Adar Poonawalla says SII is ready if government announces booster dose
Serum Institute of India's chief executive Adar Poonawalla today told NDTV it may take a few weeks to know the results of tests on the new coronavirus of concern, Omicron, which was first detected in South Africa.
Here are 5 key points on booster dose and Omicron threat:
"The message for all - and a priority - is for everyone to get the two doses of the vaccine. That is the first step to stay protected. It is only after that one can enhance that safety with boosters over the next year. The focus of the government must remain to get everyone double vaccinated."
"Scientists at Oxford are continuing their research, and based on their findings, we may come out with a new vaccine which would act as a booster in six months from now. Based on the research, we would know about the third and fourth dose for all of us."
"A Lancet report says Covishield's efficacy is very high and significantly reduces chances of hospitalisation and possibility of death."
"The tests are on for Omicron, and we should have the results in a couple of weeks. We are not sure right now how severe the Omicron variant is."
"If the government announces booster dose, we have enough vaccines in stock. In the private market the booster dose may cost Rs 600."
