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Is Russia Battling a Mystery Virus Causing Covid-Like Symptoms and Blood Coughing?

April 2, 2025, 3:08 pm

A mysterious illness, described as a “Covid-like” virus, has reportedly surfaced in Russia, leaving patients with severe fever and coughing up blood. Initial reports appeared on the Telegram group ‘SHOT,’ which includes members of Russian federal agencies, and were later picked up by local media.

As per reports, the disease starts with tiredness and muscle pain, similar to Covid-19. But within five days, the symptoms become severe, including high fever (up to 39°C or 102.2°F) and a cough that lasts for a long time, sometimes with blood. Patients have reportedly tested negative for Covid and flu, and doctors have labeled cases as “acute upper respiratory tract infections of unspecified origin.”

A Telegram post on March 29, which was more than 430,000 times viewed, brought focus to the issue of the outbreak. In one account, a woman named Alexandra spoke of contracting the virus. The Daily Mail translated the following part of the post:

A mysterious virus has emerged in Russia. As SHOT has found out, infected patients have had weeks of high fever and coughing up blood, but they test negative for Covid and flu.

All of them, whether sick or healthy, have similar symptoms: all this begins with simple aching and weakness, but within a few days, the virus ‘downtools’ and there is no escape from bed. Together with the high temperature not more than 39 degrees, Russians report having an intense cough up to tears.”

Alexandra said even after taking antibiotics, her condition continued, and by the fifth day, she was coughing up blood. The post also theorized that she might have had mycoplasma pneumoniae, an infection caused by bacteria that affects the lungs leading to pneumonia as well as symptoms of flu.

Public Responses

Mainstream Russian media news channels, Lenta.ru, and Newizv.ru reported the supposed outbreak but mentioned there was no confirmation from state healthcare authorities.

Most users spoke about their experiences on Telegram as a reply to a message on Moscow Live. One said:

“It’s hell, already I have rib pains from coughing, you can’t even eat, even meds sometimes give me nausea.”

Another said, “Cough lasted more than a month, the fever continued for nearly three weeks. I recovered from Covid much better.”

While global experts have not been able to confirm these allegations, others have warned that the political climate in Russia could impact how the information is reported. Sharon Sanders, an independent disease monitor, warned on FluTrackers:

“Just a reminder… the Russia situation is very political. And disease propaganda has been used in the past – globally.”

“I have no idea if this is a big deal or a typical disease outbreak.

Russian Government Response

Rospotrebnadzor, Russia’s public health service, has dismissed a new virus. In a public statement, the agency declared:

“Now, the situation of epidemics in the Russian Federation among a group of respiratory diseases, such as SARS, flu, Covid-19 and community-acquired pneumonia, is steady and completely controlled. There is a reduction in the incidence rate. The epidemiological situation among the group of infections in Moscow is also stable.”

Further, Rospotrebnadzor added that “constant epidemiological surveillance and genomic monitoring in Russia” hadn’t detected any new viruses or notable mutations.

Gennady Onishchenko, Russian Academy of Sciences member, minimized the worries in a TASS statement:

“Most probably, there is no virus there, let’s not make a big issue out of it now, but let’s examine the data of at least one study. The most crucial thing is where this virus is, where these diseases were recorded.

Although there have been reports of an unknown disease spreading in Russia, causing panic, official health agencies are adamant that there is no new virus. With mixed messages coming from local sources, government officials, and independent sources, the nature of the outbreak is still unclear.

Wuhan Lab Discovers Covid-like Bat Virus HKU5-CoV-2: Can It Infect Humans?

February 22, 2025, 2:15 pm

Scientists at China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology have identified a new coronavirus in bats, HKU5-CoV-2, which uses the same entry pathway as the Covid-19 virus. But the virus was not found in humans and only in the laboratory. Stock prices of certain vaccine firms spiked after the announcement.

HKU5-CoV-2 is not as easily infective to human cells as SARS-CoV-2, according to a study in the journal Cell and reported by Reuters. The scientists cautioned that “the risk of emergence in human populations should not be exaggerated.”

