Estonia's envoy Katrin Kivi has said, "any vaccine is better than no vaccine" even as the European Union has come with new certificates for travel inside the block. While the block uses the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) list that has 4 vaccines listed, each member country is free to put any vaccine on the national list.

Any vaccine is better than no vaccine, says Estonia Envoy Katrin Kivi

India has reached out to member countries of the European Union, urging to list domestically-made coronavirus&nbsp;vaccines--Covaxin and&nbsp;Covishield on the national travel lists formed in the backdrop of the Covid crisis.

Listing of these two&nbsp;vaccines ensures that anyone who is inoculated by them can be exempted under the EU green pass, also known as European Union (EU) Digital Covid Certificate that comes into effect from today.&nbsp;

New Delhi has also urged the EU member counties to accept the&nbsp;vaccination certificate issued through India's CoWIN portal. The CoWIN portal is a digital platform India is using as part of its vaccination drive against the Covid.

In a quid pro quo gesture, the offer includes "reciprocal&nbsp;recognition" of EU green pass if EU states agree with the above two proposals. This, in effect, means that travelers from the EU countries carrying the EU&nbsp;Digital Covid Certificate will be exempted from&nbsp;mandatory quarantine.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many EU Member states like Ireland have given approval to Covishield for its national travel list.

The EU green pass uses the&nbsp;&nbsp;European Medicines Agency (EMA) list of approved vaccines.&nbsp;EMA, which gives commercial authorisation lists only 4 vaccines, none of them are India-made vaccines. But each member state has been given the&nbsp;flexibility to also accept vaccines that have been authorized at the national level or by the World Health Organization. WHO has given approval to 8 vaccines, which include Covishield manufactured by Serum Institute of India.

"The EU Digital covid certificate is meant to facilitate safe movement during the COVID-19 pandemic within the European Union. It will serve as proof that the person was vaccinated against covid 19 or received a negative result or recovered from COVID",&nbsp;European Union's envoy to India Ugo Astuto told WION earlier this week.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had met his European counterpart Josep Borrell on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet in Italy had raised the matter of Covishield's authorization. Earlier the matter has been raised with the&nbsp;EMA as well.

&nbsp;

India has reached out to member countries of the European Union, urging to list domestically-made coronavirus vaccines--Covaxin and Covishield on the national travel lists formed in the backdrop of the Covid crisis.

India has reached out to member countries of the European Union, urging to list domestically-made coronavirus vaccines--Covaxin and Covishield on the national travel lists formed in the backdrop of the Covid crisis. Listing of these two vaccines ensures that anyone who is inoculated by them can be exempted under the EU green pass, also known as European Union (EU) Digital Covid Certificate that comes into effect from today. New Delhi has also urged the EU member counties to accept the vaccination certificate issued through India's CoWIN portal. The CoWIN portal is a digital platform India is using as part of its vaccination drive against the Covid. In a quid pro quo gesture, the offer includes "reciprocal recognition" of EU green pass if EU states agree with the above two proposals. This, in effect, means that travelers from the EU countries carrying the EU Digital Covid Certificate will be exempted from mandatory quarantine. Many EU Member states like Ireland have given approval to Covishield for its national travel list. The EU green pass uses the European Medicines Agency (EMA) list of approved vaccines. EMA, which gives commercial authorisation lists only 4 vaccines, none of them are India-made vaccines. But each member state has been given the flexibility to also accept vaccines that have been authorized at the national level or by the World Health Organization. WHO has given approval to 8 vaccines, which include Covishield manufactured by Serum Institute of India. "The EU Digital covid certificate is meant to facilitate safe movement during the COVID-19 pandemic within the European Union. It will serve as proof that the person was vaccinated against covid 19 or received a negative result or recovered from COVID", European Union's envoy to India Ugo Astuto told WION earlier this week. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had met his European counterpart Josep Borrell on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet in Italy had raised the matter of Covishield's authorization. Earlier the matter has been raised with the EMA as well.

India reaches out to EU member countries for exemption on India-made vaccines

Seven European Union countries- Germany, Slovenia, Austria, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Spain- and Switzerland have put the Covishield vaccine, shortly after India warned of retaliation when none of its vaccines were added to the ‘Green Pass’.

Seven countries in Europe accepting Covishield for travel: Report

Nine&nbsp;European countries have listed Covishield on the national guidelines for travel amid the COVID crisis, a development that comes even as the European Union Green pass that comes into effect from today for inter-bloc travel.

The countries which have approved the Covishield vaccine include Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Greece, Ireland, Spain and Estonia.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-asks-eu-to-accept-covaxin-covishield-or-to-face-quarantine-395087/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Importantly, Estonia has confirmed it&nbsp;"will recognise all the vaccines authorised by Government of India for travel of Indians to Estonia,"&nbsp; sources told WION.

That means that both Covishield and Covaxin vaccinated persons are allowed in the country, along with Sputnik and Moderna. Estonia in northern Europe is the first EU member country to list both the India-made vaccines.

Switzerland has allowed Covishield as a Schengen state or the common area comprising of 26 European countries that have a common visa policy.&nbsp;Iceland, which is not part of the bloc but is in the European Economic Area, has also agreed to the Serum Institute of India-made vaccines. Both Switzerland and Iceland are not part of the EU bloc.

The development comes amid a row over EU green pass or&nbsp;European Union (EU) Digital Covid Certificate that uses the&nbsp;European Medicines Agency (EMA) list of approved vaccines.&nbsp;

EMA commercially authorises vaccines in the bloc and has listed only four&nbsp;vaccines, none of which are India-made vaccines.&nbsp;India has reached out to member countries of the European Union, urging to list India-made Covaxin and&nbsp;Covishield on the national travel lists formed in the backdrop of Covid crisis.

New Delhi has also urged the EU member counties to accept the vaccination certificate issued through India's CoWIN portal. The CoWIN portal is a digital platform India is using as part of its vaccination drive.

As part of a reciprocal win-win situation for all,&nbsp;nationals from all countries which have accepted Indian proposals will be exempted from mandatory quarantine, with Indian authorities recognising the EU green pass.

Nine European countries have listed Covishield on the national guidelines for travel amid the COVID crisis, a development that comes even as the European Union Green pass that comes into effect from today for inter-bloc travel.

Nine European countries have listed Covishield on the national guidelines for travel amid the COVID crisis, a development that comes even as the European Union Green pass that comes into effect from today for inter-bloc travel. The countries which have approved the Covishield vaccine include Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Greece, Ireland, Spain and Estonia. Importantly, Estonia has confirmed it "will recognise all the vaccines authorised by Government of India for travel of Indians to Estonia," sources told WION. That means that both Covishield and Covaxin vaccinated persons are allowed in the country, along with Sputnik and Moderna. Estonia in northern Europe is the first EU member country to list both the India-made vaccines. Switzerland has allowed Covishield as a Schengen state or the common area comprising of 26 European countries that have a common visa policy. Iceland, which is not part of the bloc but is in the European Economic Area, has also agreed to the Serum Institute of India-made vaccines. Both Switzerland and Iceland are not part of the EU bloc. The development comes amid a row over EU green pass or European Union (EU) Digital Covid Certificate that uses the European Medicines Agency (EMA) list of approved vaccines. EMA commercially authorises vaccines in the bloc and has listed only four vaccines, none of which are India-made vaccines. India has reached out to member countries of the European Union, urging to list India-made Covaxin and Covishield on the national travel lists formed in the backdrop of Covid crisis. New Delhi has also urged the EU member counties to accept the vaccination certificate issued through India's CoWIN portal. The CoWIN portal is a digital platform India is using as part of its vaccination drive. As part of a reciprocal win-win situation for all, nationals from all countries which have accepted Indian proposals will be exempted from mandatory quarantine, with Indian authorities recognising the EU green pass.

Nine European countries list India-made Covishield on national travel list

7 EU nation's include Covishield in ‘Green Pass’ list

The Indian government has reportedly told the EU that it should either accept the two vaccines manufactured in India, Covaxin and Covishield, or face mandatory quarantine upon arrival in India.

India asks EU to accept Covaxin, Covishield or to face quarantine

The European Union (EU) digital certificate was meant to facilitate free movement but EU green pass excluded India's Covishield. Watch this report to know more.

Covishield excluded from EU's COVID 'Green Pass'

European Union's envoy to India&nbsp;Ugo Astuto has said that each EU member state can have WHO-approved vaccines on the national list for travel, days after it emerged that the&nbsp;European Medicines Agency (EMA)&nbsp;did&nbsp;not list India-made Covishield vaccine.&nbsp;

Speaking to our&nbsp;Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal,&nbsp;Astuto said, "individual member states will also have the option to accept the vaccination that has been authorised by the World Health Organization."

Covishield, while on WHO's authorised list, is not listed by the&nbsp;European Medicines Agency. EMA supervises medicinal products for marketing authorisation in the bloc. The EU green pass that comes into effect from July 1 and eases travel movement in the bloc&nbsp;uses the EMA list.&nbsp;

WION: What is the EU stance over the absence of Covishield vaccine&nbsp;when it comes to EU green pass?

Ugo Astuto: The EU digital Covid certificate is meant to facilitate safe movement during the pandemic within the European Union. It will serve as proof that the person was vaccinated against the virus&nbsp;or received a negative result or recovered from COVID-19.

The aim of the digital certificate is to facilitate free movement inside the European Union but it is not a pre-condition to travel. Persons for instance who have not been vaccinated will continue to travel&nbsp;based on the current restrictions and limitations which are familiar by now, quarantine, testing.

