Asaduddin Owaisi raises questions over Covishield as PM Modi receives Covaxin shot, asks govt to clear confusion

Asaduddin Owaisi

AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi on March 1 raised questions over the efficacy of Serum Institute's Covishield vaccine, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi got the first shot of Bharat Biotech's Covaxin.

In early January, India’s drug regulator had approved two vaccines — Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin and the Oxford/AstraZeneca-developed Covishield, which is being manufactured by Serum Institute of India (SII) — for emergency use in the country.

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Citing a German government report, Owaisi has claimed that Covishield is effective for those between 18 and 64 years and it isn't effective for the ones above 64. He further asked the govt to clear the confusion.

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"As per German govt, Covishield isn't as effective for people aged 64 & above as it's for people aged between 18 and 64. Can government clarify the confusion? It's a coincidence that the PM took Bharat Biotech's COVAXIN vaccine today. However, I urge all to get vaccinated," the Hyderabad MP told ANI.

As per Germany govt, #Covishield isn't as effective for people aged 64 & above as it's for people aged b/w 18-64. Can Govt clarify the confusion? It's a coincidence that PM took Bharat Biotech's COVAXIN vaccine today. However, I urge all to get vaccinated: Asaduddin Owaisi, AIMIM pic.twitter.com/6k0CajsVh0

— ANI (@ANI) March 1, 2021

Also Read: COVID-19 vaccination guide: How to register, book appointment on Co-WIN portal and other key points

PM Modi was administered Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin vaccine against COVID-19, according to a video posted by news agency ANI.

Meanwhile, Modi taking the indigenously developed Covaxin dose is being seen as an attempt to allay fears over the vaccine’s efficacy.