COVID-19: All you need to know about the world's first approved intra-nasal vaccine

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The Indian government has started the distribution of the world's first approved intra-nasal on December 23, 2021.

Those wishing to administer the vaccine or who have loved ones planning to take the recently approved vaccine would have some questions that they would like answered.

Here is a compiled list of facts answering several common queries from Bharat Biotech, the manufacturer of the vaccine.

What is Incovacc?

The Incovacc, BBV154, is a "novel adenovirus vectored, intra-nasal vaccine for Covid-19", the Bharat Biotech website says. It has been indicated for active immunisation against SARS-CoV-2 virus infection.

What is an intra-nasal vaccine?

An intra-nasal vaccine is a vaccine that is administered through an individual's nose and is needleless.

How is it administered?

Incovacc is administered with a total of 8 drops (0.5 mL per dose), 4 drops into each nostril as a 2-dose series, 4 weeks apart.

Is it licensed?

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation of India has granted permission for the sale or distribution of Incovacc for immunisation against SARS-CoV-2 virus infection.

What are possible side-effects?

The website reports the following possible side-effects:

It is also possible for a severe allergic reaction to occur; however, Bharat Biotech says no such event was reported in the clinical trial.

Who should not receive a vaccine?

Three categories of people should avoid getting the intra-nasal vax.

1. Those with severe allergies to one or more than one component of the vaccine are recommended not to get vaccinated.

Each 0.5 ml of Incovacc contains NLT 5x1010 particles per mL of ChAd36-SARS-CoV-S Covid19 virus (recombinant) including excipients such as Tris (pH 7.4), Sodium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride, Glycerol, Polysorbate- 80.

2. Individuals who have had a severe reaction to the previous vaccination.

3. Those suffering from an acute infection or fever.