For the purpose of the digital Covid certificate, individual member states will also have the option to accept the vaccination that has been authorized by the WHO.

Besides the list of the vaccination authorised by EMA, individual member states can take the decision to include in own national list, other vaccination authorized by WHO, and I understand Covishield is in the situation.

As far as EMA authorisation is concerned, I have read a statement and as of yesterday, they have not received the request for approval of Covishield. I am sure, EMA will examine any such request based on its procedures.&nbsp;EMA does not investigate new drugs on its own and needs to receive a request from the relevant countries.

WION:&nbsp;What is the way forward to ease travel for Indian nationals? What is the basis of using the EMA list for the EU green pass? Has there been&nbsp;any inter-EU conversation on it?

Ugo Astuto: The council has adopted recently&nbsp;a revised recommendation updating approach to travel from outside the European Union.

Council recommendation aims to ease the current temporary restrictions on non-essential travelling to the EU taking into account the progress of vaccination campaigns, the development in the pandemic worldwide. The situation is constantly being reviewed, the experience will also serve as a test to explore how best to adapt to the easing of temporary restrictions from countries and develop appropriate modalities.

But this is a work in progress. When it comes to India, we have temporary restrictions in place on non-essential travel due to the situation of the pandemic&nbsp;as the viruses of interest and viruses of concern have been detected. The situation is fluid and it is regularly reviewed, lets hope for the best.

European Union's envoy to India Ugo Astuto has said that each EU member state can have WHO-approved vaccines on the national list for travel, days after it emerged that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) did not list India-made Covishield vaccine.

European Union's envoy to India Ugo Astuto has said that each EU member state can have WHO-approved vaccines on the national list for travel, days after it emerged that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) did not list India-made Covishield vaccine. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, Astuto said, "individual member states will also have the option to accept the vaccination that has been authorised by the World Health Organization." Covishield, while on WHO's authorised list, is not listed by the European Medicines Agency. EMA supervises medicinal products for marketing authorisation in the bloc. The EU green pass that comes into effect from July 1 and eases travel movement in the bloc uses the EMA list. WION: What is the EU stance over the absence of Covishield vaccine when it comes to EU green pass? Ugo Astuto: The EU digital Covid certificate is meant to facilitate safe movement during the pandemic within the European Union. It will serve as proof that the person was vaccinated against the virus or received a negative result or recovered from COVID-19. The aim of the digital certificate is to facilitate free movement inside the European Union but it is not a pre-condition to travel. Persons for instance who have not been vaccinated will continue to travel based on the current restrictions and limitations which are familiar by now, quarantine, testing. For the purpose of the digital Covid certificate, individual member states will also have the option to accept the vaccination that has been authorized by the WHO. Besides the list of the vaccination authorised by EMA, individual member states can take the decision to include in own national list, other vaccination authorized by WHO, and I understand Covishield is in the situation. As far as EMA authorisation is concerned, I have read a statement and as of yesterday, they have not received the request for approval of Covishield. I am sure, EMA will examine any such request based on its procedures. EMA does not investigate new drugs on its own and needs to receive a request from the relevant countries. WION: What is the way forward to ease travel for Indian nationals? What is the basis of using the EMA list for the EU green pass? Has there been any inter-EU conversation on it? Ugo Astuto: The council has adopted recently a revised recommendation updating approach to travel from outside the European Union. Council recommendation aims to ease the current temporary restrictions on non-essential travelling to the EU taking into account the progress of vaccination campaigns, the development in the pandemic worldwide. The situation is constantly being reviewed, the experience will also serve as a test to explore how best to adapt to the easing of temporary restrictions from countries and develop appropriate modalities. But this is a work in progress. When it comes to India, we have temporary restrictions in place on non-essential travel due to the situation of the pandemic as the viruses of interest and viruses of concern have been detected. The situation is fluid and it is regularly reviewed, lets hope for the best.

WHO-approved vaccines can be on national list for travel, says EU envoy

France is "actively working"&nbsp;on the issue of Covishield's absence on the European Union "Green Pass" after the matter was raised bilaterally by India.The EU Green Pass comes into effect from the July 1&nbsp;and lists four&nbsp;approved vaccines that do not include India-made Covishield.&nbsp;

Approved vaccines are Comirnaty (Pfizer),&nbsp;Janssen (Johnson &amp; Johnson), Spikevax (Moderna), and&nbsp;Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca) which is the same vaccine as Covishield.

French government sources said, "We are aware of the issue. We are working on it actively."

The inclusion of Covishield for the EU Green Pass for travel can only be done by&nbsp;European Medicines Agency or EMA-market authorised vaccines but additional vaccines could be included.&nbsp;EMA doesn't decide the list on the pass but the member states have some flexibility to adapt the list for their national pass.

For market authorisation of Covishield for use in the EU, the Serum Institute of India needs to apply for&nbsp;EMA, which then conducts a verification of the production site, etc.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-takes-up-covishields-absence-from-the-european-unions-green-pass-list-394418" hreflang="en">India takes up Covishield's absence from the European Union's 'Green Pass' list</a>

"Vaccine called Covishield does not currently have a marketing authorisation... Covishield as such is not currently approved under EU rules", EMA told WION yesterday.

SII hasn't&nbsp;applied yet for EMA authorisation with assurance coming from its Chief Adar Poonawalla&nbsp;that the matter would&nbsp;be resolved soon.

EU's Green Pass aims to facilitate the safe free movement of its nationals in the EU during the COVID-19 pandemic. EU member countries are using it already.&nbsp;Green Pass&nbsp;or simplified--EU Digital COVID Certificate is digital proof that a person has either been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test result, or recovered from COVID-19.&nbsp;

France is "actively working" on the issue of Covishield's absence on the European Union "Green Pass" after the matter was raised bilaterally by India.The EU Green Pass comes into effect from the July 1 and lists four approved vaccines that do not include India-made Covishield.

France is "actively working" on the issue of Covishield's absence on the European Union "Green Pass" after the matter was raised bilaterally by India.The EU Green Pass comes into effect from the July 1 and lists four approved vaccines that do not include India-made Covishield. Approved vaccines are Comirnaty (Pfizer), Janssen (Johnson & Johnson), Spikevax (Moderna), and Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca) which is the same vaccine as Covishield. French government sources said, "We are aware of the issue. We are working on it actively." The inclusion of Covishield for the EU Green Pass for travel can only be done by European Medicines Agency or EMA-market authorised vaccines but additional vaccines could be included. EMA doesn't decide the list on the pass but the member states have some flexibility to adapt the list for their national pass. For market authorisation of Covishield for use in the EU, the Serum Institute of India needs to apply for EMA, which then conducts a verification of the production site, etc. Also read: India takes up Covishield's absence from the European Union's 'Green Pass' list "Vaccine called Covishield does not currently have a marketing authorisation... Covishield as such is not currently approved under EU rules", EMA told WION yesterday. SII hasn't applied yet for EMA authorisation with assurance coming from its Chief Adar Poonawalla that the matter would be resolved soon. EU's Green Pass aims to facilitate the safe free movement of its nationals in the EU during the COVID-19 pandemic. EU member countries are using it already. Green Pass or simplified--EU Digital COVID Certificate is digital proof that a person has either been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test result, or recovered from COVID-19.

France 'actively working' on India's concerns over Covishield's absence from EU Green Pass

India's apex drug regulator has waived the requirement of testing every batch of foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines by the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli and post-launch bridging trials for such firms, a move that will bolster the availability of vaccines.

The decision by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) comes in the backdrop of Pfizer and Cipla putting forth similar demands during negotiations to supply imported vaccines to India.

These exemptions have been made in light of the huge vaccination requirements in India in the wake of the recent surge of COVID-19 cases and the need for increased availability of imported vaccines to meet national requirements, according to DCGI.

"It has been decided that for approval of COVID-19 vaccines in India for restricted use in an emergency situation which is already approved for restricted use by US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA, PMDA Japan or which are listed in WHO Emergency Use Listing and which are well-established vaccines from the standpoint that millions of individuals have already been vaccinated with the said vaccines, the requirement of conducting post-approval bridging clinical trials and of testing every batch of vaccine by CDL, Kasauli can be exempted, if the vaccine batch/lot has been certified and released by National Control Laboratory of the country of origin," it said.

However, scrutiny of their summary lot protocol and certificate of analysis of batch or lot shall be undertaken by CDL, Kasauli for release as per standard procedures and requirement of assessment on the first 100 beneficiaries for seven days for safety outcomes before the vaccine is rolled out for further immunization programme, the DCGI said in a notice issued on June 1.

India's apex drug regulator has waived the requirement of testing every batch of foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines by the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli and post-launch bridging trials for such firms, a move that will bolster the availability of vaccines.

India's apex drug regulator has waived the requirement of testing every batch of foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines by the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli and post-launch bridging trials for such firms, a move that will bolster the availability of vaccines. The decision by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) comes in the backdrop of Pfizer and Cipla putting forth similar demands during negotiations to supply imported vaccines to India. These exemptions have been made in light of the huge vaccination requirements in India in the wake of the recent surge of COVID-19 cases and the need for increased availability of imported vaccines to meet national requirements, according to DCGI. "It has been decided that for approval of COVID-19 vaccines in India for restricted use in an emergency situation which is already approved for restricted use by US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA, PMDA Japan or which are listed in WHO Emergency Use Listing and which are well-established vaccines from the standpoint that millions of individuals have already been vaccinated with the said vaccines, the requirement of conducting post-approval bridging clinical trials and of testing every batch of vaccine by CDL, Kasauli can be exempted, if the vaccine batch/lot has been certified and released by National Control Laboratory of the country of origin," it said. However, scrutiny of their summary lot protocol and certificate of analysis of batch or lot shall be undertaken by CDL, Kasauli for release as per standard procedures and requirement of assessment on the first 100 beneficiaries for seven days for safety outcomes before the vaccine is rolled out for further immunization programme, the DCGI said in a notice issued on June 1.

