ForumIAS announcing GS Foundation Program for UPSC CSE 2025-26 from 19 April. Click Here for more information.
ForumIAS Answer Writing Focus Group (AWFG) for Mains 2024 commencing from 24th June 2024. The Entrance Test for the program will be held on 28th April 2024 at 9 AM. To know more about the program visit: https://forumias.com/blog/awfg2024
News: The subject expert committee of Central Drugs Standard Control Organization(CDSCO) has recommended COVID-19 vaccine, Covishield for emergency use authorisation.
Facts:
- COVISHIELD: The Oxford vaccine “AZD1222” is being called Covishield in India. Serum Institute of India(SII) has entered into a manufacturing partnership with Oxford University and Pharma major AstraZeneca to produce this vaccine in India.
- Technology: Covishield is made of a weakened and modified version of adenovirus (a common cold virus) that causes infections in chimpanzees and contains the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus spike protein. After vaccination, the surface spike protein is produced, priming the immune system to attack the SARS-CoV-2 virus if it later infects the body.
- Efficacy: Researchers claimed the vaccine protected against Covid in 62% of those given two full doses and in 90% of those initially given a half dose.
- Safety: The Lancet publication, a leading medical journal has confirmed that the vaccine was well-tolerated and there were no serious safety events confirmed related to the vaccine.
- Storage: The vaccine can be stored, transported and handled at normal refrigerated conditions (2°C to 8°C) for at least six months.
