From today onwards, Bharat Biotech′s intranasal vaccine, iNCOVACC, authorized for emergency use by the Union Government, will be included in the COVID vaccination program. On September 6, iNCOVACC received approval from the Drugs Controller General of India for restricted use in emergencies for ages 18 and 19.

iNCOVACC is a BBV-154, novel adenovirus vector, intranasal vaccine for COVID-19. According to Bharat Biotech, an intranasal vaccine stimulates a broad immune response, including neutralizing IgG, mucosal IgA, and T-cell responses. As a result, it blocks the infection and transmission by initiating an immune response at the injection site in the nasal mucosa. Also, it is highly suitable for kids.

Currently, the Indian government is gearing up preventive measures against the infection after observing the COVID situation in China. The Center has released guidelines and mandated that all travelers should be fully vaccinated as per the approved primary schedule of vaccination in their country. The guidelines also made masks and social distancing mandatory on flights and at the airport entry and exit points.