Indian drugs regulator DCGI eases norms for clearing foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines

People all over the world are still learning how effective vaccinations are at preventing the deadly virus that causes COVID-19 from spreading to others, even if you don't have symptoms.&nbsp;

Early evidence suggests that vaccinations can help prevent COVID-19 from spreading among people who have no symptoms.&nbsp;

Vaccines are effective and safe. You may experience side effects as a result of the vaccine, but these are common and will pass in a few days.

Here are some of the tips from health experts about what to do before, during and after getting vaccinated for COVID-19:&nbsp;

Which one is the best vaccine among all 3 available in India?

Covisheild, Covaxin and the recently added Sputnik V&nbsp;are the vaccines available to Indians. All three are effective in both avoiding infection and preventing the disease from progressing to a severe stage. They avoid fatality in the long run for the elderly and those with comorbidities.&nbsp;

Who should not get the Covid vaccine?

According to the UNICEF, at present, people with the following health conditions should not receive a COVID-19 vaccine to avoid any possible adverse effects:

If you have a history of severe allergic reactions to any ingredients of a COVID-19 vaccine.

If you are currently sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (although you can get vaccinated once you have recovered and your doctor has approved). 
 
Before getting vaccinated, here are some tips to keep in mind

1: Register yourself for the jab on the Co-WIN portal and Aarogya Setu app

2: The vaccine should not be taken on an empty stomach. As you prepare for your immunisation, eat healthily.

3: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

4: Alcohol use should be avoided because it can dehydrate you.

5: To feel your best on the day of your vaccination, get a good night's sleep.&nbsp;

Valuable tips that will help you after vaccination

Stay for monitoring:&nbsp;

Stay seated at the health centre for 15-30 minutes after your vaccination. Doctors will keep an eye on you for any immediate reactions. If you feel dizzy, nauseated, vomiting, or have an allergic response, please report it to the health workers.&nbsp;

Common side effects&nbsp;

As your body develops immunological defence, expect some side effects. These may go away in 1-2 days.&nbsp;

These side effects are:

Arm soreness at the injection site 
Mild fever 
Fatigue 
Headaches 
Muscle or joint aches&nbsp; 
Chills 
Diarrhoea 
Sleeplessness 
 
Which drug should be taken to minimise the adverse effects of this vaccine?

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website, in case of minor adverse effects such as injection site pain, tenderness, malaise, pyrexia, etc., paracetamol may be used to alleviate the symptoms.

People all over the world are still learning how effective vaccinations are at preventing the deadly virus that causes COVID-19 from spreading to others, even if you don't have symptoms.

People all over the world are still learning how effective vaccinations are at preventing the deadly virus that causes COVID-19 from spreading to others, even if you don't have symptoms. Early evidence suggests that vaccinations can help prevent COVID-19 from spreading among people who have no symptoms. Vaccines are effective and safe. You may experience side effects as a result of the vaccine, but these are common and will pass in a few days. Here are some of the tips from health experts about what to do before, during and after getting vaccinated for COVID-19: Which one is the best vaccine among all 3 available in India? Covisheild, Covaxin and the recently added Sputnik V are the vaccines available to Indians. All three are effective in both avoiding infection and preventing the disease from progressing to a severe stage. They avoid fatality in the long run for the elderly and those with comorbidities. Who should not get the Covid vaccine? According to the UNICEF, at present, people with the following health conditions should not receive a COVID-19 vaccine to avoid any possible adverse effects: If you have a history of severe allergic reactions to any ingredients of a COVID-19 vaccine. If you are currently sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (although you can get vaccinated once you have recovered and your doctor has approved). Before getting vaccinated, here are some tips to keep in mind 1: Register yourself for the jab on the Co-WIN portal and Aarogya Setu app 2: The vaccine should not be taken on an empty stomach. As you prepare for your immunisation, eat healthily. 3: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. 4: Alcohol use should be avoided because it can dehydrate you. 5: To feel your best on the day of your vaccination, get a good night's sleep. Valuable tips that will help you after vaccination Stay for monitoring: Stay seated at the health centre for 15-30 minutes after your vaccination. Doctors will keep an eye on you for any immediate reactions. If you feel dizzy, nauseated, vomiting, or have an allergic response, please report it to the health workers. Common side effects As your body develops immunological defence, expect some side effects. These may go away in 1-2 days. These side effects are: Arm soreness at the injection site Mild fever Fatigue Headaches Muscle or joint aches Chills Diarrhoea Sleeplessness Which drug should be taken to minimise the adverse effects of this vaccine? According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website, in case of minor adverse effects such as injection site pain, tenderness, malaise, pyrexia, etc., paracetamol may be used to alleviate the symptoms.

COVID-19 vaccination: Tips to follow before and after taking the jab

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-active-covid-19-caseload-below-2-million-mark-127510-new-cases-reported-388727">India</a> continues to grapple with the pandemic, the health ministry said mixing of vaccines has not become the protocol yet with Covishield and Covaxin vaccines to be administered separately for both doses.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-reports-127510-new-covid-19-cases-2795-deaths-in-last-24-hours-388781/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"There's international research underway on the mixing of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-tamil-nadu-govt-to-receive-4-20000-doses-of-vaccines-as-stocks-went-empty-had-to-stop-vaccination-388765">vaccines</a> as the possibility of a positive effect is also plausible but a harmful reaction cannot be ruled out either," the health ministry said.

The ministry added that it is an "unresolved" scientific question and that "science will settle it."

"There is absolutely no change in the schedule of Covishield doses,&nbsp;it will be two doses only," it said, adding, "after the first Covishield dose is administered, the second dose will be given after 12 weeks."

According to the health ministry, a total 21.60 crore vaccine doses have been administered in India with 1.67 crore doses to health workers and 15.48 crore to people in 45+ age group.

The health ministry informed that 1,27,000 cases have been reported in the last 24 hours with the country reporting less than 2 lakh cases since May 28.

The number of active COVID-19 cases are down 50 per cent with 1.3 lakh decrease in active cases in a day, the health ministry said.

Meanwhile, India's capital reported 623 new coronavirus cases and 62 fatalities with the number of active cases at over 10,000.

As cases in India show&nbsp;a steep decline, NITI Aayog's Dr VK Paul said that the government's focus has now turned to coronavirus disease among children.

"The pediatric population is generally asymptomatic. They often get infections but their symptoms are minimal," VK Paul said.

"The infection has not taken serious shape in children but the virus may change its behaviour in the pediatric population. The impact of coronavirus may increase in children."

"The data has shown that a low number of children are being admitted to hospitals. We are pushing for preparedness," the Niti Ayog official added.

(With inputs from agencies)

As India continues to grapple with the pandemic, the health ministry said mixing of vaccines has not become the protocol yet with Covishield and Covaxin vaccines to be administered separately for both doses.

As India continues to grapple with the pandemic, the health ministry said mixing of vaccines has not become the protocol yet with Covishield and Covaxin vaccines to be administered separately for both doses. Watch: "There's international research underway on the mixing of vaccines as the possibility of a positive effect is also plausible but a harmful reaction cannot be ruled out either," the health ministry said. The ministry added that it is an "unresolved" scientific question and that "science will settle it." "There is absolutely no change in the schedule of Covishield doses, it will be two doses only," it said, adding, "after the first Covishield dose is administered, the second dose will be given after 12 weeks." According to the health ministry, a total 21.60 crore vaccine doses have been administered in India with 1.67 crore doses to health workers and 15.48 crore to people in 45+ age group. The health ministry informed that 1,27,000 cases have been reported in the last 24 hours with the country reporting less than 2 lakh cases since May 28. The number of active COVID-19 cases are down 50 per cent with 1.3 lakh decrease in active cases in a day, the health ministry said. Meanwhile, India's capital reported 623 new coronavirus cases and 62 fatalities with the number of active cases at over 10,000. As cases in India show a steep decline, NITI Aayog's Dr VK Paul said that the government's focus has now turned to coronavirus disease among children. "The pediatric population is generally asymptomatic. They often get infections but their symptoms are minimal," VK Paul said. "The infection has not taken serious shape in children but the virus may change its behaviour in the pediatric population. The impact of coronavirus may increase in children." "The data has shown that a low number of children are being admitted to hospitals. We are pushing for preparedness," the Niti Ayog official added. (With inputs from agencies)

Mixing vaccines has not become the protocol: India health ministry

Dramatically ramping up COVID-19 vaccination drive is key to ending the crisis in India and extending the gap between two doses of Covishield is a "reasonable approach," White House chief medical adviser Dr. Anthony Fauci told ANI in an exclusive interview on Thursday.

"When you are in a very difficult situation, the way you are in India, you have to try and figure out ways to get as many people vaccinated as quickly as you can, so I believe that it is a reasonable approach to do," Fauci said.

On Thursday, the Government of India announced that the gap between the first and second doses of the Covishield COVID-19 vaccine has been increased to 12-16 weeks,&nbsp;from the existing 6-8 weeks.

