Pregnant Women in India Receive COVID-19 Vaccine Authorization

The India Health Ministry announced on July 2, 2021, that pregnant women are now eligible for Covid-19 vaccination at any time of the pregnancy.

The Ministry stated said that although most infected pregnant women (>90%) recover without the need for hospitalization, “rapid deterioration in health may occur in the women and could also affect the fetus health.” The statement adds that most newborns (95%) of Covid-positive mothers have been in good condition at birth.

Additionally, 'experts are of the view that the benefits of vaccination to the pregnant women outweigh its potential risks.'

'Based on the recommendations from National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization, India Health Ministry has approved vaccination of pregnant women against COVID-19 with the condition that the pregnant women may be informed about the risks of exposure to COVID-19 infection along with the risks and benefits associated with the COVID-19 vaccines available in India. Based on the information provided, a pregnant woman will have the choice to take the vaccination.'

Three vaccines have been authorized by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization in India, Covishield® (AstraZeneca's vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India) and Covaxin® (manufactured by Bharat Biotech Limited), and Sputnik V.

Local media reported on July 1, 2021, indicate India's government expert panel has said the Phase 3 trial data for the single-dose Sputnik Light vaccine could be submitted by Dr. Reddy's.