confirmed the number of people infected with the COVID virus because, apparently, it lacks the means to conduct widespread testing, but it has reported a daily number of patients suffering from fever.

According to North Korea’s tally, the number of patients with fever rose to 4.77 million in the country, whose population is estimated to be 25 million. But it has not lodged any new case since 29 July.

Experts, including the WHO, have cast doubt on those numbers, citing an apparent lack of testing capacity in North Korea.

North Korea has not confirmed administering any COVID-19 vaccinations, although customs records show that it has imported some unspecified vaccines from China this year.

‘Precaution dose necessary’ says COVID experts

August 18, 2022, 11:21 am

Dr. VK Paul, one of the experts on COVID in the nation, has stated that it is required to take a booster dose. Covid is still available. Recently, there have been more cases, according to Dr. Paul. His comments come amid worries over people’s casual attitude toward receiving the third dose of the vaccine. A specific emphasis is being placed on booster doses as the government works to increase immunisation coverage.

The NITI Aayog member stated, “Precaution doses are necessary. All precautions are also necessary. while masks and social distancing are crucial. The Corbevax vaccine has been approved for a precaution dose for heterologous or mix-match option.”

An increase in COVID cases is being reported globally, and an increase in deaths has rekindled concern. According to the WHO’s most recent data, Omicron remains the most common strain worldwide, and mortality overall has increased by 35% in the last four weeks.

Delhi is one of the regions in India that has recently experienced an increase in hospital admissions.

While 93,863,47,700 people in the nation have received the second dosage, only 1,29,053,987 people—or almost 13% of the total—have received booster doses.

The largest vaccination drive against the coronavirus was launched in India last year. The health ministry reported that “India’s COVID-19 vaccination drive has reached 208.93 crore (2,08,93,68,966) today” in the daily bulletin on Wednesday night.

In its most recent bulletin, the government reported 12,608 new cases and 72 deaths, with the death toll from Punjab and Haryana reduced.

Jamia University organizes five-day COVID vaccination camp

August 2, 2022, 6:29 pm

A five-day COVID vaccination camp is being organized at Jamia Millia Islamia University to mark the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.

This camp started on Tuesday (2 August) and will be run till August 6. People above 18 years of age can participate in this camp. According to the university, this COVID vaccination camp is being organized ‘Under the Mission Mode’. This vaccination camp has been named as ‘COVID Vaccination Amrit Mahotsav’.

Moreover, this camp is being organized by Dr. MA Ansari, Health Center of the university. In the statement issued by the university, it has been said that this camp is being inaugurated by JMI Vice Chancellor Professor Najma Akhtar.

However, in association with Dr. Arif Mustakim, Cardiologist, Max Health Care a Microbiology Laboratory, Free Cardiology OPD, and a Free Orthopedics OPD at Ansari Health Center will also be inaugurated.

India reports 20,409 new COVID-19 cases, 47 deaths

July 29, 2022, 12:46 pm

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 20,409 new COVID-19 cases on Friday whereas 20,557 cases were registered on Thursday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 22,697 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,33,09,484 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 47 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,26,258 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,43,988. Although on July 28, there were 1,46,323 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.33 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.48 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 5.12 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.82 per cent.

The Health Ministry on Friday said that as many as 3,98,761 tests were conducted on Thursday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 87.44 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Tamil Nadu on Thursday reported 1,712 new cases in the previous 24 hours and Delhi reported 1128. However, Maharashtra reported 2,203 new cases of COVID-19.However three monkeypox cases have also been reported in Kerala and one case in Delhi was reported on Sunday.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 2,03,60,46,307 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,88,69,424 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 38,63,960 COVID-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on July 17 as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated all Indians on crossing the special figure of 200 crore vaccine doses. Taking to Twitter, PM Modi said, “India creates history again! Congrats to all Indians on crossing the special figure of 200 crore vaccine doses. Proud of those who contributed to making India’s vaccination drive unparalleled in scale and speed. This has strengthened the global fight against COVID-19.”

Earlier on July 13, the government of India has taken an important decision where people between the age of 18-59 in the country can get a booster dose or third dose of the COVID vaccine at government immunization centers for free. As a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the booster dose will be free for 75 days, starting from July 15.

However, from July 15, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

India reports 20,557 new COVID-19 cases, 44 deaths

July 28, 2022, 12:39 pm

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 20,557 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday whereas 18,313 cases were registered on Wednesday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 19,216 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,32,86,787 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 44 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,26,211 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,46,323. Although on July 27, there were 1,45,026 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.33 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.47 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 5.18 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.71 per cent.