This is for the second time in three months that Covishield dosage intervals have been widened and this move has once again garnered criticism, as a cover-up for not having enough vaccines for the people in India.

However, Dr Fauci said that this "extended interval" is beneficial even from the efficacy standpoint.

"The fact that you delay it that long, it is very unlikely that it would have a negative effect on the efficacy of the vaccine. I would not refer to it as a cover up when you don`t have enough vaccines," Fauci told ANI.

India is most likely to roll out Russia`s Sputnik V vaccine against the coronavirus to be administered to citizens starting next week. With this, India will now have three vaccines to boost its mega vaccination drive which was recently opened for those above 18 years.

When asked about the efficacy of the Sputnik V Vaccine, "I`ve heard about the Sputnik, is that, it seems to be quite efficacious, at a high level of close to 90 per cent or so," Fauci responded.

Last year, when the US was battling with the surge of COVID-19 cases, the Department of Defense docked two naval warships--USNS Mercy and USNS Comfort--on the coasts of New York and Los Angeles to step up the efforts in combating the virus.

Dr. Fauci, one of COVID`s most trusted names, suggests that India should step up the role of the armed forces in combating COVID-19.

"You can use the military sometimes to get things done quickly that you otherwise in the private sector would not be able to, for example, I know that there`s a shortage of hospital beds right now that people who need to be in a hospital or not getting into a hospital because of the shortage of the beds, you can get the military to put up field hospitals, the same way they would during time of war, that could serve as a substitute for the classic hospital." Fauci told ANI.

While replying to a query on resuming travel to India amid the pandemic, Fauci said, "It really is going to depend on the level of infection right now. India has a very very high level of infection. And that would mean that it would be very very difficult to resume travel there right now."

As more people around the world become vaccinated and the summer travel season is approaching, countries around the world are scrambling to get digital health certification programs or Vaccine passports in place.

However, Fauci says that US borders will not have the vaccine passport mandate.

"Several of the airlines may say you`re not going to be able to fly on our flight, unless you have a verification that you`ve been vaccinated, in essence- a vaccine passport, but again to repeat that at least in the United State-that is not going to be mandated from a federal standpoint."

India is currently experiencing a devastating surge of COVID-19 with record-breaking cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

The country`s health care system is teetering on the edge of collapse as hospitals are overcrowded and much-needed medical supplies are in low supply.

Dramatically ramping up COVID-19 vaccination drive is key to ending the crisis in India and extending the gap between two doses of Covishield is a "reasonable approach," White House chief medical adviser Dr.

Dramatically ramping up COVID-19 vaccination drive is key to ending the crisis in India and extending the gap between two doses of Covishield is a "reasonable approach," White House chief medical adviser Dr. Anthony Fauci told ANI in an exclusive interview on Thursday. "When you are in a very difficult situation, the way you are in India, you have to try and figure out ways to get as many people vaccinated as quickly as you can, so I believe that it is a reasonable approach to do," Fauci said. On Thursday, the Government of India announced that the gap between the first and second doses of the Covishield COVID-19 vaccine has been increased to 12-16 weeks, from the existing 6-8 weeks. This is for the second time in three months that Covishield dosage intervals have been widened and this move has once again garnered criticism, as a cover-up for not having enough vaccines for the people in India. However, Dr Fauci said that this "extended interval" is beneficial even from the efficacy standpoint. "The fact that you delay it that long, it is very unlikely that it would have a negative effect on the efficacy of the vaccine. I would not refer to it as a cover up when you don`t have enough vaccines," Fauci told ANI. India is most likely to roll out Russia`s Sputnik V vaccine against the coronavirus to be administered to citizens starting next week. With this, India will now have three vaccines to boost its mega vaccination drive which was recently opened for those above 18 years. When asked about the efficacy of the Sputnik V Vaccine, "I`ve heard about the Sputnik, is that, it seems to be quite efficacious, at a high level of close to 90 per cent or so," Fauci responded. Last year, when the US was battling with the surge of COVID-19 cases, the Department of Defense docked two naval warships--USNS Mercy and USNS Comfort--on the coasts of New York and Los Angeles to step up the efforts in combating the virus. Dr. Fauci, one of COVID`s most trusted names, suggests that India should step up the role of the armed forces in combating COVID-19. "You can use the military sometimes to get things done quickly that you otherwise in the private sector would not be able to, for example, I know that there`s a shortage of hospital beds right now that people who need to be in a hospital or not getting into a hospital because of the shortage of the beds, you can get the military to put up field hospitals, the same way they would during time of war, that could serve as a substitute for the classic hospital." Fauci told ANI. While replying to a query on resuming travel to India amid the pandemic, Fauci said, "It really is going to depend on the level of infection right now. India has a very very high level of infection. And that would mean that it would be very very difficult to resume travel there right now." As more people around the world become vaccinated and the summer travel season is approaching, countries around the world are scrambling to get digital health certification programs or Vaccine passports in place. However, Fauci says that US borders will not have the vaccine passport mandate. "Several of the airlines may say you`re not going to be able to fly on our flight, unless you have a verification that you`ve been vaccinated, in essence- a vaccine passport, but again to repeat that at least in the United State-that is not going to be mandated from a federal standpoint." India is currently experiencing a devastating surge of COVID-19 with record-breaking cases, hospitalizations and deaths. The country`s health care system is teetering on the edge of collapse as hospitals are overcrowded and much-needed medical supplies are in low supply.

Extended gap between two doses of Covishield reasonable approach, says Anthony Fauci

India has tweaked its vaccination rules. Those who recently recovered shouldn't take a shot before 6 months. The gap between the 1st & 2nd dose of Covishield has been increased to up to 16 weeks. This comes amid an acute shortage of vaccines. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: New rules for vaccination in India

A group of health workers in India’s northeastern state of Assam is being questioned about running a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> centre that is allegedly unauthorised.

The vaccination centre was set up at Silchar civil hospital in Assam without completing and following the required process and the health workers had been charging nearly INR 2,000 for each dose.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mulls-joint-production-of-johnson-johnson-covid-vaccine-with-india-384452" hreflang="en">US mulls joint production of Johnson &amp; Johnson Covid jabs with India</a>

In addition to unauthorised establishment and charging more than the set price, the group has also been accused of not recording details of at least 80 people who had been administered the first shot of Covidshield vaccine.

Nearly 10 vaccine vials were issued in the name of Urban Health Center but were actually used to vaccinate people out of turn at the parallel vaccination centre, authorities from the Assam health department said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-link-between-5g-and-covid-19-as-its-testing-not-yet-started-says-indian-government-384455" hreflang="en">No link between 5G and COVID-19 as its testing not yet started, says Indian government</a>

This centre was being supervised by health worker Swarnajit Paul and senior nurse Sarbani Roy. When the authorities reached the centre, they found more than 100 used empty syringes and a few empty vials of the Covishield vaccine.

Suspicions were raised when a crowd was spotted in a room in the hospital. Upon investigation, Roy and Paul admitted to the crime of administering vaccines to unregistered locals, but they also claimed to be following an order from senior officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/existing-vaccines-effective-against-variant-from-india-who-official-384447" hreflang="en">Existing vaccines effective against variant from India: WHO official</a>

"We vaccinated around 50 people on Monday and 30 people today. I received vaccine vials from a health worker but I don’t know his name. I am a single mother and I have to feed my family with this job. I don’t know if this is legal or not," Surbani Roy said.

Swaranjit Paul, however, claimed the vials used were the ones that were to go to waste as per the guidelines of the waste management scheme. "At least 10% of vaccines get wasted during the process of vaccination, we are allowed to vaccinate people from the half-used vials of vaccine. We started this process on Saturday under waste management but later some new vials were used," he said.

Authorities have assured locals that action against those involved will be taken within 24 hours.

A group of health workers in India’s northeastern state of Assam is being questioned about running a vaccine centre that is allegedly unauthorised. The vaccination centre was set up at Silchar civil hospital in Assam without completing and following the required process and the health workers had been charging nearly INR 2,000 for each dose.

A group of health workers in India’s northeastern state of Assam is being questioned about running a vaccine centre that is allegedly unauthorised. The vaccination centre was set up at Silchar civil hospital in Assam without completing and following the required process and the health workers had been charging nearly INR 2,000 for each dose. Also read | US mulls joint production of Johnson & Johnson Covid jabs with India In addition to unauthorised establishment and charging more than the set price, the group has also been accused of not recording details of at least 80 people who had been administered the first shot of Covidshield vaccine. Nearly 10 vaccine vials were issued in the name of Urban Health Center but were actually used to vaccinate people out of turn at the parallel vaccination centre, authorities from the Assam health department said. Also read | No link between 5G and COVID-19 as its testing not yet started, says Indian government This centre was being supervised by health worker Swarnajit Paul and senior nurse Sarbani Roy. When the authorities reached the centre, they found more than 100 used empty syringes and a few empty vials of the Covishield vaccine. Suspicions were raised when a crowd was spotted in a room in the hospital. Upon investigation, Roy and Paul admitted to the crime of administering vaccines to unregistered locals, but they also claimed to be following an order from senior officials. Also read | Existing vaccines effective against variant from India: WHO official "We vaccinated around 50 people on Monday and 30 people today. I received vaccine vials from a health worker but I don’t know his name. I am a single mother and I have to feed my family with this job. I don’t know if this is legal or not," Surbani Roy said. Swaranjit Paul, however, claimed the vials used were the ones that were to go to waste as per the guidelines of the waste management scheme. "At least 10% of vaccines get wasted during the process of vaccination, we are allowed to vaccinate people from the half-used vials of vaccine. We started this process on Saturday under waste management but later some new vials were used," he said. Authorities have assured locals that action against those involved will be taken within 24 hours.

