Karnataka Health Minister Dr. K. Sudhakar exuded confidence in Covaxin, developed by the Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech, and criticised detractors of the vaccine.
"An Indian firm has developed a vaccine to fight COVID-19, and criticising it without a reason is like showing disrespect to the scientists who developed it," said Sudhakar.
A few days ago, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) approved Covaxin for "restricted use in emergency situation" in the country even as the Centre is planning for a massive roll-out the vaccine. However, some political leaders had expressed their reservations about the vaccine being approved prior to its phase 3 trials in India.
The minister reminded the critics of Bharat Biotech's vast experience in vaccine development saying, "It is a reputed and trustworthy company which has a vast experience in vaccine development. They have developed 16 vaccines for various diseases, including H1N1, Rotavirus, Rabies, Chikungunya and Zika."
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Claiming that the results of the Phase 3 trials of Covaxin would be out soon, Sudhakar said, "Dr Krishna Ella, the chairman and managing director of Bharat Biotech, hails from an ordinary family, but has accomplished a rare feat. The company has distributed 400 crore doses of the vaccine across 150 developing countries in collaboration with the UNICEF. Around 24,000 volunteers have taken part in the Phase 3 trials and the data will be out soon."
"It is a safe vaccine. Moreover, the vaccine cannot be administered without permission from the Centre. India's efforts in the vaccine development have been lauded by Bill Gates, WHO chief, among others. The able political leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has helped India take the lead in vaccine development. I am sure our country will play an important role in providing vaccine to all those in need across the world," said Sudhakar, who also elaborated on the state's preparedness for the massive vaccine roll out plan.
"In the first phase, 6.30 lakh health workers will be given the vaccine, which includes 2.73 lakh government and 3.57 lakh private hospital health workers. At least 9,807 experienced vaccinator personnel and 28,427 vaccination centres have been identified so far," informed Sudhakar.
"The state has received 64 ice-lined refrigerators and 24 lakh syringes, while another 31 lakh syringes and other medical equipment will be made available shortly," he added.
