Healthcare

DCGI approved Covaxin for kids above 12 years; Health Ministry says it's for 18+ adults

Updated : January 15, 2021 12:09 AM IST

A factsheet issued by the Health Ministry recommends Covaxin for those above 18 years of age, which contradicts the earlier DCGI approval which said it's for those above 12.

The Union Health Ministry, in a letter issued on January 14, provided comparative details of the two vaccines – Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and University of Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield which is being manufactured by Serum Institute of India – approved by Drug Controller General of India (DCGI). The factsheet has details of the vaccines, which will be distributed to cold chain points and vaccination centres for ready reference.

However, one glaring point in the letter states that both vaccines are recommended and approved for people above 18 years of age. This contradicts the earlier DCGI approval which said that Bharat Biotech's Covaxin could be administered to those above 12 years of age.

The MoHFW letter – under the subhead ‘Precautions and contraindications for COVID-19 vaccination' reads: "1. Authorised age group: Under the EUA, COVID-19 vaccination is indicated only for 18 years and above. 2. Co-administration of vaccines: If required, COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines should be separated by an interval of at least 14 days. 3. Interchangeability of COVID-19 vaccines is not permitted: Second dose should also be of the same COIVD-19 vaccine which was administered as the first dose.

DCGI approved Covaxin for kids above 12 years; Health Ministry says it's for 18+ adults

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