In devising a “realistic” roadmap for the distribution of the Covid-19 vaccine, the Union Health Minister, Harsh Vardhan, announced on Sunday that by July 2021 India would receive and use 400-500 million doses for 20 to 25 crore of people. The race for an effective Covid-19 has been heating up with Russia and China already announcing their vaccines, which they are even administering to people. While India works to develop indigenous vaccines, it is also seeking to source vaccines from abroad.
Here’s everything you need to know about the latest developments related to the Covid-19 vaccine
one. As several human trials of Covid-19 are still underway, deployment of the vaccines will only be possible in 2021, several experts have previously noted. The Union Health Minister set a deadline on Sunday in the third quarter of next year.
two. The minister clarified that this July schedule is not for everyone. Around 25 million rupees of India’s 1.3 billion people are likely to get vaccinated at this time.
3. The Center has asked states to submit a list of the priority population that will receive the vaccines first. This includes all doctors, nurses, healthcare personnel, ASHA workers, etc.
Four. The Center had previously said that the price of the vaccine will not be an obstacle. Those who need the vaccine will receive the vaccine first.
5. Reports say the Center may also allow companies to source vaccines directly from manufacturers.
6. States have been asked not to sign any agreements with manufacturers, as the Center is monitoring the entire process.
7. Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, which entered into an agreement with Russia’s sovereign wealth fund for the testing and distribution of Sputnik V, has applied for permission from the Comptroller General of Drugs of India (DCGI) to conduct phase 3 human clinical trials .
.
