Centre launches study to determine need for booster dose

New Delhi, Dec 24 : The Centre has initiated a study of 3,000 individuals who received their both doses of Covid vaccines to determine the need for booster dose amid the looming scare of Omicron.

The study will be conducted by the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) under the Department of Biotechnology.

The participants who have already received their both doses of Covid vaccines will be given booster doses to determine the impact on their immunity level.The study is expected to cover all three vaccines used in India -- Covishield, Covaxin and Sputnik V.According to a source, the study will include people above 40 years of age, below 40 years of age, people infected with Covid-19 prior to vaccination, and people with co-morbid conditions.The hospitals involved in the study will be submitting the report on blood samples along with the analysis on the requirement of booster doses in India, said the source.

Amid the everyday rise of Omicron cases in India, the need for booster dose has been voiced by many institutions.Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya had earlier said that the decision on booster dose in India will be taken based on scientific data and analysis.

The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) is expected to meet in the first week of January to take a call on the same.avr/dpb

The Centre conducts a study in order to assess the need for booster dosin

Under the Department of Biotechnology, the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute will conduct the study.

Participants who have received both Covid vaccines in their doses will receive booster doses.This is to assess the effect on immunity.

It is anticipated that the study will cover all three Indian vaccines -- Covishield and CovaxinSources say that the study will cover people over 40, those below 40, co-morbidities, as well as people who were infected prior to vaccination with Covid-19.According to the source, the hospitals participating in the study will submit the reports on blood samples and the analysis of Indias requirement for booster doses.

Many institutions have voiced concern about the necessity of a booster dose in light of the increasing number Omicron cases across India.Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Health Minister, had previously stated that Indias decision to increase the dose of Omicron will be based on scientific analysis and data.

In January, the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation will meet to discuss the matter.#determine #booster #dose #Delhi #Delhi #New Delhi #Bid #Covaxin #Covid #Omicron #Covid-19.