DCGI gives nod to Bharat Biotech Intranasal 'Five Arms' COVID booster dose for restricted use

BBV154 - A novel adenovirus vectored, intranasal vaccine for COVID-19.

As per the vaccine manufacturer, the nasal route has excellent potential for vaccination due to the organised immune systems of the nasal mucosa. Thus, intranasal immunisation of ChAd-SARS-CoV-2-S can create an immune response in the nose, which is the point of entry for the virus -- thereby protecting against disease, infection, and transmission.

The nasal vaccine can be taken after six months of the second dose. As this is non-invasive and needle-free, it becomes easy to administer.

Bharat Biotech claimed that the intranasal vaccine stimulates a broad immune response. It is likely to block both infection and transmission of COVID-19.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

According to WHO, most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age. 

Read also: DCGI Panel To Hold Discussion On Intranasal "Five Arms" Booster Dose INCOVACC On Nov 15: Sources

Bharat Biotech International Limited is an Indian multinational biotechnology company headquartered in Genome Valley, Turakapally, Hyderabad. The company was founded by Krishna Ella in 1996.

It is engaged in drug discovery, drug development, manufacture of vaccines, bio-therapeutics, pharmaceuticals, and health care products.