Here Is What You Need To Know About The ZyCov-D Vaccine

The Ahmedabad-based pharmaceutical Zydus Cadila is awaiting approval from the national drugs regulator, CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation) for its COVID-19 vaccine ZyCov-D. Amidst the high demand for vaccines in the country, The company has sought an Emergency Use Authorisation (EUA) for the said vaccine.

Once approved, ZyCov-D will be the first COVID-19 vaccine that will use a genetically engineered, non-replicating version of a type of DNA molecule known as a ‘plasmid’, the world’s first DNA vaccine against infection with SARS-CoV-2.

Here Are 7 Things You Must Know About The Zydus Vaccine:

• Member of Niti Ayog Vinod Kumar Paul on July 2 stated that Zydus Cadila is undergoing a process of evaluation by the subject expert committee. On the same, they are hoping to hear a positive response. "It will be a moment of pride as it is a unique technology," he added.
• The “plasmid DNA” vaccine will be given in three doses, within an interval of 28 days between the three shots, unlike most other vaccines which need two doses.
• Another feature of the vaccine is that it needs no needle for injection. It is a spring-powered device that delivers the shot as a narrow, precise stream of fluid that penetrates the skin without being injected.
• According to reports, the trial phases of the vaccine revealed that it is safe and immunogenic. The trial's targeted participants involved minors aged between 12 and 18 years. The initial two doses of Zydus seemed to be enough to provide protection from severe symptoms and death while the three doses reportedly prevent mild symptoms too.
• The vaccine is claimed to be effective on the Delta variant of COVID-19 as well. The trials were mostly performed on Delta Variant and the reports proved the same to be effective.
• So far, there has not been much evidence to state the vaccine's safety and ability to prompt an immune response. However, historically, DNA vaccines do not induce or worsen autoimmunity.
• The production is expected to begin by mid-August and the company will be producing 10 million doses every month and hopes to provide the country with 50 million doses by the end of this year.