HKU5-CoV-2 has features of both Covid-19 and the MERS virus, as they all belong to the HKU5 coronavirus family. Similar to SARS-CoV-2, HKU5-CoV-2 has a furin cleavage site that facilitates cell entry via the ACE2 receptor on human cell surfaces. In experiments, the virus was able to infect human cells with high levels of ACE2 and human intestine and airway models.

Although the virus was discovered in bats, it is not clear if it can transmit from animal to human. Not all coronaviruses infect humans because the family comprises viruses that cause common colds and other more deadly diseases such as SARS and Covid-19.

University of Minnesota infectious disease expert Michael Osterholm said the response to the finding of HKU5-CoV-2 was overdone.

Symptoms of HKU5 virus are identical to those for MERS and include fever, cough, weakness, congestion, sneezing, chills, loss of appetite, breathlessness, diarrhea, and vomiting.

In order to lower the risk, the Centre for Disease Control recommends keeping up with vaccinations, employing preventive methods such as handwashing, mask use, and testing for other comorbidities.

HMPV in China: Symptoms and Facts About China’s Latest Virus

January 3, 2025, 1:30 pm

What is HMPV, the Mysterious Virus that China is Struggling With?

In recent years, new viruses have emerged with alarming frequency, sparking global health concerns. While the world has been preoccupied with high-profile viruses like COVID-19 and the Ebola outbreak, there is another virus that has been making headlines in China—Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). Though not as widely recognized as other viral infections, HMPV has been a source of increasing concern, especially in light of its rising cases in various regions, including China.

So, what exactly is HMPV? How does it affect human health, and why is it creating such a stir? In this comprehensive overview, we will explore what HMPV is, its symptoms, how it spreads, why it’s becoming a significant concern, and the efforts being made to control it.

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, which is the same family that includes viruses such as the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza viruses. HMPV was first identified in 2001 and is considered a relatively new pathogen. It primarily affects the respiratory system, causing infections ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory illness.

HMPV is typically found in humans and can infect individuals of all ages. However, it is most dangerous to vulnerable populations, such as young children, elderly adults, and those with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions. The virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it highly contagious, particularly in crowded areas such as households, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Symptoms of HMPV

The symptoms of HMPV are similar to those of other respiratory infections, making it challenging to distinguish from common colds, influenza, or even COVID-19 without a proper diagnostic test. Common symptoms of an HMPV infection include:

Fever: A high fever is a common symptom, especially in the early stages of infection. The fever may last for several days and can be accompanied by chills and fatigue.
Cough: A persistent cough is another hallmark symptom of HMPV. This cough may be dry or productive, and it may worsen over time.
Runny or Stuffy Nose: Much like the common cold, HMPV often causes nasal congestion and a runny nose.
Shortness of Breath: Severe cases of HMPV infection can lead to difficulty breathing, especially in infants, older adults, or those with pre-existing lung conditions.
Wheezing: Wheezing, or a whistling sound when breathing, is common in children and those with compromised lung function.
Sore Throat: A sore throat is another common symptom, similar to other respiratory infections.
Fatigue and Muscle Aches: General malaise, fatigue, and body aches are also often experienced, similar to symptoms of the flu.

In most cases, HMPV causes mild to moderate respiratory illness, but in some individuals—particularly the very young, elderly, or immunocompromised—it can lead to more serious complications, including pneumonia, bronchiolitis, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Hospitalization may be required in severe cases, and in rare instances, the virus can be fatal.

How HMPV Spreads

HMPV spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. The droplets can land on surfaces, and individuals who touch these contaminated surfaces and then touch their face (eyes, nose, or mouth) are at risk of infection. The virus can also be transmitted through close contact with an infected person, such as shaking hands or hugging.

The incubation period for HMPV is typically between 3 and 6 days, and infected individuals can spread the virus even before symptoms appear. This asymptomatic period is one of the reasons why the virus is so difficult to control, as individuals may unknowingly spread it to others.

Why Is HMPV Gaining Attention in China?

