New Delhi: The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) will discuss Tuesday whether to allow early administration of the precaution dose of Covid-19 vaccine to those travelling abroad for education, employment, sporting events and business commitments. The advisory panel is also likely to deliberate on reducing the gap between the second dose of Covid-19 vaccine and the precaution dose from the current nine months to six months for all, official sources said Tuesday.
“Taking into account the scientific evidence and findings of the studies done here and internationally, some experts are of the view that the gap can be reduced from the current nine months to six months for all,” an official source said.
“Besides, the (health) ministry has received several representations seeking allowing for administration of precaution dose of Covid-19 vaccine for those who have to urgently travel for employment, taking admission in foreign educational institutions, participating in sports tournaments, in bilateral, multilateral meetings as part of India’s official delegation or for attending business commitments,” the source said.
The NTAGI may also review the data of Covid-19 vaccines for the 5-12 age group.
Studies at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and other international research institutions have suggested that antibody level wanes after around six months after the primary vaccination with both doses and giving a booster increases the immune response, official sources said.
Those above the age of 18 year who have completed nine months after the administration of the second dose are eligible for the precaution dose. The final decision will be taken based on the recommendations by the NTAGI which is set to meet Tuesday.
