WHO flags fake Covid vaccine in India and Africa

The doses were confiscated by authorities in India and Africa between July and August, a WHO statement said.

The UN health body said Serum Institute of India, the maker of the vaccine in India, confirmed that the doses were fake.

WHO has called for the removal of the fake vaccine from circulation.

It has urged for increased vigilance on hospitals, clinics, health centres, wholesalers, distributors, pharmacies, and other suppliers of medical products. It has also asked the countries closely look for potential irregularities in supply chains of countries and regions likely to be affected by these fake products.

“Genuine Covishield vaccine is indicated for active immunisation of individuals 18 years or older for the prevention of coronavirus disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The use of genuine covid-19 vaccines should be in accordance with official guidance from national regulatory authorities," WHO said.

WHO has said all medical products must be obtained from authorized and licensed suppliers. The authenticity and physical condition of the product should be carefully checked. In case of doubt, advice should be sought from a healthcare professional.

The Union health ministry said it is investigating the matter.

 A Mint report, citing a senior health ministry official on condition of anonymity, said, “Although we have a strong system to prevent such cases, with this development, the only thing we want to ensure is that no Indian received a fake vaccine. A vaccination certificate that we give has proper details about the vaccine administered such as batch number, manufacturing details, and adverse reactions. More so, the supply chains are also strictly monitored. We have not received any complaint from anywhere in India so far. We are investigating the matter."

In India, more than 486 million doses of Covishield have been administered so far.

Millions of Covishield vaccines to countries in Asia, Africa and South America as part of Covax scheme meant for vaccination of economically weaker countries.
Many countries were also provided Covishield as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's friendly outreach to countries who needed vaccine doses earnestly but did not have enough resources to procure them.