The Health Ministry on Thursday said that as many as 3,96,783 tests were conducted on Wednesday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 87.40 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital has reported 1066 in the last 24 hours on Wednesday. However three monkeypox cases have also been reported in Kerala and one case in Delhi was reported on Sunday.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 2,03,21,82,347 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,87,53,472 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 42,20,625 COVID-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on July 17 as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

However, from July 15, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

India logs 18,313 new COVID-19 cases, 57 deaths

July 27, 2022, 12:06 pm

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 18,313 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday whereas 14,830 cases were registered on Tuesday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 20,742 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,32,67,571 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 57 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,26,167 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,45,026. Although on July 26, there were 1,47,512 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.33 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.47 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 4.31 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.57 per cent.

The Health Ministry on Wednesday said that as many as 4,25,337 tests were conducted on Tuesday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 87.36 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Tamil Nadu on Tuesday reported 1,846 new cases in the previous 24 hours and Delhi reported 781. However, Maharashtra reported 2,135 new cases of COVID-19.However three monkeypox cases have also been reported in Kerala and one case in Delhi was reported on Sunday.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 202,79,61,722 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,86,74,262 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 27,37,235 COVID-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on July 17 as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

However, from July 15, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

India reports 14,830 new COVID-19 cases, 36 deaths

July 26, 2022, 12:11 pm

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 14,830 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday whereas 16,866 cases were registered on Monday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 18,159 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,32,46,829 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 36 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,26,110 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,47,512. Although on July 25, there were 1,50,877 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.34 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.47 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 3.48 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.53 per cent.

The Health Ministry on Tuesday said that as many as 4,26,102 tests were conducted on Monday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 87.31 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital has reported 463 in the last 24 hours on Monday. However three monkeypox cases have also been reported in Kerala and one case in Delhi was reported on Sunday.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 202,50,57,717 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,85,97,478 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 30,42,479 COVID-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on July 17 as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

However, from July 15, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

India logs 16,866 new COVID-19 cases, 41 deaths

July 25, 2022, 1:29 pm

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 16,866 new COVID-19 cases on Monday whereas 20,279 cases were registered on Sunday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 18,148 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,32,28,670 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 41 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,26,074 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,50,877. Although on July 24, there were 1,52,200 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.34 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.46 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 7.03 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.49 per cent.

The Health Ministry on Monday said that as many as 2,39,751 tests were conducted on Sunday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 87.27 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Tamil Nadu on Sunday reported 2,000 new cases in the previous 24 hours and Delhi reported 729. However, Maharashtra reported 2,015 new cases of COVID-19. However three monkeypox cases have also been reported in Kerala and one case in Delhi was reported on Sunday.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 202,17,66,615 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,85,28,615 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 16,82,390 COVID-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on July 17 as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

However, from July 15, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

India logs 21,411 new COVID-19 cases, 67 deaths

July 23, 2022, 12:17 pm

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 21,411 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday whereas 21,880 cases were registered on Friday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 21,726 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,31,92,379 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 67 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,25,997 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,50,100. Although on July 22, there were 1,49,482 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.34 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.46 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 4.46 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.46 per cent.

The Health Ministry on Saturday said that as many as 4,80,202 tests were conducted on Thursday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 87.21 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Tamil Nadu on Friday reported 2,033 new cases in the previous 24 hours and Delhi reported 712. However, Maharashtra reported 2,515 new cases of COVID-19. However three monkeypox cases have also been reported in Kerala.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 201,68,14,771 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,84,35,980 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 34,93,209 COVID-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on Sunday as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

However, from Friday, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

India reports 21,880 new COVID-19 cases, 60 deaths

July 22, 2022, 1:01 pm

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 21,880 new COVID-19 cases on Friday whereas 21,566 cases were registered on Thursday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 21,219 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,31,71,653 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 60 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,25,930 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,49,482. Although on July 21, there were 1,48,881 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.34 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.46 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 4.42 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.51 per cent.

The Health Ministry on Friday said that as many as 4,95,359 tests were conducted on Thursday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 87.16 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Tamil Nadu on Wednesday reported 2,093 new cases in the previous 24 hours and India reported 649. However, Maharashtra reported 2,289 new cases of COVID-19. However two monkeypox cases have also been reported in Kerala.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 201.30 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,83,43,085 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 37,06,997 COVID-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on Sunday as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

However, from Friday, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

India logs 21,566 new COVID-19 cases, 45 deaths

July 21, 2022, 12:47 pm

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 21,566 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday whereas 20,557 cases were registered on Wednesday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 18,294 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,31,50,434 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 45 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,25,870 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,48,881. Although on July 20, there were 1,43,654 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.34 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.46 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 4.25 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.51 per cent.

