The WHO has advised that, in light of the Omicron danger, recipients of whole inactivated virus-based vaccines, as well as those designated as most immunocompromised, get supplemental doses.

Covaxin recipients in India, but not Covishield users, may be eligible for booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine first, according to sources with the country's expert council on vaccination. They reference a new World Health Organization guidance. Despite mounting calls for universal booster doses, India has opted to align its policy with the WHO's, as VK Paul, the chairman of the country's COVID task team, said recently.

Booster doses for the immunocompromised

The WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization previously recommended booster shots for those who are immunocompromised, such as those on dialysis or immunosuppressive medications, or who have received an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine based on killed SARS-CoV-2 previously.

According to a source in the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization:

"Given our policy of adhering to WHO guidelines for vaccines, including booster doses, we are examining their most recent recommendations and will have a formal discussion in the expert group."

Covaxin and two Chinese-made injections are the only COVID vaccinations with inactivated viruses licenced globally. Covaxin accounts for about 10.7 per cent of the over 135 crore vaccinations provided in India. Covishield, an adenovirus-based vaccine developed by the Serum Institute of India, has remained the dominant player in the immunisation campaign. However, experts point out that there is currently no solid evidence on the timeframe of antibody levels in people after Covaxin administration at a wide population level.

Recently, health ministry officials advised a parliamentary standing committee that a third dosage may be provided if necessary, but only nine months after the second dose.

Disclaimer- The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author's and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of M3 India.

The author is a practising super specialist from New Delhi.