Understanding the Covaxin Vaccine
know about the covaxin vaccine, who should get it, how it works, features, possible side effects, effectiveness, who should get it done and more.
Written by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
Reviewed by Dr. Mohammed Kamran MBBS, FIDM
Last updated on 30th Jul, 2025
Introduction
Vaccines are one of the most effective tools to protect ourselves from infectious diseases. Covaxin is one such vaccine developed to fight against COVID-19, the illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. If you or your loved ones are considering getting vaccinated, it’s natural to have questions. This article will help you understand what Covaxin is, how it works, its benefits, and what to expect after vaccination.
What is Covaxin?
Covaxin is an indigenous COVID-19 vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). It is an inactivated virus vaccine, meaning it contains a killed version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Since the virus is inactive, it cannot cause infection but helps your immune system recognize and fight the real virus if exposed in the future.
Consult a top general practitioner for the best advice
Key Features of Covaxin:
Made in India – Developed and manufactured in India.
Approved by WHO – Recognized as safe and effective by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Two-dose regimen – Given in two doses, 28 days apart.
Stored at 2-8°C – Easier to transport and store compared to some other vaccines.
How Does Covaxin Work?
When you receive Covaxin, your immune system detects the inactivated virus particles and starts building defenses against them. Here’s how it works:
1. Recognition – Your body identifies the inactivated virus as a foreign invader.
2. Antibody Production – Your immune system creates antibodies (protective proteins) to fight the virus.
3. Memory Cells – Even after the vaccine is gone, your immune system remembers the virus, so if you are exposed to COVID-19 later, your body can respond quickly.
This process helps reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19.
Who Should Get Covaxin?
Covaxin is approved for adults and children above 12 years (as per Indian guidelines). It is especially recommended for:
People with comorbidities (like diabetes, heart disease, or lung conditions).
Healthcare and frontline workers.
Elderly individuals (above 60 years).
Those who haven’t been vaccinated yet.
Who Should Avoid or Consult a Doctor Before Taking Covaxin?
Avoid and consult if you fall in any of these categories:
People with severe allergies to any vaccine component.
Those who had a severe allergic reaction to the first dose.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women (consult a doctor first).
People with active COVID-19 infection (wait until recovery).
Possible Side Effects of Covaxin
Like all vaccines, Covaxin may cause mild and temporary side effects, which are signs that your body is building protection. Common side effects include:
Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
Mild fever, fatigue, or headache.
Body ache or chills.
These symptoms usually go away in 1-2 days. Serious side effects are very rare.
When to Seek Medical Help?
If you experience:
Difficulty breathing.
Severe allergic reactions (swelling, rash, dizziness).
High fever lasting more than 2 days.
Consult a doctor immediately.
Effectiveness of Covaxin
Studies show that Covaxin is highly effective in preventing severe COVID-19.
78% effective against symptomatic COVID-19.
100% effective in preventing severe disease and hospitalization.
Provides strong immunity against multiple variants.
Like all vaccines, it may not prevent infection completely but reduces severity and death risk significantly.
Tips Before and After Vaccination
The tips include:
Before Vaccination
Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water.
Eat a light meal – Avoid getting vaccinated on an empty stomach.
Inform your doctor – If you have allergies or medical conditions.
After Vaccination
Rest for 15-30 minutes at the vaccination center.
Apply a cold compress if the injection site is sore.
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol for a day or two.
Monitor for side effects – Most are mild and go away quickly.
Continue Safety Measures After Vaccination
Safety measures to follow include:
Wear a mask in crowded places.
Maintain hand hygiene.
Follow social distancing when necessary.
Myths vs. Facts About Covaxin
Myth: Covaxin is unsafe because it was developed quickly.
Fact: It went through rigorous testing and met all safety standards before approval.
Myth: Vaccines can alter your DNA.
Fact: Covaxin does not interact with DNA—it only trains your immune system.
Myth: If you had COVID-19, you don’t need the vaccine.
Fact: Natural immunity fades—vaccination provides longer and stronger protection.
How to Get Vaccinated?
You can book your Covaxin dose easily through Apollo 24|7:
1. Visit Apollo 24|7 Website/App.
2. Select "Book Vaccine" and choose Covaxin.
3. Pick a slot at your nearest center.
4. Get vaccinated safely!
Final Thoughts
Covaxin is a safe, effective, and trusted vaccine that has helped millions stay protected from COVID-19. If you haven’t been vaccinated yet, consider getting your dose soon to protect yourself and others.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult a top general practitioner for the best advice
Dr Summaiya Banu
General Practitioner
8 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
(150+ Patients)
Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
General Practitioner
3 Years • MD (Physician)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Rohinipriyanka Reddy
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Mainak Baksi
General Practitioner
13 Years • MBBS , MD (MPH)
Howrah
Mainak Baksi Clinic, Howrah
(50+ Patients)
Consult Top Specialists
Dr Summaiya Banu
General Practitioner
8 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
(150+ Patients)
Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
General Practitioner
3 Years • MD (Physician)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Rohinipriyanka Reddy
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Mainak Baksi
General Practitioner
13 Years • MBBS , MD (MPH)
Howrah
Mainak Baksi Clinic, Howrah
(50+ Patients)
