First Covid vax for kids above 12 yrs gets approval

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has approved DNA COVID-19 vaccine ZyCoV-D of Cadila Healthcare for restricted use in emergency situation in India for 12 years and above.
It was approved after evaluation of interim Phase III clinical trial results in consultation with Subject Expert Committee of CDSCO.
 The vaccine has efficacy of 66.6 percent and it is to be stored at 2 degree Celsius to 8 degree Celsius. The vaccine is needle free to be administered intradermally in three doses at day 0, 28 and 56.
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, India is fighting COVID-19 with full vigour and the approval for world’s first DNA based ZyCov-D vaccine of Zydus Cadila is a testimony to the innovative zeal of India’s scientists.
 In a tweet, Mr Modi said, it is a momentous feat indeed.
 Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said, double good news for the nation as CDSCO approves the 1st DNA-based, needle-free COVID19 vaccine in the world – ZyCov-D of Zydus Cadila.
 He said, in making children of India COVID-safe, this vaccine can be used for individuals aged 12 and above.
 Mr Mandaviya said, ZyCov-D is the 6th approved COVID19 vaccine in India, and the 2nd indigenously developed one.
 He said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India delivers another significant accomplishment.