India: Health workers administering Covishield at unauthorised vaccine centre busted

Adar Poonawalla, the CEO of Serum Institute of India made a startling claim in an interview to a UK newspaper. In the interview, Poonawalla said that he received 'threats' from powerful people for delivery of vaccines. Serum Institute of India is largest vaccine-maker in the world and is manufacturing Covishield, the vaccine developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca. SII is based in Pune.

Poonawalla is currently in the UK. He also hinted at starting a new vaccine production unit in the UK.

"Had an excellent meeting with all our partners &amp; stakeholders in the U.K. Meanwhile, pleased to state that COVISHIELD’s production is in full swing in Pune. I look forward to reviewing operations upon my return in a few days," he tweeted on Saturday.

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Had an excellent meeting with all our partners &amp; stakeholders in the U.K. Meanwhile, pleased to state that COVISHIELD’s production is in full swing in Pune. I look forward to reviewing operations upon my return in a few days.
— Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) <a href="https://twitter.com/adarpoonawalla/status/1388559173219016704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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SII was centre of controversy in India a few days ago over the issue of pricing.

There is a massive vaccine shortage in India and while the government has made everyone above the age of 18 eligible for vaccination, several Indian states have had to delay commencement of vaccination drive or suspend it temporarily. 
&nbsp;

Adar Poonawalla, the CEO of Serum Institute of India made a startling claim in an interview to a UK newspaper. In the interview, Poonawalla said that he received 'threats' from powerful people for delivery of vaccines.

Adar Poonawalla, the CEO of Serum Institute of India made a startling claim in an interview to a UK newspaper. In the interview, Poonawalla said that he received 'threats' from powerful people for delivery of vaccines. Serum Institute of India is largest vaccine-maker in the world and is manufacturing Covishield, the vaccine developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca. SII is based in Pune. Poonawalla is currently in the UK. He also hinted at starting a new vaccine production unit in the UK. "Had an excellent meeting with all our partners & stakeholders in the U.K. Meanwhile, pleased to state that COVISHIELD’s production is in full swing in Pune. I look forward to reviewing operations upon my return in a few days," he tweeted on Saturday. Had an excellent meeting with all our partners & stakeholders in the U.K. Meanwhile, pleased to state that COVISHIELD’s production is in full swing in Pune. I look forward to reviewing operations upon my return in a few days. — Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) May 1, 2021 × SII was centre of controversy in India a few days ago over the issue of pricing. There is a massive vaccine shortage in India and while the government has made everyone above the age of 18 eligible for vaccination, several Indian states have had to delay commencement of vaccination drive or suspend it temporarily.

'I received threats', says Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla

Serum Institute of India CEO Aadar Poonawalla has said that the production of COVID-19 vaccine Covishield is in full swing in Pune and he will review the operations once he is back in the country.

Poonawalla is currently in the UK to meet his family members.

"Had an excellent meeting with all our partners &amp; stakeholders in the UK. Meanwhile, pleased to state that COVISHIELD's production is in full swing in Pune. I look forward to reviewing operations upon my return in a few days," Poonawalla said in a tweet.

India rolled out the third phase of its COVID-19 vaccination drive for those in the age group of 18-45 years on Saturday though the inoculation process failed to take off in some states due to a shortage of vaccines.

While Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Jammu and Kashmir among other states and union territories launched the vaccination drive, Karnataka and Odisha made only a symbolic start to it.

Poonawalla on Saturday had spoken out about the pressures he was under over the production of COVID-19 vaccines to meet the ever-increasing demand in India as the country battles through a devastating second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

In his first comments since he was provided with Y category security by the government earlier this week, Poonawalla told 'The Times' in an interview about receiving aggressive calls from some of the most powerful people in India, demanding supplies of Covishield -- the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine that the Serum Institute is producing in India.

That pressure is largely behind his decision to fly into London to be with his wife and children, the 40-year-old entrepreneur had said.

The businessman indicated in the interview that his move to London is also linked to business plans to expand vaccine manufacturing to countries outside India, which may include the likes of the UK.

Last week, SII announced a cut in the price of the jab it plans to sell to states to Rs 300 per dose from the earlier Rs 400.

The price cut came after widespread criticism of its pricing policy as it had sold the initial doses of Covishield to the central government at Rs 150 per dose. 
 
Covishield is the most used COVID-19 vaccine in India. It along with Bharat Biotech's Covaxin is being used by the government for vaccination in the country.&nbsp;

Serum Institute of India CEO Aadar Poonawalla has said that the production of COVID-19 vaccine Covishield is in full swing in Pune and he will review the operations once he is back in the country.

Serum Institute of India CEO Aadar Poonawalla has said that the production of COVID-19 vaccine Covishield is in full swing in Pune and he will review the operations once he is back in the country. Poonawalla is currently in the UK to meet his family members. "Had an excellent meeting with all our partners & stakeholders in the UK. Meanwhile, pleased to state that COVISHIELD's production is in full swing in Pune. I look forward to reviewing operations upon my return in a few days," Poonawalla said in a tweet. India rolled out the third phase of its COVID-19 vaccination drive for those in the age group of 18-45 years on Saturday though the inoculation process failed to take off in some states due to a shortage of vaccines. While Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Jammu and Kashmir among other states and union territories launched the vaccination drive, Karnataka and Odisha made only a symbolic start to it. Poonawalla on Saturday had spoken out about the pressures he was under over the production of COVID-19 vaccines to meet the ever-increasing demand in India as the country battles through a devastating second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. In his first comments since he was provided with Y category security by the government earlier this week, Poonawalla told 'The Times' in an interview about receiving aggressive calls from some of the most powerful people in India, demanding supplies of Covishield -- the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine that the Serum Institute is producing in India. That pressure is largely behind his decision to fly into London to be with his wife and children, the 40-year-old entrepreneur had said. The businessman indicated in the interview that his move to London is also linked to business plans to expand vaccine manufacturing to countries outside India, which may include the likes of the UK. Last week, SII announced a cut in the price of the jab it plans to sell to states to Rs 300 per dose from the earlier Rs 400. The price cut came after widespread criticism of its pricing policy as it had sold the initial doses of Covishield to the central government at Rs 150 per dose. Covishield is the most used COVID-19 vaccine in India. It along with Bharat Biotech's Covaxin is being used by the government for vaccination in the country.

COVID-19: Covishield production in full swing in Pune, says Poonawalla

Bharat Biotech on Thursday announced that the price of its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine </a>Covaxin will be reduced by Rs 200 (USD 2.7) for Indian states and will be available at Rs 400 (USD 5.4) per dose.

The announcement by the Indian drugmaker comes a day after the Serum Institute of India (SII) also lowered its Covid-19 vaccine Covishield price to Rs 300 (USD 4.05) per dose for state governments in a move it described as a "philanthropic gesture".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-expats-hire-private-jets-to-escape-covid-19-crisis-381339/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Covaxin is the Indian vaccine of Bharat Biotech-ICMR and Covishield is the name of AstraZeneca-Oxford University's drug manufactured in India.&nbsp;

"Recognising the enormous challenges to the public health care system, we have made Covaxin available to state governments at a price of Rs 400/ dose," Bharat Biotech said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/private-jets-in-demand-indians-flee-the-country-fly-to-uae-to-escape-covid-surge-381327">Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge</a>

India is currently struggling with the fresh wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19 </a>and is witnessing record cases on a daily basis.&nbsp;

The country is also facing a shortage of drugs, medical supplies, oxygen and vaccines, but several countries have come forward to solve the crisis.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India from May 1 will begin its new phase of vaccination drive in which all people over the age of 18 will be permitted to get inoculation. 
&nbsp;

Bharat Biotech on Thursday announced that the price of its coronavirus vaccine Covaxin will be reduced by Rs 200 (USD 2.7) for Indian states and will be available at Rs 400 (USD 5.

Bharat Biotech on Thursday announced that the price of its coronavirus vaccine Covaxin will be reduced by Rs 200 (USD 2.7) for Indian states and will be available at Rs 400 (USD 5.4) per dose. The announcement by the Indian drugmaker comes a day after the Serum Institute of India (SII) also lowered its Covid-19 vaccine Covishield price to Rs 300 (USD 4.05) per dose for state governments in a move it described as a "philanthropic gesture". Watch | Covaxin is the Indian vaccine of Bharat Biotech-ICMR and Covishield is the name of AstraZeneca-Oxford University's drug manufactured in India. "Recognising the enormous challenges to the public health care system, we have made Covaxin available to state governments at a price of Rs 400/ dose," Bharat Biotech said in a statement. Also read | Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge India is currently struggling with the fresh wave of Covid-19 and is witnessing record cases on a daily basis. The country is also facing a shortage of drugs, medical supplies, oxygen and vaccines, but several countries have come forward to solve the crisis. Meanwhile, India from May 1 will begin its new phase of vaccination drive in which all people over the age of 18 will be permitted to get inoculation.

Bharat Biotech reduces price of Covaxin for Indian state governments

Amid a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;cases in India, the CEO of Serum Institute of India (SII) said it will reduce the price of the Covishield vaccine by INR 100.