In recent months, China has experienced an uptick in HMPV infections, prompting health authorities to closely monitor the virus’s spread. Several factors have contributed to the increasing concern over HMPV in China:

Increasing Case Numbers: Health officials have reported a significant rise in the number of HMPV cases across various regions of China. This increase has drawn attention due to the virus’s potential to cause severe respiratory illness, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Healthcare Strain: China’s healthcare system has been under intense pressure in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals, already dealing with an overwhelming number of COVID-19 cases, have been facing added strain due to the surge in HMPV cases. The virus’s ability to cause pneumonia and other severe respiratory issues can put a significant burden on hospitals, making it harder for healthcare providers to manage both HMPV and COVID-19 patients.
Complications in Diagnosis: HMPV shares many symptoms with other respiratory infections, making it difficult to diagnose without proper testing. This has led to misdiagnoses or delayed diagnoses, further complicating efforts to control its spread. In some cases, individuals infected with both HMPV and COVID-19 have been identified, leading to more complicated clinical presentations.
Widespread Vulnerability: As mentioned earlier, HMPV is particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups, including young children and the elderly. In a densely populated country like China, where air pollution, respiratory conditions, and crowded living conditions are prevalent, these groups are at higher risk of severe complications from HMPV infection.
Seasonal Variability: Similar to other respiratory viruses like RSV and influenza, HMPV tends to spread more easily in colder months. China is currently experiencing a colder-than-usual winter, which could be facilitating the virus’s transmission, especially in areas with poor ventilation or high population density.

Is HMPV a New Threat?

Although HMPV has been known to science since 2001, it is considered an emerging virus in terms of its threat level. While it has caused outbreaks in the past, it has not garnered the same level of attention as viruses like the flu, RSV, or COVID-19. However, recent studies indicate that HMPV may be more common than previously thought. It may also be more dangerous than once believed, particularly as new strains of the virus evolve.

The ongoing research into HMPV aims to better understand its genetics, its behavior in different populations, and how it evolves over time. Understanding these factors is crucial for public health officials to prepare for future outbreaks and develop effective treatments or vaccines.

Prevention and Treatment of HMPV

At present, there is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV, and management primarily involves supportive care. In severe cases, individuals may need hospitalization, oxygen therapy, or mechanical ventilation to help with breathing difficulties. Antiviral medications and corticosteroids may be prescribed in some cases to alleviate symptoms and reduce inflammation in the respiratory system.

The most effective ways to prevent HMPV infection are similar to those used to prevent other respiratory infections:

Good Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing with soap and water is essential to reduce the spread of HMPV. People should avoid touching their face and cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing.
Avoid Close Contact: Individuals who are sick should avoid close contact with others to prevent spreading the virus. Those who are vulnerable, such as the elderly and young children, should take extra precautions to avoid exposure.
Disinfection of Surfaces: Regularly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and phones, can help reduce the likelihood of surface transmission.
Vaccination Development: There is currently no vaccine for HMPV, but researchers are working on developing one. Vaccines for similar viruses like RSV and influenza have shown promise, and a vaccine for HMPV may be a viable option in the future.

HMPV may not be as well-known as some of its viral counterparts, but it is quickly emerging as a serious public health concern, particularly in regions like China where the virus is currently causing an uptick in cases. Although it generally causes mild symptoms, it can lead to severe respiratory illness, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Given its ability to spread silently and quickly, HMPV requires close monitoring and robust public health efforts to control its spread. While there is no specific treatment for the virus at present, preventive measures such as hygiene practices, avoiding close contact, and disinfecting surfaces are essential for reducing its transmission. As research into the virus continues, there is hope that a vaccine or antiviral treatment may be developed in the future.

Understanding HMPV and its potential impact on global health is crucial, especially as new viruses continue to emerge in a world that is still grappling with the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Suspected Mpox Case Reported In Kerala: Man With Recent Travel History Shows Symptoms

September 18, 2024, 3:08 pm

A suspected case of monkeypox has been reported in Kerala’s Malappuram district after a man, who recently returned from abroad, began showing symptoms of the disease. The man was initially admitted to a private hospital but was later transferred to the state-run Manjeri Medical College when doctors suspected monkeypox. His samples have been sent to Kozhikode Medical College for testing, and the results are awaited to confirm the strain.

