The AstraZeneca vaccine played an important component in India’s battle against COVID-19. However, you could be thinking, why in India AstraZeneca vaccine have a different name? This post uncovers the background of the “AstraZeneca vaccine name in India” and focuses on the main points of this widely used vaccine shot.
Covishield: The AstraZeneca Vaccine in India.
The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in India is marketed as Covishield. The vaccine is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India (SII), the world’s largest vaccine maker. AstraZeneca partnered with SII to manufacture and distribute the vaccine across India and several other low- and middle-income countries.
Understanding the Code: AZD122
AZD1222 is the name given to the AstraZeneca vaccine for identification during its developmental phases. This alphanumeric code is according to the clinical trial naming convention. For the general public, this code doesn’t hold much significance, researchers or healthcare professionals use this code to refer to the vaccine in specific contexts.
How Does Covishield Work?
Covishield, just like AstraZeneca in other countries, is a viral vector vaccine. It uses a weakened type of common cold virus (adenovirus) that has been modified to carry the genes for the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The Covishield vaccine virus is modified in such a way that when a person receives the vaccine, this modified virus delivers the genetic code of the spike protein into the body’s cells.
The cellular system subsequently generates copies of the spike protein, which in turn serve as the antigens responsible for stimulating the immune system to create antibodies and T-cells that are designed to specifically attack the SARS-COV-2 virus. This immune response is what guarantees the vaccinated person will not develop COVID-19 or have severe symptoms if they catch the disease.
Benefits of Covishield
In India’s fight against COVID-19, Covishield has several advantages:
- Efficacy: The studies reveal that Covishield can prevent symptomatic COVID-19 infections with 70% to 90% efficacy depending upon the variant and the dosage regimen.
- Safety: Covishield is safe to use as there are only minor side effects like pain at the injection site, headache, and fatigue.
- Storage and Transportation: Covishield can easily be stored in a refrigerator, which allows for easy transportation to even remote areas.
- Affordability: The AstraZeneca and SII cooperation has made the availability of the Covishield vaccine possible at a much lower cost as compared to the other COVID-19 vaccines.
Who Should Get Vaccinated with Covishield?
As per the Indian Government’s vaccine policy, Covishield is recommended for all people above 18 years of age. It is given in two doses; the second one is given after a gap of 12-16 weeks.
Important Considerations
As with any vaccine, if you have specific allergies or you are either pregnant or breastfeeding then Covishield is not recommended. In such cases, you must consult your doctor.
Staying Informed
For the latest information and updates on Covishield and COVID-19 vaccination in India, refer to reliable sources such as the website of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Conclusion
Covishield, the AstraZeneca vaccine produced by SII, is India’s most widely used vaccine. Covishield delivers several benefits to its users. I hope you have fulfilled your responsibility of getting vaccinated. Tell us which company’s vaccine you have taken and how was your experience.