The government is asking pharma companies to extend medical tests

Pharma companies to extend medical test.

Scientists and developers of vaccines should apply for complementary clinical trials on children, infants, pregnant women and vulnerable people, says the department of biotechnology (DBT), with a view to expanding the country's covid-19 vaccine strategy to more people. These trials will be funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which is a fund that supports international cooperation and coordination in the development of vaccines against infectious diseases. DBT supports the implementation of Ind-CEPI Mission, India Centric Epidemic Preparedness through Rapid Vaccine Development.

CEPI will provide up to $ 140 million to fund vaccine developers and other research institutes around the world with fast-paced clinical information on covid-19 vaccines. Clinical trials are sought to further current covid-19 vaccine efforts by providing information on categories of people and age groups such as pregnant and lactating women, infants and children, and those with low immune systems, who may not currently be eligible for immunizations. If trials show that these vaccines are safe, tolerant, and produce viral responses in such individuals, trial data may inform and influence current vaccination strategies around the world to increase access to these key groups. Clinical studies for certain age groups such as infants and children can also provide important information on the size of vaccines needed to make an impact.

Vaccine manufacturers and scientists in India should also take part in tests to produce data on whether booster doses are needed, the duration of the vaccine remains valid and the potential impact of a variety of coronavirus novels on vaccine performance, the government said.

India has already reviewed the intervals between the two Covid shield doses from the current 4-6 weeks to 4-8 weeks following scientific evidence showing improved protection in covid by increasing the dosage of the second dose. Some nations are considering doing the same or using a combination of vaccines to increase the use of available stock and accelerate the mass vaccination. The government said clinical trials could provide more information about dosage time and 'mixing and matching' techniques.

India launched its national immunization campaign on January 16 for health workers, followed by top frontline workers from 2 February. The next phase of vaccination began on March 1 in those over 60 years and in those aged 45 and over with the prescribed comorbidities. Since 1 April, the Centre has expanded the immunization of all people over the age of 45 regardless of whether they have comorbidities or not.