Abstract

COVAXIN(BBV152): HISTORY, COMPONENTS, MECHANISM, EFFICACY AND OTHER COVID-19 VACCINES

*Sandhiya G.

ABSTRACT

SARS-CoV-2 is an RNA virus that rapidly spread across the world. It was first identified in Wuhan, in China. At that time, there were no specific drugs available to treat COVID-19. Health Care workers used some antiviral medicines and steroids to reduce the symptoms. Covaxin is made using a traditional method called the Whole Virion inactivated Vaccine which means the Virus is inactivated so it can’t cause disease. But, still helps the body to learn to fight it [to boost the immune system]. It was developed by Bharat Biotech International Limited, located in Hyderabad, in partnership with National Institute of Virology (NIV) and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). BBV152 is the code name of COVAXIN. It is India’s first (indigenous) locally developed COVID-19 vaccine. It was developed using the NIV-2020-770 strain. BBV152 was combined with Algel-IMDG, where IMDG (Imidazoquinoline) improving vaccine’s effectiveness. SARS-CoV-2 is a round or slightly irregular virus with an outer envelope, it is tiny and measuring about 65-125 nm in diameter. One side has a curved in surface with a raised edge, this shape allows it to bind more strongly and make more contacts with ACE-2 receptor. During pandemic, Covaxin was allowed to be used in emergency situations, even though the full clinical trials happened. This special permission called Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). At that time, based on the early results (called interim analysis) from the clinical trials, the vaccine was found to be 81% effective. It is administered through the intramuscular route. The virus spreads mainly through the tiny droplets from coughing or sneezing When inhaled, it enters the nose and begins to multiply. ACE-2 is the main receptor that allows COVID-19 to attach. These interact with T cells, which release cytokines that stimulate B cells to produce antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. It mainly targets the virus’s spike protein. Covaxin represents a milestone in India’s scientific and public health achievements, showcasing the potential of inactivated vaccines to deliver safe and effective protection during a global health crisis. Its development and deployment demonstrated India’s capacity for rapid vaccine innovation, large-scale manufacturing, and efficient distribution, particularly in regions with limited resources.

Keywords: COVID-19, inactivated, BBV152, indigenous, interim analysis, effective, antibodies.