'Powerful example for all Indians': Bharat Biotech after PM Modi takes Covaxin shot

Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL), India’s leading vaccines and bio-therapeutics manufacturer has welcomed the gesture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in taking the first dose of Covid-19 vaccine of Covaxin himself.

Dr. Krishna Ella, Chairman & Managing Director, Bharat Biotech International Limited said, “We thank the Hon’ble Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi for taking the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine himself and are deeply appreciative of the gesture. This has set a powerful example for all Indians to follow, which will go a long way in reducing vaccine hesitancy and building confidence in immunisation against the ongoing pandemic. We express our sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister for reposing his trust in the indigenously developed COVID-19 vaccine, COVAXIN. We urge all fellow citizens to not hesitate from taking part in the Covid-19 immunisation program so that the country can bring an end to this public health crisis.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (March 1) was administered the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin at the All India Institute Of Medical Science (AIIMS) Delhi in the second phase of the COVID-19 vaccination drive. 

"Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19," PM Modi wrote on his Twitter. 

Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS.

Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19.

I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free! pic.twitter.com/5z5cvAoMrv

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 1, 2021

Speaking to the media after the vaccination, P Niveda, one of the nurses who administered the vaccine to the PM, said, "After taking the vaccine, the Prime Minister remarked, Laga Bhi Di, Pata Hi Nahi Chala" (Oh it’s done, I didn't even feel it).” She added that the PM also chatted with the two nurses and asked them where they were from.

BBV152 (COVAXIN®) contains a whole virion inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, which is produced in Vero cells. The vaccine is stable at +2°C to +8°C (refrigerated) and is shipped in a ready-to-use liquid formulation that permits distribution using existing vaccine supply chain channels.