Government is considering using more than one Covid-19 vaccine to cater to the large population size.

Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said considering the large population size of India, one vaccine or vaccine manufacturer will not be able to fulfil the requirements of vaccinating the whole country.

He was responding to people’s queries on his social media accounts as part of the fifth episode of his Sunday Samvaad.

The Heath Minister said, India may have to tie up with more than one vaccine manufacturer to ensure that every one in the country receives protection against the coronavirus when a vaccine becomes available.

Dr Harsh Vardhan stressed the need for making sure that the most vulnerable groups get it first.

He said, all Covid-19 vaccines currently in India are in the phases 1, 2 or 3 of trials with results awaited.

Minister said, adequate safety and efficacy data is required for emergency use authorization vaccine approval for ensuring patient safety.

Dr Harshvarshan has urged people to take all precautions during the festive season. He also asked people to avoid assembling in large numbers during festivals. He also warned the people against complacency saying masks must be used even at places of worship.

Health Minister categorically denied the rumours of the Government prioritizing young and working-class for the COVID-19 vaccine for economic reasons. He said, the prioritisation of groups for COVID-19 vaccine shall be based on two key considerations. These are Occupational hazard and risk of exposure to infection, and the risk of developing severe disease and increased mortality. The Minister requested people to not share any content related to health and safety without double-checking its veracity.