Covaxin vs Covishield: A Comparative Analysis of COVID-19 Vaccines

The global COVID-19 pandemic has prompted widespread chaos, emphasizing vaccination as the pivotal strategy to break the chain of this deadly virus. Social distancing, mask-wearing, and handwashing are effective but require strict adherence to be fully effective.

Recognising this, governments have introduced vaccines to combat COVID-19. Vaccination is crucial as it primes the body's immune system to swiftly combat the virus upon exposure, preventing severe illness and mortality.

The Indian government has approved two primary COVID-19 vaccinations for emergency use. Covaxin, manufactured by Bharat Biotech Limited, and Covishield, produced by the Serum Institute of India under license from Oxford-AstraZeneca, are both authorised for use. These vaccines are considered safe for individuals over 18 years old, including those with various pre-existing conditions:

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Auto-immune disorders
Hypertension
Diabetes
Asthma
Chronic infections under stable control

Both Covaxin and Covishield have undergone rigorous testing and are recommended by health authorities to help mitigate the spread and severity of COVID-19 infections.

Know the Effectiveness of Covishield and Covaxin Vaccines

Understanding the differences between Covaxin and Covishield can help individuals make informed decisions regarding their COVID-19 vaccination.

Features	Covaxin	Covishield
Type of Vaccine	Inactivated vaccine	Viral vector vaccine
Manufacturing	Bharat Biotech Limited	Serum Institute of India (under license from Oxford-AstraZeneca)
Vaccine Process	Uses whole, inactivated viruses to trigger immune response	Uses a viral vector to deliver genetic material of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to trigger immune response
Dosage	Two doses, typically 4-6 weeks apart	Two doses, spaced between 4-12 weeks
Storage	Requires standard refrigeration (2-8 degrees Celsius)	Can be stored at standard refrigeration temperatures (2-8 degrees Celsius)
Effectiveness	Effective in reducing severity and mortality risk associated with COVID-19	Effective in reducing severity and mortality risk associated with COVID-19
Precautions	Standard precautions apply	Standard precautions apply
Side Effects	Mild to moderate side effects reported	Mild to moderate side effects reported
Second Dose Timing	Generally administered 4-6 weeks after the first dose	Administered between 4-12 weeks after the first dose
Best For	Individuals seeking an inactivated virus-based vaccine	Individuals seeking a viral vector-based vaccine
Availability	Available in various vaccination centers across India	Available in India and other countries participating in the COVAX initiative

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Frequently Asked Questions

In India, two vaccines, Covaxin (developed by Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech) and Covishield (developed by Oxford-AstraZeneca and manufactured by Serum Institute of India), are now in use.

COVID-19 vaccines have some side effects like:

Mild fever
Swelling
Headache
Nausea and dizziness
Pain and discomfort

However, you may require immediate medical attention if you experience serious adverse effects such as severe allergic reactions, an unusual infection, seizures, or any other unexpected side effects. If you have any of these symptoms, you must immediately notify the doctor so that he or she can act accordingly.

No! Because vaccines are not interchangeable, it is critical to receive the second dose of the same vaccination as the first. Furthermore, the COWIN app will help in ensuring that everyone receives the same immunization.

Covishield and Covaxin are now being used in India. The optimum time between the two doses is determined by the type of vaccine. The second dosage of the vaccination must be administered 28 days after the first dose, according to current government protocol.

According to Covishield, the booster dosage may be more effective if the gap between the two doses is between 6 - 12 weeks.

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Yes, even after vaccination, we should all continue to wear masks, especially in public places. Getting vaccinated does not mean that we can return to our usual lives right after. Vaccinations are now merely another layer of protection against the COVID-19 pandemic until we acquire some level of herd immunity.

In the future, you may be required to provide proof of vaccination to travel, work in some sectors, or attend major events.

Pregnant or lactating women, as well as those with weakened immune systems, should avoid receiving the vaccination. If you have any questions, you should consult with the provider so that you can make an informed decision for your specific circumstance.

Yes. At this point, there is insufficient information to determine how long protection from a COVID-19 infection lasts. It's also uncertain whether vaccination or illness generates the most powerful immunity. If you have COVID-19 and were treated with monoclonal antibodies, you must wait 90 days before getting the vaccination.