The health ministry on Thursday said that as many as 5,07,360 tests were conducted on Wednesday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 87.11 crores.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Tamil Nadu on Wednesday reported 2,116 new cases in the previous 24 hours. However, Maharashtra reported 2,325 new cases of COVID-19. However two monkeypox cases have also been reported in Kerala.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 200.91,91,969 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,82,20,319 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 29,12,855 COVID-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on Sunday as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

However, from Friday, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

India reports 20,557 new COVID-19 cases, 40 deaths

July 20, 2022, 11:41 am

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 20,557 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday whereas 15,528 cases were registered on Tuesday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 18,517 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,31,32,140 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 40 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,25,825 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,45,654. Although on July 19, there were 1,43,654 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.33 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.47 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 4.13 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.64 per cent.

The health ministry on Wednesday said that as many as 4,98,034 tests were conducted on Tuesday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 87.06 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Delhi reported 585 cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday, and Tamil Nadu reported 2,142 new cases in the previous 24 hours. However, Maharashtra reported 2,279 new cases of COVID-19. However two monkeypox cases have also been reported in Kerala.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 200.61 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,81,47,897 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 26,04,797 COVID-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on Sunday as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

However, from Friday, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

Earlier on Wednesday, the government of India has taken an important decision where people between the age of 18-59 in the country can get a booster dose or third dose of the COVID vaccine at government immunization centers for free. As a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the booster dose will be free for 75 days, starting from July 15.

India reports 16,935 new COVID-19 cases, 51 deaths

July 18, 2022, 11:25 am

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 16,935 new COVID-19 cases on Monday whereas 20,528 cases were registered on Sunday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 16,069 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,30,97,510 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 51 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,25,760 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,44,264. Although on July 17, there were 1,43,449 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.33 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.47 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 6.48 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.58 per cent.

The health ministry on Monday said that as many as 2,61,470 tests were conducted on Sunday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 86.96 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Delhi reported 498 cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, and Tamil Nadu reported 2,316 new cases in the previous 24 hours. However, Maharashtra reported 2,186 new cases of COVID-19, whereas Mumbai saw 276 new COVID-19 cases.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 2,00,04,61,095 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,79,98,722 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 4,46,671 Covid-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

A milestone was achieved on Sunday as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

However, from Friday, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

India crosses 2 billion COVID-19 vaccination in 18 months after first shot

July 17, 2022, 2:40 pm

A milestone was achieved on Sunday as India crossed its 2 billion, i.e. 200 crore vaccination mark. After this, India has become the second country in the world to do so.

After achieving this milestone, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said, “India has scripted history under PM Narendra Modi Ji’s visionary leadership. This extraordinary achievement will be etched in history! 200 Crore Vaccinations.”

A total of 2,00,00,15,631 people have been vaccinated in the country till 12.30 pm on Sunday. These include 1,01,90,73,891 people receiving the first dose, 92,59,26,880 receiving the second dose and 5,50,14,860 receiving the precautionary dose. Regarding Corona Vaccination, at present, vaccination is going on at 14,883 sites, of which 14,166 are government centers, while 717 are private centers.

According to the Ministry of Health, the country has achieved this figure after seven months from the scheduled time. The government had set a target of two billion vaccine doses by the end of 2021.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated all Indians on crossing the special figure of 200 crore vaccine doses. Taking to Twitter, PM Modi said, “India creates history again! Congrats to all Indians on crossing the special figure of 200 crore vaccine doses. Proud of those who contributed to making India’s vaccination drive unparalleled in scale and speed. This has strengthened the global fight against COVID-19.”

Moreover, the country achieved the target of 100 crore vaccinations on 21 October 2021. At the same time, this figure has reached 200 crores after nine months. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

However, from Friday, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started. Under which booster doses are being administered to people between 18 and 59.

India logs 20,528 new COVID cases, 49 deaths

July 17, 2022, 1:52 pm

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 20,528 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday whereas 20,044 cases were registered on Saturday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 17,790 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,30,81,441 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 49 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,25,709 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,43,449. Although on July 16, there were 1,40,760 active cases of COVID-19.

The active cases comprise 0.33 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.47 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 5.23 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.55 per cent.

The health ministry on Sunday said that as many as 3,92,659 tests were conducted on Saturday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 86.94 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Delhi reported 491 cases of COVID-19 on Saturday, and Tamil Nadu reported 2,340 new cases in the previous 24 hours. However, Maharashtra reported 2,389 new cases of COVID-19, whereas Mumbai saw 282 new COVID-19 cases.

Vaccination in India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 1,99,98,89,097 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,79,82,251 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 25,59,840 Covid-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

However, from Friday, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

Earlier on Wednesday, the government of India has taken an important decision where people between the age of 18-59 in the country can get a booster dose or third dose of the COVID vaccine at government immunisation centres for free. As a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the booster dose will be free for 75 days, starting from July 15.