If confirmed, this will be the second monkeypox case in the country. Earlier this week, a 26-year-old man in Haryana, who recently traveled from a country experiencing an outbreak, tested positive for the infection. He has been isolated in a facility, and his condition is stable. The patient has been confirmed to have the Clade II strain of the monkeypox virus.

The Centre has issued an advisory to all states and Union territories, urging them to screen and test suspected Mpox cases within the community and identify isolation facilities in hospitals for both suspected and confirmed patients. In a letter to the states, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra emphasized the importance of preventing panic. “While all States are requested to undertake appropriate activities to make communities aware about the disease, its mode of spread, need for timely reporting and preventive measures, it is crucial that any undue panic amongst the masses is prevented,” the advisory stated.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a public health emergency and has prequalified the MVA-BN vaccine, developed by Bavarian Nordic A/S, as the first approved vaccine against monkeypox. “The prequalification approval is expected to facilitate timely and increased access to this vital product in communities with urgent need, to reduce transmission and help contain the outbreak,” the WHO said in an official statement.

There are two distinct strains of the virus—Clade I and Clade II. Clade I has been responsible for the recent surge in cases in Central and Eastern African countries, which WHO has categorized as a public health emergency. However, Clade II, which has been linked to the earlier 30 cases reported in India since July 2022, is not part of the current global health emergency. The Union Health Ministry confirmed that the recent cases are isolated and not linked to the global outbreak of Clade I. “This case is an isolated case, similar to the earlier 30 cases reported in India from July 2022 onwards, and is not a part of the current public health emergency (reported by WHO) which is regarding Clade I of Mpox,” the ministry stated.

Indore Reports 16 New Dengue Cases in 24 Hours, Total Cases Reach 314

September 5, 2024, 8:47 pm

The city of Indore is witnessing a sharp increase in dengue cases, with 16 new people, including three females, testing positive for the virus in the past 24 hours, according to health officials. This brings the total number of dengue cases in the district to 314 from January to September 4.

District Civil Surgeon GL Sodhi confirmed the figures, stating that out of the total cases, 190 are males and 124 females. Currently, there are 24 active dengue cases in the district. Tragically, a 16-year-old boy who tested positive for dengue also passed away during this period, with cardiac arrest being cited as a contributing factor.

In addition to dengue, seven cases of malaria have also been reported in the district.

Dr. Sodhi highlighted that dengue is spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which breed in clean, stagnant water typically found inside homes. “People should ensure that any stored water is emptied at least once every seven days to prevent mosquito breeding. Stagnant water in flower pots and other containers can also become breeding grounds, so it is advised to clean them regularly or add a small amount of oil to the water,” he explained.

Regarding the health department’s response, Dr. Sodhi said, “When positive cases are reported, a larvae survey is conducted in the affected areas, and necessary actions are taken based on the survey results to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.”

Indore’s rising dengue cases have raised concerns, and residents are urged to take preventive measures to control the spread of the disease.

Unlocking Ancient Secrets: 1,700 Unidentified Viruses Discovered in Himalayan Glacier Melt

September 4, 2024, 1:46 pm

Researchers have discovered nearly 1,700 ancient virus species within the Himalayan glacial ice, according to a new study published in Nature Geoscience. The majority of these viruses were previously unknown to science. This finding emerged from viral DNA remnants found in ice cores extracted from the Guliya Glacier on the Tibetan Plateau, located nearly four miles above sea level. Scientists aim to explore how viruses adapt to climate changes and predict future virus behavior in light of ongoing climate shifts.

“Before this work, the connection between viruses and large-scale climate changes had remained largely unexplored,” stated ZhiPing Zhong, a research associate at The Ohio State University’s Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, as reported by Newsweek. He added, “Glacial ice is so precious, and we often don’t have the large amounts of material required for virus and microbe research.”

