There have been some media reports alleging that expired vaccines are being administered in India under its national COVID-19 vaccination programme. This is false and misleading and based on incomplete information.
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) on 25th October 2021, in response to M/s Bharat Biotech International Limited’s letter no: BBIL/RA/21/567 has approved the extension of shelf life of Covaxin (Whole Virion, Inactivated Coronavirus Vaccine) from 9 months to 12 months. Similarly, the shelf life of Covishield has been extended by the National Regulator from 6 months to 9 months on 22nd February 2021.
The shelf life of vaccines is extended by the National Regulator based on comprehensive analysis and examination of stability study data furnished by the vaccine manufacturers.
#IndiaFightsCorona
Only COVAXIN approved for less than 18 yrs.
18+ (i.e. born in 2004 or before)- are eligible for all vaccines,including COVISHIELD.
For 15-17 years (born in 2005, 2006, 2007) eligible only for COVAXIN.
Validations in place in Co-WIN @PMOIndia@mansukhmandviya— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) January 3, 2022
Covid vaccination for teenagers kickstarts in various cities across the country for children aged between 15 to 18 years, on Monday. The Union Health Ministry had announced that Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin will be administered to eligible children — in two doses 28 days apart.
Meanwhile, India on Monday reported 33,750 fresh Covid-19 cases and 123 deaths. With 10,846 recoveries, the country’s active caseload stood at 1,45,582.
With the administration of 23,30,706 vaccine doses in the last 24 hours, India’s COVID-19 vaccination coverage has exceeded 145.68 Cr (1,45,68,89,306) as per provisional reports till 7 am today. This has been achieved through 1,56,67,018 sessions.