New Sub-Variant of COVID-19 Detected in India

Earlier on July 6, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed new Covid-19 sub-variant BA.2.75 of the Omicron variant had been detected in India. In addition, BA.4 and BA.5 are driving waves in other countries like Europe and America.

“On Covid-19, globally reported cases have increased nearly 30 per cent over the last two weeks. Four out of six WHO sub-regions saw cases increase in the last week,” the news agency PTI quoted WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

India reports 20,038 new COVID cases, 47 deaths

July 15, 2022, 11:36 am

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 20,038 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, an increase of 2997 infections from Thursday. The country registered 20,139 cases on Thursday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 16,994 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,30,45,350 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 47 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,25,604 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,39,073. Although on July 14, there were 1,36,076 active cases of Covid-19.

The active cases comprise 0.32 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.48 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 4.44 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.30 per cent.

The health ministry on Friday said that as many as 4,50,820 tests were conducted on Thursday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 86.86 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Delhi reported 520 cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, and Tamil Nadu reported 2,283 new cases in the previous 24 hours. However, Maharashtra reported 2,575 new cases of COVID-19, whereas Mumbai saw 339 COVID-19 cases.

Vaccination In India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 1,99,47,34,994 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,78,17,085 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 18,92,969 Covid-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

However, from Friday, the program of administering free precaution doses for the next 75 days to adult citizens across the country under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has started.

Taking to Twitter, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya tweeted, “Under the Amrit Mahotsav of Azadi, a 75-day program has started from today to provide free #PrecautionDose to the adult population of the entire country. I urge you to take the precautionary dose when your turn comes. The government is committed to making ‘Swasth Bharat, Surakshit Bharat’ under the leadership of Mr PM @NarendraModi.”

Earlier on Wednesday, the government of India has taken an important decision where people between the age of 18-59 in the country can get a booster dose or third dose of the COVID vaccine at government immunisation centres for free. As a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the booster dose will be free for 75 days, starting from July 15.

New Sub-Variant of COVID-19 Detected in India

India logs 20,139 new COVID-19 cases, 19 per cent higher than yesterday

July 14, 2022, 11:25 am

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare, India reported 20,139 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, 19 per cent higher than yesterday and an increase of 3233 infections from Wednesday. The country registered 16,905 cases on Wednesday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 16,482 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,30,28,356 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 38 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,25,557 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,36,076. Although on July 13, there were 1,32,457 active cases of Covid-19.

The active cases comprise 0.31 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.49 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 5.10 per cent and the weekly positivity rate at 4.37 per cent.

The health ministry on Thursday said that as many as 3,94,774 tests were conducted on Wednesday, taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 86.81 crores.

Meanwhile, the national capital, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, has seen a massive spike in COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Delhi reported 490 cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday. Tamil Nadu reported 2,269 new cases in the previous 24 hours. However, Maharashtra reported 2,575 new cases of COVID-19, whereas Mumbai saw 383 COVID-19 cases.

New Sub-Variant of COVID-19 Detected in India

Vaccination In India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 1,99,27,27,559 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,76,98,593 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 13,44,714 Covid-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

Government to provide free COVID-19 booster doses from July 15

July 13, 2022, 6:24 pm

The government of India has taken an important decision where people between the age of 18-59 in the country can get a booster dose or third dose of the COVID vaccine at government immunization centers for free.

As a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the booster dose will be free for 75 days, starting from July 15. Under this, people will be able to get booster doses by going to government centres just like the two vaccine doses given earlier.

“India is celebrating 75 years of independence. Therefore, on the occasion of Azadi ka Amrit Kaal, it has been decided that from 15th July 2022 till the next 75 days, citizens above 18 years of age will be given booster doses free of cost,” Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur told the media.

According to the Health Department’s data, the corona infection rate has increased. Therefore, the government has appealed to the people to get a booster dose to end corona.

Most of India’s population had taken their second dose about nine months ago. Studies conducted at the ICMR and other international research institutes have shown that antibody levels begin to drop about six months after two initial doses of the vaccine, and immunity builds up after a booster dose.

Earlier, the Union Health Ministry reduced the interval between the second and booster doses of the Covid vaccine from nine months to six months.

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 1,99,12,79,010 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,76,28,293 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours, 11,15,068 COVID vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

India logs 16,906 news Covid-19 cases, 45 deaths

July 13, 2022, 11:30 am

According to the Union Health Ministry of India, India reported 16,906 new Covid-19 cases on Wednesday, a increase of 3291 infections from Tuesday. The country reported 13,615 cases on Tuesday. The Union Health Ministry of India has confirmed 15,447 recoveries pushing the total recoveries to 4,30,11,874 crore.