The study reveals how these ancient viruses adapted and evolved through significant climatic changes. The viruses, discovered in 2015, span nine time periods over the past 41,000 years, covering three cycles of cold and warmth. One viral community dated back to around 11,500 years ago, when the climate was transitioning from the Last Glacial Stage to the warmer Holocene epoch.

“This indicates a potential link between viruses and climate change,” Zhong noted.

Additionally, about a quarter of the viruses found in the ice cores matched species discovered elsewhere, suggesting they may have been transported from regions like the Middle East or the Arctic.

Researchers are hopeful that this discovery will enhance their ability to predict how contemporary viruses might respond to climate change in the future. “This science provides a new tool for answering fundamental climate questions that were previously beyond our reach,” said Lonnie Thompson, a professor of earth sciences at Ohio State.

Elsewhere, ancient viruses trapped in permafrost have also been uncovered, including in Siberia. While this raises concerns about potential human infection as permafrost and glaciers melt, experts believe these ancient viruses likely infected bacteria rather than animals or humans.

Pakistan Reports 5th Confirmed Mpox Case, Another Suspected In Karachi

September 1, 2024, 9:59 am

Pakistan’s tally of mpox cases has increased to five, with the latest case being confirmed in an air passenger at Peshawar airport, health officials reported on Saturday. Dr. Irshad Ali, Director of Public Health in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stated that airport medical personnel identified two travelers returning from Jeddah who were displaying symptoms consistent with mpox on Thursday. Out of the two, a 51-year-old man from Orakzai was confirmed to have the virus. The patient, currently in stable condition, has been transferred to Police and Services Hospital Peshawar for treatment.

Health Authorities on High Alert

“We are closely monitoring the situation and have implemented all necessary measures to control the spread,” Dr. Irshad assured the public, emphasizing the government’s proactive approach to managing the outbreak.

Suspected Mpox Case in Karachi

Meanwhile, in Karachi, a 32-year-old individual has been admitted to a designated hospital after showing symptoms consistent with mpox, including a maculopapular rash across his body. The patient had recently traveled from Jeddah to Karachi, raising concerns of a potential new case. A spokesperson from the Karachi health department stated, “We are treating this case with the utmost seriousness and are prepared for all possible outcomes.”

No Local Transmission Detected Yet

Despite the rise in cases, officials have confirmed that no locally transmitted cases have been recorded so far. The authorities are focused on preventing the spread of the virus within the country.

Precautionary Measures and Screening

In response to the growing number of cases, Pakistan has implemented stringent screening protocols at airports, especially for travelers returning from regions with reported mpox cases. Laboratories across all provinces and the federal capital have been equipped for diagnosis, ensuring that any new cases are swiftly identified and managed.

Earlier Cases and Government Response

The first reported case of mpox in Pakistan came from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on August 19, involving a 47-year-old resident who had recently returned from Jeddah. Before this, three cases were reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. All the patients affected by mpox had recently returned from abroad, prompting the government to enhance monitoring of travelers from Africa, America, and the Gulf countries.

Global Concern Over Mpox

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through close contact. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the recent outbreak a public health emergency of international concern on August 14 after identifying a new variant of the virus.

Pakistan’s health authorities are on high alert, working diligently to contain the virus and protect the population from further spread. With comprehensive screening and monitoring systems in place, the government remains committed to managing the outbreak effectively.

MPox Outbreak Spread: WHO Urges More Research to Investigate

August 28, 2024, 3:29 am

On August 14, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared an international emergency due to a surge in mpox cases, particularly the Clade 1b strain, in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring regions. This decision highlights the growing concern over the outbreak’s spread.

On Tuesday, the WHO provided an update on the transmission of mpox, noting that while droplets from an infected person contribute minimally to its spread, physical contact remains the primary mode of transmission. The organization emphasized that further research is necessary to fully understand how the outbreak is propagating.

According to the WHO’s website, mpox primarily spreads through close physical contact with an infected individual. This includes direct skin-to-skin contact, such as touching or sexual activity, as well as mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-skin contact, like kissing. Additionally, being face-to-face with someone who has mpox, which can involve breathing near them, may also facilitate the spread of infectious respiratory particles.

WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris explained that although talking closely to someone with mpox could potentially spread the virus through respiratory droplets, this is considered a minor transmission route compared to direct physical contact. She noted that the predominant method of transmission is through direct skin contact, not long-distance airborne particles.

The WHO is calling for more research to clarify the transmission dynamics of mpox. In the meantime, the organization recommends that individuals with mpox, their close contacts, and healthcare workers wear facemasks to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

Bird Flu: Everything you need to Know

April 18, 2024, 5:52 pm

As reports of bird flu outbreaks emerge, particularly in the US, questions arise regarding the safety of consuming eggs and poultry during such incidents. Concerns linger over the possibility of infected hens laying eggs carrying avian flu or H5N1 virus, alongside fears of milk from sick cows posing health risks. We’ll delve into these concerns, debunking misconceptions surrounding the safety of consuming eggs, poultry, and dairy products during bird flu outbreaks.

Ensure Eggs are Cooked Thoroughly:

A Crucial Safety Measure Consuming eggs becomes safe when they are cooked thoroughly. Although it’s accurate that high temperatures can deactivate the avian influenza virus, the danger persists with undercooked eggs. Inadequately cooked eggs might not reach the necessary temperatures to completely neutralize the virus. Therefore, boiled and fried eggs are considered safe options, while half-boiled and runny ones pose risks.

Best Practices for Egg Handling:

Misconceptions often arise regarding the safety of eggs based on their appearance, with some assuming that clean shells equate to safety. However, studies reveal that the avian influenza virus can indeed contaminate the surface of eggshells. This underscores the critical importance of proper egg handling techniques, including thorough washing, diligent hand hygiene, and cooking to mitigate potential risks. To minimize contamination risks, it’s advisable to store raw eggs separately from other foods, particularly those consumed raw, such as salads or fruits. Additionally, using separate cutting boards, utensils, and plates for raw poultry can help prevent cross-contamination.

Likewise, if concerns arise regarding the potential transmission of bird flu via contact with egg cartons purchased from grocery stores, it’s important to note that the likelihood of contracting the virus from packaging is extremely low. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to practice thorough handwashing after handling such items.

Despite common assumptions, not all eggs available on the market are vulnerable to contamination by bird flu. Eggs originating from regions unaffected by the outbreak are typically deemed safe for consumption. Additionally, commercial egg producers frequently enforce rigorous biosecurity protocols to protect their flocks, thereby reducing the risk of disease transmission.

Pasteurized eggs and milk:

Concerns have been raised regarding the safety of pasteurized egg products, which undergo gentle heating within their shells to eliminate bacteria without cooking the egg. Pasteurization, a common method utilized to eradicate pathogens by subjecting products to precise temperatures, effectively eliminates the risk of virus transmission. Consequently, pasteurized milk from leading dairy companies and their derivatives, such as cheese, are considered safe due to this process.

Is it safe to consume eggs from birds that have been vaccinated?

Eggs from birds vaccinated against diseases like avian influenza undergo rigorous testing and approval by regulatory agencies. There is no scientific evidence indicating that consuming eggs from vaccinated birds poses any health risks to humans.

What are some methods for preparing chicken?

When cooking chicken, ensure that its internal temperature reaches a minimum of 165°F (74°C), confirmed with a food thermometer. Store chicken in its original packaging or a covered container on the lowest refrigerator shelf to prevent juices from contaminating other foods. Safely thaw chicken in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave, avoiding room temperature thawing to prevent bacterial proliferation. Instead of washing raw chicken, rinse it under cold water and dry with paper towels to prevent bacterial spread in your kitchen.

DGCI Approves Covovax In Markets

January 17, 2023, 5:31 pm

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved the official market business of Serum Institute of India’s (SII) COVID-19 vaccine Covovax as a tertiary booster dose.
This vaccine can be taken as a booster dose by people who have already taken two doses of Covishield or Covaxin. Last December, the DCGI approved Covovax for restricted use in emergency situations in adults. It was approved for teenagers aged between 12-17 on 9 March 2022 and for children aged 7 to 11 on 28 June 2022, subject to certain conditions.