WHO has sent more technical queries to Covaxin manufacturer Bharat Biotech for its approval delaying the process for Indian global travel.
It seems Indians who took two shots of Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin may have to wait longer before they can travel abroad. According to sources, the World Health Organization has further delayed the emergency use authorization for the vaccine, as it has more technical queries that Bharat Biotech needs to answer before it gets approval. A Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) meet, scheduled on 5 October, was likely to discuss the issue of the delay.
With international borders reopening, not having the World Health Organization’s approval has made those vaccinated with two doses of Covaxin be treated as ‘unvaccinated’. It will be difficult and even impossible for Covaxin vaccinated people in some situations to travel abroad.
According to a report by news agency ANI, Dr. Bharti Praveen Pawar, Union Minister of State in the Ministry of Health had said last Friday that ‘there is a process to submit documents for approval. Covaxin will soon get WHO approval for emergency use.
Earlier, Dr. VK Paul of the National Expert Group had also said that WHO approval for Covaxin is likely to be received before the end of this month.
The sign of delay comes after the statement of the Union Health Ministry when it was said that the vaccine could be approved anytime soon.