In the last 24 hours, India also reported 45 deaths taking the country’s toll to 5,25,519 lakh. At the same time, the active caseload stood at 1,32,457. Although on July 12, there were 1,31,043 active cases of Covid-19.

The active cases comprise 0.30 per cent of the total infections. Furthermore, the current recovery rate in the country stands at 98.49 per cent, the daily positivity rate at 3.68 per cent and the weekly positivity rate stands at 4.26 per cent.

The health ministry on Wednesday said that as many as 4,59,302 tests were conducted on Monday taking the total cumulative tests undertaken so far in the country to 86.77 crore.

Meanwhile, the national capital, West Bengal and Maharashtra has seen a massive spike in Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Delhi reported 400 cases of Covid-19 on Tuesday. West Bengal reported 420 new cases in the last 24 hours. However, Maharashtra reported 2,435 new cases of Covid-19.

New Sub-Variant of Covid-19 Detected in India

Earlier on July 6, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed new Covid-19 sub-variant BA.2.75 of the Omicron variant, which has been detected in India. In addition, BA.4 and BA.5 are driving waves in other countries like Europe and America.

“On Covid-19, globally reported cases have increased nearly 30 per cent over the last two weeks. Four out of six of the WHO sub-regions saw cases increase in the last week,” the news agency PTI qouted, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Vaccination In India

Moreover, as of now, India has administered 1,99,12,79,010 crore vaccine doses, and for the age group 12-14 years, over 3,76,28,293 crore 1st dose vaccines have been administered. However, in the last 24 hours 11,15,068 Covid-19 vaccines were administrated. Notably, the nationwide vaccination drive was started on January 16, 2021.

DOCTORS SHARE COVID-19 VACCINE EXPERIENCE

January 19, 2021, 4:00 am

The pan-India massive vaccination drive against Covid-19 began from January 16. Hospitals had prepared for it beforehand, they followed guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health for the vaccination process, trained the team and did dry runs, some hospitals formed Adverse Effects committee, set up Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFI) room or made special arrangements to deal with side effects. For a smooth process, each hospital has a pre-vaccination waiting area, vaccination room and observation area. Taking a leap of faith, many healthcare workers including doctors and medical staff from hospitals across the country came forward to get the vaccination dose. They are urging that if given a chance, people should get the vaccine shot. Scientists have worked hard for the vaccine and doctors are leading by example so people should not hesitate to go for the vaccination.

Talking about the vaccination drive, Dr Shreevidya Venkatraman, senior consultant-Internal Medicine, MGM Healthcare, Chennai said, “Covid-19 is here to stay. Covid cases are less but as seen in Europe, the peak is expected in March/April. Vaccination against Covid-19 is our best option. Safety and efficacy of the Covid vaccines have been proven. Mild malaise, fever, and local pain may be expected. So far we have not seen any major hypersensitivity reactions after the administration of the Covid vaccines.” Health professionals including doctors, who were vaccinated at Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, Delhi, said that they are upbeat as the final assault on coronavirus has begun and this will create a strong safeguard against the infectious disease. Dr Pankaj Dhamija, Centre head, Wockhardt Hospital, Mira Road, Mumbai said, “The news of vaccination has certainly given hopes to people. We are proud to be a part of this vaccination drive and committed to working round-the-clock for the betterment of the patients. Coronavirus vaccination will protect people by creating an antibody (immune system) response without getting sick by the virus.”

Doctors and healthcare workers share their first-hand experience with us about receiving the first shot of Covid-19 vaccine:

It is a moment of victory for the war against Coronavirus. I was excited and eagerly waiting for these vaccines to be made available. When this initiation of vaccination news arrived I was upbeat and after going through all the information I readied myself to get vaccinated. The process was well organised and meticulous. I took the first dose of Covisheild vaccine at 10.30 am on Saturday at Indian Spinal Injuries Centre. I was made comfortable and all the information was given. I am doing fine and feeling confident.

— Dr Gururaj Sangothimath, spine surgeon, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, Vasant Kunj, Delhi

There was certainly an apprehension about taking the vaccine initially in terms of efficacy and reaction. There were misconceptions and after discussions with doctors, everyone came forward to take the vaccine jab. We were made to wait for 30 minutes post the vaccination for any adverse effects after which I experienced mild nausea and gastritis. I was completely fine after an hour of vaccination.

— Dr Prakash K.N., Chief of Medical Services, Columbia Asia Hospital Hebbal, Bengaluru

It feels good to be the first person to be vaccinated in the vaccination site at BLK Super Speciality Hospital. It was just like any other shot that one would have taken. We were really looking forward to this and the process was pretty smooth.