The price of the vaccine has been reduced from 400 rupees to 300 per dose for all Indian states, said an announcement by Adar Poonawalla on Wednesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/science/people-with-o-blood-group-more-vulnerable-to-covid-19-csir-381106">People with 'O' blood group more vulnerable to COVID-19: CSIR</a>

"As a philanthropic gesture on behalf of @SerumInstIndia, I hereby reduce the price to the states from Rs.400 to Rs.300 per dose, effective immediately; this will save thousands of crores of state funds going forward. This will enable more vaccinations and save countless lives," he tweeted.

<o:p></o:p>

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As a philanthropic gesture on behalf of <a href="https://twitter.com/SerumInstIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SerumInstIndia</a>, I hereby reduce the price to the states from Rs.400 to Rs.300 per dose, effective immediately; this will save thousands of crores of state funds going forward. This will enable more vaccinations and save countless lives.
- Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) <a href="https://twitter.com/adarpoonawalla/status/1387379373452390409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the company had announced a price of INR 400 for all state governments and INR 600 per dose for private hospitals. The company is one of the biggest producers of coronavirus vaccines in the world right now.<o:p></o:p>

This announcement has come after it was reported that the central government had asked SII to reduce the price of the coronavirus vaccine, while some states also accused Poonawalla of profiteering from a pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases in India, the CEO of Serum Institute of India (SII) said it will reduce the price of the Covishield vaccine by INR 100. The price of the vaccine has been reduced from 400 rupees to 300 per dose for all Indian states, said an announcement by Adar Poonawalla on Wednesday.

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases in India, the CEO of Serum Institute of India (SII) said it will reduce the price of the Covishield vaccine by INR 100. The price of the vaccine has been reduced from 400 rupees to 300 per dose for all Indian states, said an announcement by Adar Poonawalla on Wednesday. Also read | People with 'O' blood group more vulnerable to COVID-19: CSIR "As a philanthropic gesture on behalf of @SerumInstIndia, I hereby reduce the price to the states from Rs.400 to Rs.300 per dose, effective immediately; this will save thousands of crores of state funds going forward. This will enable more vaccinations and save countless lives," he tweeted. As a philanthropic gesture on behalf of @SerumInstIndia, I hereby reduce the price to the states from Rs.400 to Rs.300 per dose, effective immediately; this will save thousands of crores of state funds going forward. This will enable more vaccinations and save countless lives. - Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) April 28, 2021 × Earlier, the company had announced a price of INR 400 for all state governments and INR 600 per dose for private hospitals. The company is one of the biggest producers of coronavirus vaccines in the world right now. This announcement has come after it was reported that the central government had asked SII to reduce the price of the coronavirus vaccine, while some states also accused Poonawalla of profiteering from a pandemic.

After row, Serum Institute cuts price of its Covid vaccine to 300 rupees for states as 'philanthropic gesture'

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday received his first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine at an Ottawa pharmacy, telling reporters "I'm very excited" as the needle entered his arm.

Afterwards he posed for television cameras and photographers with his thumbs up and then watched as his wife Sophie received her first shot. Sophie came down with a mild case of the coronavirus at the start of the pandemic last year.

(More details awaited)

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday received his first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine at an Ottawa pharmacy, telling reporters "I'm very excited" as the needle entered his arm.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday received his first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine at an Ottawa pharmacy, telling reporters "I'm very excited" as the needle entered his arm. Afterwards he posed for television cameras and photographers with his thumbs up and then watched as his wife Sophie received her first shot. Sophie came down with a mild case of the coronavirus at the start of the pandemic last year. (More details awaited)

Canadian PM Trudeau receives first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine

The Indian government on Wednesday said 0.03 per cent of people tested positive for coronavirus after taking the second dose of Covishield, while 0.04 per cent contracted the virus after receiving the second jab of Covaxin.&nbsp;

Covishield and Covaxin were the first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccines </a>that New Delhi approved to begin its nationwide vaccination drive.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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While Covishield is AstraZeneca-Oxford University' vaccine prepared by Serum Institute of India, Covaxin has been prepared by India's ICMR and Bharat Biotech.&nbsp;

ICMR Director General Balram Bhargava in a press conference said 0.04 per cent of 17,37,178 individuals, contracted the deadly virus after receiving the second dose of Covaxin.

He added that 0.03 per cent of 1,57,32,754 people who received the second dose of Covishield tested positive.&nbsp;

Over 21,000 people contracted coronavirus after taking the first jab of either Covishield or Covaxin, while 5,500 got infected after taking the second dose.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/serum-institute-fixes-covishield-vaccine-prices-rs-400-for-govt-hospitals-rs-600-for-private-378966">Serum Institute fixes Covishield vaccine prices: Rs 400 for govt hospitals, Rs 600 for private</a>

The official said that so far 100 million people have taken the first jab of Covishield, and 17,145 or 2 per 10,000 people contracted the virus.&nbsp;

As many as 9.3 million people took the first jab of Covaxin and out of that 4,208 (0.04 per cent) contracted Covid-19, the ICMR director-general said.&nbsp;

"This is a very small number and not at all worrisome. Secondly, the highly transmissible second wave also contribute minuscule to the percentage so this could have been even zero per cent," Bhargava said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Indian government on Wednesday said 0.03 per cent of people tested positive for coronavirus after taking the second dose of Covishield, while 0.04 per cent contracted the virus after receiving the second jab of Covaxin.

The Indian government on Wednesday said 0.03 per cent of people tested positive for coronavirus after taking the second dose of Covishield, while 0.04 per cent contracted the virus after receiving the second jab of Covaxin. Covishield and Covaxin were the first coronavirus vaccines that New Delhi approved to begin its nationwide vaccination drive. Watch | While Covishield is AstraZeneca-Oxford University' vaccine prepared by Serum Institute of India, Covaxin has been prepared by India's ICMR and Bharat Biotech. ICMR Director General Balram Bhargava in a press conference said 0.04 per cent of 17,37,178 individuals, contracted the deadly virus after receiving the second dose of Covaxin. He added that 0.03 per cent of 1,57,32,754 people who received the second dose of Covishield tested positive. Over 21,000 people contracted coronavirus after taking the first jab of either Covishield or Covaxin, while 5,500 got infected after taking the second dose. Also read | Serum Institute fixes Covishield vaccine prices: Rs 400 for govt hospitals, Rs 600 for private The official said that so far 100 million people have taken the first jab of Covishield, and 17,145 or 2 per 10,000 people contracted the virus. As many as 9.3 million people took the first jab of Covaxin and out of that 4,208 (0.04 per cent) contracted Covid-19, the ICMR director-general said. "This is a very small number and not at all worrisome. Secondly, the highly transmissible second wave also contribute minuscule to the percentage so this could have been even zero per cent," Bhargava said.

0.03% contracted Covid-19 after receiving second jab of Covishield; 0.04% post Covaxin

Serum Institute of India (SII) said it will charge state governments at Rs 400&nbsp;($5.30)&nbsp;and private hospitals Rs 600 ($7.95) for one dose of its Covishield COVID-19 vaccine.

This comes after the Union government said that 50 per cent of the vaccines from May 1 will be directed to the Union government for procurement and the remaining will be sold to states and in the open market.&nbsp;

“For the next two months, we will address the limited capacity by scaling up the vaccine production. Going ahead, 50 per cent&nbsp;of our capacities will be served to the Government of India's vaccination program, and the remaining 50 per cent of the capacity will be for the State governments and private hospitals.” the Serum Institute said in the statement.

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Everyone above 18 years of age will be eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19 from May 1, the Centre had announced on April 19 as it liberalised the vaccination drive to allow states, private hospitals and industrial establishments to procure the doses directly from manufacturers.

India has been in the grips of the second wave of infections blamed on a new "double mutant" virus variant, adding almost 3.5 million new cases this month alone.

In an address to the nation on Tuesday night, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country of 1.3 billion people was "once again fighting a big fight".

"The situation was under control till a few weeks back, and then this second corona wave came like a storm," PM Modi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Serum Institute of India (SII) said it will charge state governments at Rs 400 ($5.30) and private hospitals Rs 600 ($7.95) for one dose of its Covishield COVID-19 vaccine.

Serum Institute of India (SII) said it will charge state governments at Rs 400 ($5.30) and private hospitals Rs 600 ($7.95) for one dose of its Covishield COVID-19 vaccine. This comes after the Union government said that 50 per cent of the vaccines from May 1 will be directed to the Union government for procurement and the remaining will be sold to states and in the open market. “For the next two months, we will address the limited capacity by scaling up the vaccine production. Going ahead, 50 per cent of our capacities will be served to the Government of India's vaccination program, and the remaining 50 per cent of the capacity will be for the State governments and private hospitals.” the Serum Institute said in the statement. IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT pic.twitter.com/bTsMs8AKth — SerumInstituteIndia (@SerumInstIndia) April 21, 2021 × Everyone above 18 years of age will be eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19 from May 1, the Centre had announced on April 19 as it liberalised the vaccination drive to allow states, private hospitals and industrial establishments to procure the doses directly from manufacturers. India has been in the grips of the second wave of infections blamed on a new "double mutant" virus variant, adding almost 3.5 million new cases this month alone. In an address to the nation on Tuesday night, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country of 1.3 billion people was "once again fighting a big fight". "The situation was under control till a few weeks back, and then this second corona wave came like a storm," PM Modi said. (With inputs from agencies)

Serum Institute fixes Covishield vaccine prices: Rs 400 for govt hospitals, Rs 600 for private

Russia's Sputnik V vaccine has been cleared for emergency use in India amid a record spike in COVID-19 cases. An expert committee approved the restricted use of the Russian vaccine.

