New Delhi: Amid the global coronavirus surge, the nasal vaccine has got a go-ahead as India is stepping up the vaccination drive. The expert committee which approves vaccines has given a nod to the nasal vaccine.
The big move came as Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a Covid review meeting to assess preparedness.
Nasal vaccine is a big relief for people shying away from injections. Nasal vaccines are considered better than their injectable counterparts. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan, Dr VK Paul of Niti Aayog were among those present at the meeting via video call.
Nasal vaccines have many benefits compared to their injectable counterparts. Besides the ease of storage, distribution and less waste generation, nasal vaccines also provide protection right at the entry points of the virus – the nose or the upper respiratory tract.
On December 1, India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) approved the world’s first intra-nasal vaccine for COVID developed by India for restricted use in emergency situations in the age group of 18 and above.