— Dr Sandeep Nayar, Senior Director, Centre for Chest and Respiratory Disease, BLK Super Speciality Hospital, Pusa Road, Delhi

I am glad that I was the first one to get the vaccination at Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital. I did not feel any sign of anxiety or reaction. Everyone should get the vaccine shot and even after the vaccination, people must follow the safety guidelines issued by the government.

— Ashutosh Chaturvedi, Emergency Nursing Head, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, Delhi

I was the first one to get vaccinated at Aakash Healthcare. I was vaccinated at 11:10 am on Saturday and was told to sit for 30 minutes to check if I have got any adverse effects of the vaccine. The government officials assigned were constantly checking with me for any side effects. I had no side effects in my body and I am fine since I got the vaccine shot. I started working after getting vaccination and not experienced any problem. I am having no interruptions due to the vaccine in walking, eating, or working. This is a very appreciable step that the government has taken for healthcare workers.

— Anita Ryder, Support Services Department, Aakash Healthcare Super Specialty Hospital, Dwarka, Delhi

COVID DRY RUN IN HARYANA TO TAKE PLACE ON 7 JANUARY

January 6, 2021, 2:44 am

To ensure successful implementation of the Covid-19 vaccine rollout in Haryana, a ‘dry run’ will be conducted on 7 January 2021 across the state in all districts, on six sites, including three urban and three rural sites, from 11 am to 1 pm.

Haryana Chief Secretary Vijai Vardhan was presiding over the meeting of the State Steering Committee and the State Task Force for the Covid-19 vaccine held with all the Deputy Commissioners through video conferencing here on Tuesday.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary gave directions regarding the new strain of the Covid-19 virus found in people coming from Britain and said that tracing and testing of such people should be done on priority. Also, contact tracing of these people should be done strictly, he added.

In the meeting, Additional Chief Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department, Rajeev Arora said that as per the scheme of Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, ‘Dry Run’ was conducted on 2 January in Panchkula district. Taking this forward, now on 7 January a ‘dry run’ will be conducted across the state, which aims to practice the entire process of Covid-19 vaccine rollout from beginning to end so that all the challenges in its implementation can be identified.

According to the Central government guidelines, Covid-19 vaccination will start this year with healthcare workers. Health workers will be vaccinated under category-1. Under category-2, frontline workers like municipality and sanitation workers, state and central police forces, civil defence and armed forces and revenue officers will be vaccinated, while people over 50 years of age will be vaccinated under category-3, and those below the age of 50 years who are ill will be vaccinated under category-4.

INDIA IS ALL SET TO ROLL OUT COVID VACCINE BY 13 JANUARY

January 6, 2021, 2:10 am

Days after the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) gave approval to two Covid-19 vaccines, the Union Health Ministry on Tuesday said that it is prepared to roll out the coronavirus vaccine by 13 January, paving way for mass vaccination drive in the country.

“We are prepared to roll out Covid-19 vaccines within 10 days of granting emergency use authorisation date, based on dry run feedback,” said Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan at a press conference. Approval to two vaccines was given on 3 January.

The Drug Controller General of India had, on Sunday, announced approvals to two vaccine—Oxford-AstraZeneca’s Covishield, manufactured by Serum Institute of India, and Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin—for restricted emergency use against Covid-19 infection.

The announcement has come as a major relief for India which has the second highest number of infections in the world, after the US.

Talking about the vaccination process, the Health Secretary said that healthcare workers and frontline workers would not need to register themselves as a beneficiary as their data has been stored in a bulk database. “Healthcare workers and frontline workers would not need to register themselves as a beneficiary as their data in bulk database that has been populated on the Co-WIN vaccine delivery management system in a bulk manner,” said Rajesh Bhushan.

He further said, “When we would come to the population priority group, the provision of registration or editing of data would be used. The system electronically allows session allocation… The process of session allocation would be digital. Whether the beneficiaries have been vaccinated, this will be captured digitally.”

The Health Secretary also emphasised that India’s active Covid-19 cases have now fallen below the 2.5-lakh mark. “The active cases in the country are less than 2.5 lakhs and continue to decline. The positivity rate stood at 1.97 per cent,” he added.

The Health Secretary further said that 44 per cent of active cases are in hospital with moderate or severe symptoms while 56 per cent of cases are very mild or asymptomatic and are in home isolation.

He also revealed how the approved vaccines will travel from manufacturers to the beneficiaries. Addressing a press conference, the health secretary said that the manufacturers will send the vaccine to the Government Medical Store Department depots at Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Karnal in Haryana by air. The vaccine will then travel to 37 state vaccine stores from where it will go to district vaccine stores which will then supply primary health care centres, designated as Covid-19 immunisation centres.

Rajesh Bhushan said that India currently has 29,000 cold chain points where the approved vaccines Covishield and Covaxin can be stored safely.

