COVID-19 Vaccine (Covaxin / Covishield)

India developed Covaxin (whole-virion inactivated) and adopted Covishield (AstraZeneca viral vector) for its national COVID-19 programme. Both provide protection against severe disease and hospitalisation.

The COVID-19 Vaccine (Covaxin / Covishield) is recommended for 18 years and above; booster (precaution dose) at 9 months after primary series. It falls under the Adult vaccine category. Consult your doctor to confirm if this vaccine is right for you based on your health history and existing immunity.

The COVID-19 Vaccine (Covaxin / Covishield) has an efficacy of 77–90%. This means it provides significant protection against COVID-19 and Severe COVID-19 Disease. Efficacy may vary based on age, health status, and the specific strain encountered.

Common side effects include: Pain at injection site; fatigue; headache; mild fever. These are typically mild and resolve within 1–3 days. Serious allergic reactions are rare — if you experience difficulty breathing, hives, or rapid heartbeat after vaccination, seek emergency care immediately.

The COVID-19 Vaccine (Covaxin / Covishield) should be avoided by: Severe allergy to a previous dose or any component; acute febrile illness (defer). Always inform your healthcare provider of your full medical history before vaccination.

The COVID-19 Vaccine (Covaxin / Covishield) typically costs ₹250 – ₹1,500 in India. Government health centres may offer it free or at subsidised prices for eligible age groups. Private hospitals and clinics may charge differently. Additional fees may apply for administration.