Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled the world’s first intranasal COVID-19 vaccine, iNNCOVACC, in New Delhi on January 26, 2023. The vaccine was developed by Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) in collaboration with Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance (BIRAC).
- The intranasal COVID-19 vaccine is set to receive approval for a primary 2-dose schedule and as a heterologous booster dose.
- The rollout of iNCOVACC is expected to begin in private hospitals that have placed advance orders.
- An initial manufacturing capacity of several million doses per annum has been established and can be scaled up to a billion doses as required.
- iNCOVACC is priced at 325 rupees per dose for large-volume procurement by state and central government.
Dr. Mandaviya stated that over 65 percent of vaccines supplied in the world are from India and that this marks a glorious tribute to the call for Atmanirbhar Bharat. The Union Health Minister also highlighted India’s vaccine manufacturing and innovation capabilities and its success in producing quality and affordable medicines.
