Covaxin effective against double-mutant strain, says ICMR

NEW DELHI: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Monday that Covid-19 vaccine Covaxin neutralizes multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2 and effectively neutralizes the double mutant strain as well.

ICMR cited the findings of a study carried out by them.

Covaxin is developed locally by Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech International Ltd. in collaboration with the ICMR – the apex body in India for the formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research.

ICMR-National Institute of Virology has successfully isolated and cultured multiple variants of concern of SARS-CoV-2 virus: B.1.1.7 (the UK variant), B.1.1.28 (Brazil variant) and B.1.351 (South Africa variant), said the apex health research body.

"ICMR study shows Covaxin neutralizes against multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2 and effectively neutralizes the double mutant strain as well," the ICMR said in a tweet.

They have also demonstrated the neutralization potential of Covaxin against the UK variant and Brazil variant.

ICMR-NIV recently has been successful in isolating and culturing the double mutant strain B.1.617 SARS-CoV-2 identified in certain regions of India and several other countries.

"Covaxin has been found to effectively neutralize the double mutant strain as well," it said.

The study was published in the Journal for Travel Medicine in March where it highlighted that Covaxin is effective against the UK variants as well as other strains of Covid-19.

"It was reassuring from the PRNT50 data generated in our laboratory that the indigenous BBV152/ COVAXIN, following its roll out in vaccination program, could be expected to work against the new UK-variant," the study said. (IANS)

Also Watch: Covaxin works against multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2

Also Read: Post Blood Clot Concern, Covishield & Covaxin Vaccines to be Reviewed by India