Mixing distinct Covid-19 vaccines scientifically possible: Centre

The Centre has stated that it is scientifically possible for an individual to get two doses of distinct vaccines of Covid-19, however, it will require a longer time to decide if the same can be advisable or not. According to a recent study conducted in the UK, it has been identified that it is a safe procedure to mix the doses of distinct vaccines, however the study iterates about the possibility of several side effects.

NITI Aayog member (Health), VK Paul revealed on Saturday, “It is plausible. But there need to be more studies. It can’t be said definitively that mixing of doses can be practised. There is no robust scientific evidence. Only time will tell whether it will be done in future or not, It will depend on international studies, World Health Organization findings etc. Our experts are also continuously studying.”

Paul further added, “One shot of one type produces antibodies and the second shot from another will increase that. Scientifically, there is no problem.”

Presently, the two Covid-19 vaccines administered in the country are Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin along with Serum Institute of India’s Covishield. Both of them are given in two doses, with the second dose being referred to as ‘booster dose’. The health ministry had repeatedly advised about taking both the doses of the same vaccine.

The study about the mixing of Covid-19 doses was conducted on around a count of 2,000 volunteers, wherein they were given one dose of Oxford vaccine whereas the second dose was of Pfizer as one mix and match combination. The other combination was of Novovax and Moderna in lesser frequency.

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