Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech—India's current vaccine producers—have both advised people who have a history of allergies or are severely allergic to any ingredient of COVID-19 vaccines, Covishield and Covaxin, to not take it. Both the companies have separately brought out fact sheets to help allay fears and concerns about the vaccines.
Ingredients of Covishield
The ingredients of Covishield vaccine are "L-Histidine, L-Histidine hydrochloride monohydrate, Magnesium chloride hexahydrate, Polysorbate 80, Ethanol, Sucrose, Sodium chloride, Disodium edetate dihydrate (EDTA), Water for injection," Serum Institute said.
Who shouldn't take Covishield
According to the fact sheet for the vaccine recipient by the Serum Institute of India, one should not get the Covishield vaccine if the person:
- had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of this vaccine.
- had a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient of this vaccine.
Who shouldn't take Covaxin
You shouldn't take Covaxin if you:
- have any history of allergies.
- have a fever.
- have a bleeding disorder or are on a blood thinner.
- are immune-compromised or are on a medicine that affects your immune system.
- are pregnant.
- are breastfeeding.
- have received another COVID-19 vaccine.
- any other serious health-related issues, as determined by the vaccinator/officer supervising the vaccination.
Recipients are warned of severe allergic reactions that may include difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face and throat, fast heart-beat, rashes all over the body, dizziness and weakness.
