Permission has been given to the 5 medical colleges/hospitals in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar to commence a clinical trial of Covaxin. The state health and family welfare department has given this permission. This original vaccine is developed by Bharat Biotech in association with the National Institute of Virology (NIV) and the Indian Council of Medical Research.

A senior health department official said that the approval is given to Bharat Biotech after their application that was dated on 23rd September for Phase III efficiency and safety clinical trials. The trial will be carried in strict rules, regulations and SOPs. Also, all the stakeholders will be provided with the results of the trials periodically.

The five colleges/hospitals taking part in the trial are BJ Medical College, GMERS Medical College at Sola, SGVP Hospital and MK Shah Medical College in Ahmedabad and GMERS Medical College in Gandhinagar.

Sources who are aware of the development said the clinical trials are fast-tracked. Few other states are also chosen to make a COVID-19 vaccine available in India, as it is one of the worst-hit countries during this pandemic.

A senior city-based health department official, said that they would extend all the required support, while the SOP and selection of individuals for the trial is expected.

Source: ET Healthworld