Russia's Sputnik V vaccine cleared for emergency use in India

India has granted emergency use approval to the Russian Sputnik V against the Coronavirus. After Covishield and Covaxin, Sputnik V became the third vaccine approved by the country against COVID-19.

India gives green signal to Russian vaccine Sputnik V

Bhutan on Wednesday said it had given about 60 per cent of its entire population the first jab against Covid-19 since the Himalayan kingdom started an ambitious vaccination drive nine days ago.

The tiny nation wedged between India and China told AFP that 470,000 people out of 770,000 in total had been administered the first shot of a two-dose regime of the Covishield vaccine (Oxford Astrazeneca) donated by India.

Its rapid rollout puts Bhutan far ahead of other leading nations in reaching the 60-per cent mark, including Seychelles, Israel and the United Arab Emirates, according to AFP analysis.

When Bhutan's campaign launched on March 27, it set the speedy target of vaccinating 533,000 adults -- having excluded pregnant women, new mothers, people with certain health conditions and seriously ill patients -- in just one week.

However, the nation, famous for measuring gross national happiness, extended its deadline by several weeks.

A health ministry spokeswoman said that healthcare officers were now focusing on vaccinating those above 70 as well as disabled residents.&nbsp;

The country has recorded 896 Covid-19 infections and one death so far.

Israel has set the world's leading pace per capita for vaccinations in a two-dose regime, having already given both shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to more than half of its population.

Bhutan on Wednesday said it had given about 60 per cent of its entire population the first jab against Covid-19 since the Himalayan kingdom started an ambitious vaccination drive nine days ago.

Bhutan on Wednesday said it had given about 60 per cent of its entire population the first jab against Covid-19 since the Himalayan kingdom started an ambitious vaccination drive nine days ago. The tiny nation wedged between India and China told AFP that 470,000 people out of 770,000 in total had been administered the first shot of a two-dose regime of the Covishield vaccine (Oxford Astrazeneca) donated by India. Its rapid rollout puts Bhutan far ahead of other leading nations in reaching the 60-per cent mark, including Seychelles, Israel and the United Arab Emirates, according to AFP analysis. When Bhutan's campaign launched on March 27, it set the speedy target of vaccinating 533,000 adults -- having excluded pregnant women, new mothers, people with certain health conditions and seriously ill patients -- in just one week. However, the nation, famous for measuring gross national happiness, extended its deadline by several weeks. A health ministry spokeswoman said that healthcare officers were now focusing on vaccinating those above 70 as well as disabled residents. The country has recorded 896 Covid-19 infections and one death so far. Israel has set the world's leading pace per capita for vaccinations in a two-dose regime, having already given both shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to more than half of its population.

Bhutan vaccinates 60% of the population with Covishield in record time

India has said that it’s going ahead with administering the AstraZeneca <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-china-lost-vaccine-race-to-india-371258">vaccine</a> as it has seen no signs that the vaccine causes blood clots in recipients.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-safe-are-made-in-china-vaccines-371239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The announcement comes as many European countries suspended the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine amid growing concerns that blood clots may be a possible side effect.

"Covishield implementation, Covishield vaccination in the country will go on with full vigour but at the same time we are mindful of the fact to address this concern as an ongoing activity based on the data available to us as well as we are watching the information being made available by other sources but today there is no concern at all in regard to Covishield," &nbsp;Dr Vinod Paul, member of the Niti Aayog said

The Indian government has said that the health ministry was aware of reports of potential clotting issue, however, the planning commission made it clear that as of now there were no health concerns regarding the vaccine.

AstraZeneca vaccines are being made in India in collaboration with the Serum Institute of India(SII). The coronavirus vaccine is known as Covishield in India.

In <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-28903-new-coronavirus-cases-188-deaths-in-last-24-hrs-371042">India</a>, infections have jumped sharply in several parts of the country with confirmed cases in 125 districts jumping by 100-150 per cent in the past two weeks.

India has reported over 35,000 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-may-become-seasonal-un-says-371298">COVID-19</a> cases and 172 coronavirus related deaths in the last 24 hours. The country's total case count has risen to 11.4 million - the third-highest number in the world behind the United States and Brazil.

India has so far administered 37 million vaccine doses across the country, the majority of them being AstraZeneca jabs.

Denmark was the first country to suspend the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine followed by other European nations, including Italy, France and Germany. However, both the European Medicines Association and the World Health Organisation have said that it is only a precautionary measure.

According to the health agencies, there is currently no evidence to suggest a link between getting the vaccine and the blood clots.&nbsp;

India has said that it’s going ahead with administering the AstraZeneca vaccine as it has seen no signs that the vaccine causes blood clots in recipients. Watch: The announcement comes as many European countries suspended the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine amid growing concerns that blood clots may be a possible side effect.

India has said that it’s going ahead with administering the AstraZeneca vaccine as it has seen no signs that the vaccine causes blood clots in recipients. Watch: The announcement comes as many European countries suspended the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine amid growing concerns that blood clots may be a possible side effect. "Covishield implementation, Covishield vaccination in the country will go on with full vigour but at the same time we are mindful of the fact to address this concern as an ongoing activity based on the data available to us as well as we are watching the information being made available by other sources but today there is no concern at all in regard to Covishield," Dr Vinod Paul, member of the Niti Aayog said The Indian government has said that the health ministry was aware of reports of potential clotting issue, however, the planning commission made it clear that as of now there were no health concerns regarding the vaccine. AstraZeneca vaccines are being made in India in collaboration with the Serum Institute of India(SII). The coronavirus vaccine is known as Covishield in India. In India, infections have jumped sharply in several parts of the country with confirmed cases in 125 districts jumping by 100-150 per cent in the past two weeks. India has reported over 35,000 new COVID-19 cases and 172 coronavirus related deaths in the last 24 hours. The country's total case count has risen to 11.4 million - the third-highest number in the world behind the United States and Brazil. India has so far administered 37 million vaccine doses across the country, the majority of them being AstraZeneca jabs. Denmark was the first country to suspend the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine followed by other European nations, including Italy, France and Germany. However, both the European Medicines Association and the World Health Organisation have said that it is only a precautionary measure. According to the health agencies, there is currently no evidence to suggest a link between getting the vaccine and the blood clots.

Covishield vaccination will go on with full vigour: India

The Centre on Thursday said Bharat Biotech's indigenously developed Covaxin is out of the "clinical trial mode" and that it has now been granted the regular restricted emergency use authorisation just like Covishield manufactured by Serum Institute.

Addressing a weekly press conference, NITI Aayog member (Health) Dr V K Paul said Covaxin and Covishield have the same licensure status now.

"The condition of it (Covaxin) being required to be administered under clinical trial mode is no more there," Paul said.

"Both the COVID-19 vaccines Covaxin and Covishield have the same licensure status. It has already being given to around 19 lakh people. Covaxin has stood the test of time in terms of great safety. Only 311 individuals had minimal side effects. It is the triumph for India's research and development enterprise and science and technology enterprise," he said.

India's drug regulator on January 3 had granted permission for the restricted use of Covaxin in emergency situations in the public interest as an abundant precaution, in clinical trial mode, especially in case of infection by mutant strains.

The Subject Expert Panel on COVID-19 of the CDSCO had recommended granting emergency use authorisation to Bharat Biotech's indigenously developed Covaxin while removing the condition for the vaccine to be administered in "clinical trial mode".

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) in a communique to Bharat Biotech said, "Accordingly, based on the recommendations of the SEC, the condition, 'this permission is for restricted use in emergency situation in public interest as an abundant precaution in clinical trial mode' in the permission is amended to read as this permission is for restricted use in emergency situation in public interest."

"However, you are required to continue ongoing phase-3 clinical trial as per approved clinical trial protocol and submit revised summary of product characteristics, prescribing information and fact sheet," it said.

Replying to a question whether the government has a timeline in mind for phase 3 vaccination drive and who gets included in that, Paul said, "We are now focused on the relatively large group of individuals above the age of 60 as well as those aged 45- 60 with comorbidities. We are building a momentum to cover this significantly large group."

"We will see progress and moving forward, yes, further increase in the circle of those who are eligible will be considered," Paul said.

The Centre on Thursday said Bharat Biotech's indigenously developed Covaxin is out of the "clinical trial mode" and that it has now been granted the regular restricted emergency use authorisation just like Covishield manufactured by Serum Institute.

The Centre on Thursday said Bharat Biotech's indigenously developed Covaxin is out of the "clinical trial mode" and that it has now been granted the regular restricted emergency use authorisation just like Covishield manufactured by Serum Institute. Addressing a weekly press conference, NITI Aayog member (Health) Dr V K Paul said Covaxin and Covishield have the same licensure status now. "The condition of it (Covaxin) being required to be administered under clinical trial mode is no more there," Paul said. "Both the COVID-19 vaccines Covaxin and Covishield have the same licensure status. It has already being given to around 19 lakh people. Covaxin has stood the test of time in terms of great safety. Only 311 individuals had minimal side effects. It is the triumph for India's research and development enterprise and science and technology enterprise," he said. India's drug regulator on January 3 had granted permission for the restricted use of Covaxin in emergency situations in the public interest as an abundant precaution, in clinical trial mode, especially in case of infection by mutant strains. The Subject Expert Panel on COVID-19 of the CDSCO had recommended granting emergency use authorisation to Bharat Biotech's indigenously developed Covaxin while removing the condition for the vaccine to be administered in "clinical trial mode". The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) in a communique to Bharat Biotech said, "Accordingly, based on the recommendations of the SEC, the condition, 'this permission is for restricted use in emergency situation in public interest as an abundant precaution in clinical trial mode' in the permission is amended to read as this permission is for restricted use in emergency situation in public interest." "However, you are required to continue ongoing phase-3 clinical trial as per approved clinical trial protocol and submit revised summary of product characteristics, prescribing information and fact sheet," it said. Replying to a question whether the government has a timeline in mind for phase 3 vaccination drive and who gets included in that, Paul said, "We are now focused on the relatively large group of individuals above the age of 60 as well as those aged 45- 60 with comorbidities. We are building a momentum to cover this significantly large group." "We will see progress and moving forward, yes, further increase in the circle of those who are eligible will be considered," Paul said.

