Gap between two Covishield doses widened to 12-16 weeks by the government

The Government panel on vaccine administration suggested, to increase the gap between the two covishield vaccines. Initially 6-8 weeks, but recommended to increase it to 12-16 weeks. Thus, the union government accepted the recommendation of extending the gap between the first and second doses on Thursday. The Covisheild dosage interval has been second time widened by the health ministry in the time span of three months.

According to the statement by the Union Health Ministry on Thursday said that the decision was made on the basis of available real-life evidence especially from the UK. N K Arora, the chairman of the covid working group recommended to increase the dosing interval between two 2 doses of covishield vaccine to 12-16 weeks. Meanwhile no changes in the covaxin doses schedule.

In a meeting held on May 12, the proposal to increase the dose gap by the covid working group was also accepted by the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for Covid-19 (NEGVAC). Specifically headed by Dr. V.K. Paul, Member (Health), Niti Aayog.

After a careful study and in consultation with the World Health Organisation, also without any pressure. The dosing interval extension recommended, says Dr.Paul.

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Dr. Paul said, “We must have faith in the scientific process followed in the country. Every drop of vaccine available with the government has been used for the people and the aim is to vaccinate the maximum population. There is a vaccine for everyone. Nearly 18 crore doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in India so far’’.

A vaccine jab after 6 months for the people infected with covid-19.

During treatment people receiving plasma should get vaccinated at least after 12 weeks.