ZyCov – D is the second indigenous vaccine next to COVAXIN. The unique feature of ZyCov – D is that it is needle – less vaccine. At first, the ZyCov – D vaccine is to be launched in seven states. They are Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Punjab, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.

About ZyCov – D Vaccine

• The vaccine is to be administered only persons in the age group of 12 to 19 years.
• The ZyCov – D is administered using a needle – free applicator.
• It is a three dose vaccine. It is taken at 28^th day and 56^th day of the first dose.
• The cost of ZyCov – D is Rs 376.
• The ZyCov – D showed 66.6% efficiacy.
• The vaccine was developed by the Indian Pharmaceutical company called Cadila Healthcare.

ZyCov – D developed on Plasmid DNA

The ZyCov – D vaccine was developed on plasmid DNA. In simple terms, it was developed using a piece of DNA of the weakened or killed virus. When this DNA piece is injected into the body, the human immune systems learn to respond against the virus. The plasmid is produced using E Coli cells.