The vaccine will be first offered to one crore healthcare workers, along with two crore frontline and essential workers and 27 crore elderly, mostly above the age of 50 years with co-morbidities.

On Saturday, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had announced that one crore healthcare workers, along with two crore frontline will get the vaccine for free.

Centre must provide free Covid vaccine to all without discrimination: Balbir Sidhu

January 4, 2021, 2:36 am

Health and family welfare minister of Punjab, Balbir Singh Sidhu on Sunday said that Central Government should provide free of cost Corona vaccine to the state in a stipulated time.

Talking to media persons he said that stringent measures were taken from time to time with view to control the pandemic and now, the Centre cannot backtrack from its duty to supply the Corona vaccine. Sidhu said that about 5364 COVID related unfortunate deaths till date had happened in the state which is about 178 deaths per million, in comparison to Delhi where total 10,577 COVID-19 related deaths took place and their deaths per million rate is quite high at 528. We are in a way better position than other states, he added, saying that Punjab has a recovery rate of 95 % and active cases are declining day-by-day.

Giving details on vaccination preparedness in the state, he said that Punjab is fully prepared for the vaccination drive and state has a capacity of vaccinating 4 lakh persons a day. Elaborating more on this he said that state has established robust storage capacity of 1 crore vaccines in state’s own Cold Chain centres. He stated that Punjab has also achieved more than 95% of routine vaccination of children which is highest in the Country.

Speaking on the occasion, Principal Secretary Health Hussan Lal said that vaccine will be given to about 70 lakh people in the state in phased manner, which includes 1.6 lakh health workers, other frontline workers, people aged above 50 and people with co-morbidities aged below 50. The criteria of the age will be counted as on 1 January, 2021. In the first phase all the 1.6 lakh health care workers will be vaccinated on top priority.

A DECISIVE TURNING POINT: PM MODI ON VACCINE APPROVAL

January 4, 2021, 2:00 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded scientists of the country after the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) gave approval to Serum Institute of India’s ‘Covishield’ vaccine and Bharat Biotech’s ‘Covaxin’ for emergency use, paving the way for its roll-out and administration to millions.

“A decisive turning point to strengthen a spirited fight! DCGI granting approval to vaccines of @SerumInstIndia and @BharatBiotech accelerates the road to a healthier and COVID-free nation. Congratulations India. Congratulations to our hardworking scientists and innovators,” the Prime Minister said in a series of tweets.

He further said it would make every Indian proud that the two vaccines that have been given emergency use approval are made in India. “This shows the eagerness of our scientific community to fulfil the dream of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, at the root of which is care and compassion. We reiterate our gratitude to doctors, medical staff, scientists, police personnel, sanitation workers and all Corona warriors for the outstanding work done, that too in adverse circumstances. We will remain eternally grateful to them for saving many lives.”

Prime Minister’s remarks came after Drugs Controller General of India V.G. Somani announced that the CDSCO has decided to accept the recommendations of the Subject Expert Committee and accordingly, vaccine of Serum and Bharat Biotech are being approved for restricted use in emergency situation after adequate examination.

This is a major relief for India which has the second highest number of infections in the world after the US. The Central government plans to vaccinate nearly 30 crore people in the first phase of drive in the next six to eight months.

Meanwhile, Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan criticised Congress and other Opposition leaders over their comments on Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin, which was cleared for emergency use in the country along with the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.

Congress leaders Shashi Tharoor and Jairam Ramesh, and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav had pointed out that Covaxin lacked efficacy data to show the vaccine’s effectiveness before it was approved for emergency use.

“Disgraceful for anyone to politicise such a critical issue. Sh @ShashiTharoor, Sh @yadavakhilesh & Sh @Jairam_Ramesh don’t try to discredit well laid out science-backed protocols followed for approving #COVID19 vaccines. Wake up & realise you are only discrediting yourselves,” Dr Harsh Vardhan tweeted.

The Health Minister said Covaxin is “likely to have similar protective efficacy reported for others”, despite the lack of efficacy data from phase 3 trials.

“Vaccines approved globally based on gene encoding spike proteins have protective efficacy of over 90%. However, Covaxin based on whole inactivated virus has other antigenic epitopes in addition to spike protein. So, it’s likely to have similar protective efficacy reported for others,” the minister said.

“Covaxin is more likely to work against newer variants like N501Y Variant (UK variant) & any other that may arise due to antigenic drift as it contains immunogens (epitopes) from other genes in addition to those from Spike protein. Inactivated virus from NIV also had D614G mutation,” Harsh Vardhan said.

“For those spreading rumours let it be known that EUA for Covaxin is differently conditional—in clinical trial mode EUA for Covaxin is different from Covishield because its use will be in clinical trial mode. All Covaxin recipients to be tracked, monitored as if they’re in trial,” the minister tweeted, referring to emergency use authorisation.