Covaxin out of clinical trial mode, granted restricted emergency use authorisation

Nepal on Sunday received the one million doses of Covishield vaccine it bought from India's Serum Institute, in a major boost to the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield is being manufactured by Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII) which has collaborated with Oxford University and pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca for making the vaccine.

An Air India aircraft carrying the consignment of COVID-19 vaccines landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport in the morning, according to sources at the Indian Embassy in Nepal.

The Nepal government has decided to procure a total of two million doses of the vaccine manufactured by the SII. Last month, India gifted one million doses of Covishield vaccine to Nepal.

The Nepal government has already started administering the vaccines on health workers, security personnel and journalists on priority basis.

It is planning to soon start a vaccine rollout for elderly citizens, according to the Health Ministry.

Nepal has so far reported 2,73,431 COVID-19 cases and 2,061 fatalities.

India is one of the world's biggest drugmakers and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring coronavirus vaccines.

India has sent consignments of domestically produced coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Mauritius and Seychelles.

It is also undertaking commercial supplies of the doses to a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and Morocco.

Nepal on Sunday received the one million doses of Covishield vaccine it bought from India's Serum Institute, in a major boost to the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nepal on Sunday received the one million doses of Covishield vaccine it bought from India's Serum Institute, in a major boost to the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield is being manufactured by Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII) which has collaborated with Oxford University and pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca for making the vaccine. An Air India aircraft carrying the consignment of COVID-19 vaccines landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport in the morning, according to sources at the Indian Embassy in Nepal. The Nepal government has decided to procure a total of two million doses of the vaccine manufactured by the SII. Last month, India gifted one million doses of Covishield vaccine to Nepal. The Nepal government has already started administering the vaccines on health workers, security personnel and journalists on priority basis. It is planning to soon start a vaccine rollout for elderly citizens, according to the Health Ministry. Nepal has so far reported 2,73,431 COVID-19 cases and 2,061 fatalities. India is one of the world's biggest drugmakers and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring coronavirus vaccines. India has sent consignments of domestically produced coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Mauritius and Seychelles. It is also undertaking commercial supplies of the doses to a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and Morocco.

Nepal gets 1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine bought from India

Argentina received 580,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine Covishield on Wednesday (February 17). Manufactured by India's Serum Institute and developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University, the consignment brought the country a step closer to launching a large-scale vaccination programme.

Argentina receives 580,000 doses of COVID vaccine from India's Serum Institute

China will donate three lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses to Sri Lanka, stepping up its vaccine diplomacy in South Asia as India rushed its domestically manufactured coronavirus vaccines to several countries in the subcontinent as well as across the globe.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday thanked India for its generosity after he received five lakh doses of Covishield vaccine gifted by New Delhi under the 'Neighbourhood First' policy.

"China will donate three lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses to Sri Lanka to jointly fight the COVID-19 pandemic," state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Wednesday, citing a statement from the Chinese embassy in Colombo.

China made the decision after a recent request by the Lankan government, it said.

The jabs manufactured by the China National Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd (Sinopharm) are expected to be handed over to the Lankan side in mid-February.

A number of countries in the subcontinent including Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, where Beijing has substantial investments, caught China by surprise by opting for Indian vaccines.

So far, India has sent consignments of coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Seychelles, Myanmar and Mauritius.

India is one of the world's biggest drug-makers and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring the coronavirus vaccines.

It is also undertaking commercial supplies of the doses to a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and Morocco.

India has also rushed two million doses of Covishield vaccine to Brazil on the request of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

Meanwhile, Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's senior advisor Lalith Weeratunga told journalists in Colombo on Wednesday that the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) was conducting tests on the Sinopharm vaccine and once clearance is obtained from them, the vaccine could be used under an emergency basis, the Xinhua report said.

Separately, China has offered to step-up cooperation to Maldives to control the pandemic.

On January 26, Vice Foreign Minister Luo Zhaohui co-hosted the 7th round of China-Maldives diplomatic consultations with Maldivian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel via video link.

Luo Zhaohui said China and Maldives supported each other, effectively contained the virus spread in their countries, and actively promoted economic recovery.

Both sides need to make continuous efforts to push forward their bilateral relations, a Chinese Foreign Ministry statement said.

China will donate three lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses to Sri Lanka, stepping up its vaccine diplomacy in South Asia as India rushed its domestically manufactured coronavirus vaccines to several countries in the subcontinent as well as across the globe.

China will donate three lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses to Sri Lanka, stepping up its vaccine diplomacy in South Asia as India rushed its domestically manufactured coronavirus vaccines to several countries in the subcontinent as well as across the globe. Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday thanked India for its generosity after he received five lakh doses of Covishield vaccine gifted by New Delhi under the 'Neighbourhood First' policy. "China will donate three lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses to Sri Lanka to jointly fight the COVID-19 pandemic," state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Wednesday, citing a statement from the Chinese embassy in Colombo. China made the decision after a recent request by the Lankan government, it said. The jabs manufactured by the China National Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd (Sinopharm) are expected to be handed over to the Lankan side in mid-February. A number of countries in the subcontinent including Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, where Beijing has substantial investments, caught China by surprise by opting for Indian vaccines. So far, India has sent consignments of coronavirus vaccines under grant assistance to Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Seychelles, Myanmar and Mauritius. India is one of the world's biggest drug-makers and an increasing number of countries have already approached it for procuring the coronavirus vaccines. It is also undertaking commercial supplies of the doses to a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil and Morocco. India has also rushed two million doses of Covishield vaccine to Brazil on the request of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. Meanwhile, Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's senior advisor Lalith Weeratunga told journalists in Colombo on Wednesday that the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) was conducting tests on the Sinopharm vaccine and once clearance is obtained from them, the vaccine could be used under an emergency basis, the Xinhua report said. Separately, China has offered to step-up cooperation to Maldives to control the pandemic. On January 26, Vice Foreign Minister Luo Zhaohui co-hosted the 7th round of China-Maldives diplomatic consultations with Maldivian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel via video link. Luo Zhaohui said China and Maldives supported each other, effectively contained the virus spread in their countries, and actively promoted economic recovery. Both sides need to make continuous efforts to push forward their bilateral relations, a Chinese Foreign Ministry statement said.

Vaccine diplomacy intensifies as China donates Sinovac to Sri Lanka after India supplies Covishield

India will be gifting Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of India made COVID vaccines on Thursday (January 28) on a special Air India plane. It will be the 8th country in the region to get New Delhi's vaccine gift. The gift will ceremonially be handed over by High Commissioner Gopal Baglay at the Bandaranaiake International Airport.

Last week India gifted vaccines to 8 countries-- Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles and Mauritius and sent commercial consignments to 3 countries--Brazil, Morocco and Bangladesh. &nbsp;A release from the Indian high commission in Colombo said, "The gift from India is keeping in line with India’s continued support to Sri Lanka in fighting the COVID pandemic. "

The vaccine, Oxford-Astrazeneca’s Covishield is manufactured by Serum Institute of India. It was approved for use by govt last week. Interestingly, India's vaccine consignment comes to the country on auspicious Duruthu Poya Day and marks the day when Gautama Buddha first visited Sri Lanka.

Amid the pandemic, India has been supplying medicines to many countries in the region including Sri Lanka. In May 2020, India had sent 12.5 tons of medical supplies to the country to deal with the pandemic. Under mission sagar 1, supplies were sent onboard Indian navy ships to 5 Indian ocean countries including Sri Lanka.

India will be gifting Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of India made COVID vaccines on Thursday (January 28) on a special Air India plane. It will be the 8th country in the region to get New Delhi's vaccine gift.

India will be gifting Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of India made COVID vaccines on Thursday (January 28) on a special Air India plane. It will be the 8th country in the region to get New Delhi's vaccine gift. The gift will ceremonially be handed over by High Commissioner Gopal Baglay at the Bandaranaiake International Airport. Last week India gifted vaccines to 8 countries-- Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles and Mauritius and sent commercial consignments to 3 countries--Brazil, Morocco and Bangladesh. A release from the Indian high commission in Colombo said, "The gift from India is keeping in line with India’s continued support to Sri Lanka in fighting the COVID pandemic. " The vaccine, Oxford-Astrazeneca’s Covishield is manufactured by Serum Institute of India. It was approved for use by govt last week. Interestingly, India's vaccine consignment comes to the country on auspicious Duruthu Poya Day and marks the day when Gautama Buddha first visited Sri Lanka. Amid the pandemic, India has been supplying medicines to many countries in the region including Sri Lanka. In May 2020, India had sent 12.5 tons of medical supplies to the country to deal with the pandemic. Under mission sagar 1, supplies were sent onboard Indian navy ships to 5 Indian ocean countries including Sri Lanka.

India to gift Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of COVID vaccine on Thursday

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