Covishield is one of the major vaccines used globally against COVID-19.
What is Covishield?
Developed by the Serum Institute of India (SII), Oxford University, and AstraZeneca.
Uses a viral vector platform. This means a weakened chimpanzee adenovirus (ChAdOx1) is modified to carry the genetic material for the SARS-CoV-2 virus's spike protein.
Once inside human cells, the genetic material instructs cells to produce spike proteins. The immune system then recognizes these proteins as foreign and mounts a defense, preparing the body to fight the actual virus.
How Effective is Covishield?
Studies show Covishield to be up to 90% effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 illness.
Effectiveness may vary depending on factors like age and underlying health conditions.
Dosing Schedule
Covishield is administered in two doses, typically 4-12 weeks apart.
Possible Side Effects
Covishield, like most vaccines, can cause mild side effects at the injection site, such as pain, redness, or swelling.
Other possible side effects include:
Fever
Headache
Fatigue
Muscle aches
Nausea
Serious side effects are rare.
Important Considerations
Covishield is not recommended for everyone. People with severe allergies to any of the vaccine components or a history of serious allergic reactions should consult a doctor.
Individuals with weakened immune systems or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy may need to discuss vaccination with their doctor.
Vaccination is particularly important for those at high risk of complications from COVID-19, such as older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
View on the link between Covishield and heart attacks:
It's a complex issue with ongoing research:
Limited evidence: Large studies haven't found a strong connection between Covishield and increased heart attack risk.
Potential for rare side effects: AstraZeneca, the developer behind Covishield, acknowledges a very small possibility of a rare blood clotting condition called Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) which can lead to strokes or heart attacks.
COVID-19 itself a bigger risk factor: There's stronger evidence that COVID-19 infection significantly increases the risk of heart problems, including heart attacks. Vaccination offers protection against this risk.
Here's a breakdown of some recent developments:
Studies showing no link: A recent observational study in India found no association between Covishield/Covaxin and heart attacks.
Concerns and ongoing review: Some doctors have raised concerns about a possible link, calling for further investigation.
Reliable sources :
Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website
World Health Organization (WHO)