No mixing of vaccines for now, continue same jabs for both doses: Govt rules out protocol changes

Ruling out any protocol changes, the federal government on Tuesday mentioned same vaccines needs to be administered for both doses. The clarification got here after a number of experiences indicated that the federal government would possibly go for changes in its vaccination technique.

“Mixing of vaccine is not the protocol yet, same vaccines (Covishield and Covaxin) to be administered for both doses. Stick to the SOP,” an official of the well being ministry mentioned throughout a press convention immediately. 

He mentioned worldwide analysis was nonetheless underway on the mixing of vaccines as the chance of a constructive impact can also be believable however a dangerous response can’t be dominated out both. It is an unresolved scientific query, science will settle it, he added.

Further, the official additionally mentioned that there was no change within the schedule of Covishield doses. “It will be two doses only. After the first Covishield dose is administered, second dose will be given after 12 weeks. The same schedule is applicable to Covaxin,” he mentioned. 

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Meanwhile, the federal government additionally refuted experiences of a vaccine scarcity within the nation. Dr. Balram Bhargava, the top of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), mentioned India can have sufficient doses to vaccinate 1 crore individuals per day by mid-July or August. “We are confident of vaccinating the whole population by December,” he mentioned.

According to the ministry, a complete of 21.60 crore vaccine doses have been administered within the nation with 1.67 crore doses to well being employees, 2.42 crore to entrance line employees, 15.48 crore to individuals in 45+ age group whereas for these in 18-44 age group, 2.03 doses. 

Focus on kids

The authorities’s focus is on childhood Covid illness. “The pediatric population is generally asymptomatic. They often get infections but their symptoms are minimal or nill. The infection has not taken serious shape in children,” NITI Aayog member Dr. VK Paul mentioned.

“…But the virus may change its behaviour in the pediatric population. The impact of COVID-19 may increase in children. The data has shown that a low number of children are being admitted to hospitals. We’re pushing preparedness,” he mentioned.

READ MORE: Opinion | Target to vaccinate most of individuals earlier than Diwali, all earlier than Christmas

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