When will Covaxin be approved by WHO: Latest Updates

✅Covaxin WHO approval: As of now, WHO is in the final review stages; approval is expected soon, boosting global vaccination efforts. Stay tuned!

When will Covaxin be approved by WHO: The latest updates as of October 2023 indicate that Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin is under review by the World Health Organization (WHO) for Emergency Use Listing (EUL). This process involves a thorough evaluation of the vaccine’s safety, efficacy, and manufacturing practices. As per the most recent information, WHO approval for Covaxin is expected to be granted soon, potentially within the next few weeks, as the organization finalizes its assessment.

Covaxin, developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has already been approved for emergency use in several countries, including India. The vaccine has shown promising results in clinical trials, demonstrating an efficacy rate of approximately 78% against symptomatic COVID-19. The approval by WHO would not only bolster global confidence in Covaxin but also facilitate its distribution through international vaccine initiatives such as COVAX.

Key Steps in the WHO Approval Process for Covaxin

The WHO Emergency Use Listing (EUL) process for vaccines is comprehensive and involves several key steps:

• Submission of Dossier: Bharat Biotech has submitted extensive data on Covaxin’s clinical trials, safety, and efficacy to WHO.
• Preliminary Review: WHO conducts a preliminary review to ensure the dossier is complete and meets the necessary requirements.
• Expert Panel Evaluation: A panel of experts rigorously evaluates the data to assess the vaccine’s safety and efficacy.
• Inspection of Manufacturing Facilities: WHO inspectors visit Bharat Biotech’s manufacturing facilities to ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Final Decision: Based on the panel’s evaluation and inspection reports, WHO makes a final decision on granting EUL.

Current Status and Timeline

As per the latest updates, Covaxin has successfully passed the preliminary review and expert panel evaluation stages. WHO inspectors have also completed their visit to Bharat Biotech’s facilities. The final decision is now pending and is expected to be announced shortly. Bharat Biotech has been in constant communication with WHO, addressing any queries and providing additional data as required.

Impact of WHO Approval

The approval of Covaxin by WHO would have significant implications:

1. Global Recognition: It would validate Covaxin’s safety and efficacy, enhancing its acceptance worldwide.
2. Inclusion in COVAX: WHO approval would allow Covaxin to be included in the COVAX initiative, aimed at equitable vaccine distribution globally.
3. Travel Facilitation: Many countries require WHO-approved vaccines for entry, so this approval would facilitate international travel for those vaccinated with Covaxin.

In conclusion, the approval of Covaxin by WHO is imminent, with the final decision expected soon. This milestone would mark a significant achievement for Bharat Biotech and contribute to global vaccination efforts against COVID-19.

Reasons for the Delay in WHO Approval of Covaxin

Let’s delve into the reasons for the delay in World Health Organization (WHO) approval of Covaxin, the indigenous COVID-19 vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech in India.

Covaxin has been widely used in India’s vaccination drive and has shown efficacy against the original strain of the coronavirus and its variants. However, its global acceptance is pending WHO’s approval, raising concerns and questions among the public.

Possible Factors Contributing to the Delay:

• Data Submission: One of the primary reasons for the delay could be the time taken for Bharat Biotech to submit complete data to the WHO for evaluation. Ensuring all necessary information is provided is crucial for the approval process.
• Review Process: The thorough review process by the WHO experts to assess the safety, efficacy, and quality of Covaxin could also be a contributing factor. This meticulous evaluation is essential to guarantee the vaccine’s effectiveness.
• Manufacturing Practices: Compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and other quality standards is paramount for WHO approval. Any discrepancies in manufacturing processes could lead to delays in authorization.

Key Considerations for WHO Approval:

It is crucial for Bharat Biotech to address any concerns raised by the WHO promptly and provide all necessary data and documentation for a comprehensive review. Transparency and cooperation with the WHO are vital for expediting the approval process.

Once Covaxin receives WHO approval, it can significantly enhance global vaccination efforts, particularly in low- and middle-income countries that rely on affordable vaccines to combat the pandemic.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on WHO’s decision regarding Covaxin as the world awaits the official approval of this promising COVID-19 vaccine.

Impact of WHO Approval on Global Vaccine Distribution

Understanding the impact of WHO Approval on Global Vaccine Distribution is crucial in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Health Organization plays a vital role in assessing the safety, efficacy, and quality of vaccines, providing guidance to countries worldwide.

Once Covaxin receives the WHO approval, it will significantly boost the global vaccination efforts. Here are some key points to consider:

Benefits of WHO Approval for Covaxin:

• Enhanced Credibility: WHO approval indicates that Covaxin meets international standards for safety and efficacy, increasing confidence in the vaccine.
• Wider Acceptance: Countries relying on WHO recommendations may prioritize the distribution of Covaxin, expanding its reach to more populations.
• Access to Global Markets: Approval can facilitate the export of Covaxin to countries participating in the COVAX initiative, promoting equitable vaccine access.

By securing WHO approval, Covaxin can become a key player in the global vaccination campaign, contributing to the containment of the virus and the resumption of normalcy.

Comparison of Vaccines with WHO Approval:

Having multiple vaccines with WHO approval diversifies the options available for countries, improving vaccination coverage and effectiveness in combating the pandemic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Covaxin approved by the World Health Organization (WHO)?

As of now, Covaxin has not yet been approved by the WHO. The approval process is ongoing.

What is the current status of Covaxin’s approval by the WHO?

Covaxin is currently under review by the WHO for emergency use listing (EUL).

How effective is Covaxin against COVID-19 variants?

Studies have shown that Covaxin is effective against the Delta variant of COVID-19.

Is Covaxin safe for use in children?

Covaxin has been approved for emergency use in children aged 2-18 years in India.

Are there any reported side effects of Covaxin?

Common side effects of Covaxin include pain at the injection site, fever, and fatigue.

Can Covaxin be taken as a booster dose?

Covaxin can be used as a booster dose for individuals who have already received two doses of the vaccine.

Feel free to leave your comments and questions below. Don’t forget to check out our other articles for more information on COVID-19 vaccines!