Haryana Minister, who took trial Covid-19 vaccine shot, tests positive

New Delhi/Ambala:Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij on Saturday tested positive for the novel coronavirus, 15 days after he was administered a trial dose of India-based company -- Bharat Biotech's -- COVID vaccine.

"I have been tested Corona positive. I am admitted in Civil Hospital Ambala Cantt. All those who have come in close contact to me are advised to get themselves tested for corona", the Minister informed through social media.

The pharmaceutical giant had announced the commencement of Phase III trials of its vaccine -- COVAXIN -- on November 16 after which Mr Vij volunteered for its trials.Notably, the trial volunteers were set to receive two intramuscular injections approximately 28 days apart which means that Mr Vij was yet to receive the second dose of the vaccine.

Meanwhile, Bharat Biotech, in a statement, clarified that Covaxin clinical trials are based on a two-dose schedule, given 28 days apart. "The vaccine efficacy will be determined 14-days post the 2nd dose", it said.(UNI)