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Bharat Biotech's Nasal Vaccine 'Can Adapt' To New COVID Strains, Regulatory Nod Awaited
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Bharat Biotech told News18 that the company's COVID-19 vaccine platforms are enabled for 'adaptation'. However, restarting production needs regulatory agency approvals.
Amid rising concerns over the JN.1 COVID-19 variant, Indian vaccine maker Bharat Biotech has stated its preparedness to address the emerging variant with its 'adaptable" vaccine platforms. However, production will only restart with regulatory approval.
Suchitra Ella, Managing Director of Bharat Biotech, told News18 that the company is 'actively monitoring the ongoing situation" and remains prepared to respond, emphasising the adaptability of its vaccine platforms to evolving strains. 'We remain committed to ensuring that our vaccine platforms are adaptable and ready to respond to evolving strains," she said.
As of 11 June, India has recorded 7,121 active COVID-19 cases, according to the Union Health Ministry's official COVID-19 dashboard. Delhi, Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra, and West Bengal report the majority of these cases.
Highlighting the benefits of its nasal vaccine, iNCOVACC, Ella told News18 that its intranasal COVID-19 vaccine offers targeted upper respiratory tract protection, ease of administration without needles, and adaptability to circulating strains.
The company affirms its proactive monitoring and preparedness: 'actively monitoring the situation and well-positioned to respond effectively if the need arises."
iNCOVACC, India's first intranasal COVID-19 vaccine, is available as a booster dose for adults. Its needle-free design, with drops instilled into each nostril, eliminates the need for trained healthcare professionals for administration.
Ella confirmed the adaptability of both the injectable and intranasal COVID-19 vaccine platforms. 'However, any decision to restart production is contingent upon regulatory agency approvals. We continue to work in close coordination with regulatory bodies to ensure preparedness always aligns with evolving scientific and safety standards," she explained in an emailed interview with News18.
While several countries recommend booster doses for high-risk and vulnerable groups, experts in India have not yet issued such a recommendation.
'Booster doses have been recommended in several countries for high-risk and vulnerable populations. Booster doses in our country are subject to approval from national regulatory agencies."
Ella clarified that COVID-19 vaccine production would only recommence if directed by the national regulatory body. She also revealed the extent of vaccine wastage due to declining demand: 'As of early 2022, production of COVAXIN was paused in response to reduced demand and the cancellation of issued purchase orders. Subsequently, we proceeded with the destruction of around 20 crore doses of bulk and almost 5 crore doses of vaccines in vials."
A senior health ministry source informed News18 that the recent rise in COVID-19 cases is no cause for panic, likening the current trend to seasonal influenza. While no immediate vaccination is necessary, basic precautions are advised, especially for those exhibiting symptoms. 'Wear a mask if you have a cough or cold, and request those around you to do the same, and people with co-morbidities like diabetes or kidney disease should remain particularly cautious during this period."
Although booster shots may not be currently necessary in India, given the mild, influenza-like illness caused by current variants, the preparedness of Indian vaccine companies and their adaptable platforms demonstrate the nation's capacity for rapid response should more severe COVID-19 variants or other pathogens emerge.
