The screening of children for clinical trials of Covaxin will start at AIIMS in Delhi on Monday, reports said quoting sources. Similar trials have started at AIIMS in Patna. The AIIMS in the national capital will conduct clinical trials of the Covid-19 vaccine made by Bharat Biotech to see if it is suitable for children between two and 18 years old.
Dr VK Paul, a senior NITI Aayog member, last month said the phase 2/3 trials will be conducted on children aged between two and 18. The centre had given its clearance to the clinical trials on May 13.
Experts have warned that a possible third wave of coronavirus in India could target children. However, the vaccines being used in India - Covaxin, Covishield and Sputnik V - have not been approved for use on children.