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What is the news?
An expert body is looking into Bharat Biotech’s application for testing its Covid-19 vaccine, BBV154. This is an Intranasal Vaccine.
What is Intranasal Vaccine?
- Vaccines are administered as injectable shots into the muscles(intramuscular). Or the tissue just between the skin and the muscles(subcutaneous).
- However, with intranasal vaccines, the solution is sprayed into the nostrils and inhaled instead of injecting it.
Benefits of Intranasal Vaccine:
- The nasal route has excellent potential for vaccination due to the organized immune systems of the nasal mucosa.
- It is non-invasive, Needle-free.
- Ease of administration – does not require trained health care workers.
- Elimination of needle-associated risks (injuries and infections).
- High compliance (Ideally suits for children and adults).
- Reduces the overall cost of a vaccination drive as for example BBV154 requires a single-dose regimen.
Potential Setbacks of Intranasal Vaccine:
- Past attempts to develop intranasal vaccines, including for measles flu, have not been very successful.
- These vaccines use live, weakened viruses, but have never cleared clinical trials.
- Only a live attenuated influenza flu vaccine has been licensed through this route of delivery.
Source: Indian Express