Earlier in the day, Congress leaders had said the government must explain why mandatory protocols and verification of data from phase 3 trials have been dispensed with while granting permission for emergency use of Covaxin.

«Covaxin has not yet had Phase 3 trials. Approval was premature and could be dangerous. @drharshvardhan should please clarify. Its use should be avoided till full trials are over. India can start with the AstraZeneca vaccine in the meantime,» Tharoor tweeted.

Jairam Ramesh too raised concerns and asked the Health Minister to clarify why internationally-accepted protocols on phase 3 trials are being modified. «Bharat Biotech is a first-rate enterprise, but it is puzzling that internationally-accepted protocols relating to phase 3 trials are being modified for Covaxin. Health Minister Harsh Vardhan should clarify,» the senior Congress leader said on Twitter.

Akhilesh Yadav, however, politicised the issue the most when he called it a “BJP vaccine”. He said he would not take the Covid-19 vaccine “at this moment”. “That too given by Bharatiya Janata Party. How can I trust the BJP’s vaccine, no chance? When our government is formed, everyone will get a free vaccine. We cannot take the BJP vaccine. The inoculation programme under the BJP-led regime cannot be trusted,” the former UP CM said.

INDIA’S WAIT OVER, DRUG REGULATOR CALLS COVID-19 VACCINES 110% SAFE

January 4, 2021, 1:56 am

India’s central drug authority, Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), on Sunday announced the formal approval for the Covid-19 vaccines of Oxford-AstraZeneca, manufactured by the Serum Institute, and Bharat Biotech, saying they would be administered in two dosages each. Drugs Controller General of India V.G. Somani said that the two firms submitted data on their trial runs of the Covid vaccines and both have been granted permission for “restricted use” in emergency situations.

The approval by the DCGI was given on the basis of recommendations submitted by an expert committee of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

Announcing approval to Serum Institute’s ‘Covishield’ vaccine, Somani said that the vaccine trial was conducted on 23,745 participants and the overall efficacy of the vaccine was found to be more than 70 per cent. “The Indian data was also found to be comparable with overseas clinical studies,” the DCGI said.

“Bharat Biotech’s coronavirus vaccine ‘Covaxin’ is safe and gives a robust immune response,” the DCGI said adding that Covaxin, too, has been approved for restricted use in emergency situations.

Somani also quelled rumours surrounding the Covid-19 vaccines regarding impotency, rubbishing such speculations as “complete nonsense”.

“We will never approve anything if there is even the slightest safety concern. Vaccines are 110 per cent safe. Some side effects like mild fever, pain and allergy are common for every vaccine. It (rumours of impotency) is complete nonsense,” he said.

Earlier on Saturday, Samajwadi Party chief and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Yadav had said, “Covid-19 vaccine might contain something, which can cause harm. Tomorrow, people will say the vaccine was given to kill or decrease the population. You can even become impotent, anything can happen.”

On 31 December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had urged people to be careful regarding rumours about vaccines and as responsible citizens refrain from forwarding messages on social media without checking.

“The number of new cases of Covid-19 is decreasing in the country now. We are preparing to run the world’s largest vaccination programme in the next year. In our country, rumours spread quickly. Different people for their personal gains or due to irresponsible behaviour spread various rumours. Maybe rumours will be spread when vaccination begins, some have already begun,” Prime Minister Modi had said.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) director Dr Randeep Singh Guleria lauded the work done by Indian laboratories in making indigenous vaccines. “The research has been done here and it’s truly from the scratch and it is Indian vaccine. It’s a great moment, especially because unlike past where we had to rely on importing various products like PPE or N95; now we have vaccines which are being manufactured in India itself. We do not have to rely on vaccines coming from outside. They are cost-effective and easy to administer between 2 to 8 degrees Centigrade,” he said.

He also said that a vaccine has to go through various stages of study to make sure that it is safe for use. “It is important to understand that when we look at any vaccine, safety is paramount and therefore a vaccine goes through various stages of studying to make sure that it is safe,” Dr Guleria stated in an interview with ANI.

On some concerns being raised by the Opposition, the AIIMs director said, “All the data are being critically looked at by the regulatory authorities and experts and then only a vaccine is given approval. At multiple levels, the safety is ensured and I do not think we should be concerned.”

There are questions being raised on Covaxin of Bharat Biotech which is yet to go for Phase III trials. Dr Guleria responded, “Even as far as Bharat Biotech vaccine is a concern, it is on a traditional platform which has been used for other vaccines also. It is shown to be safe and they have robust data from Phase I and Phase II trials to show that it’s a safe vaccine.”