Covid-19, inactivated virus

Covid-19, inactivated virus vaccine is an inactivated (killed) version of the virus that causes Covid-19. It is given by injection as a single dose. The vaccine works by introducing a weakened form of the virus into the body which triggers an immune response without causing the person to suffer from the disease. This allows the body to build up immunity to the virus, reducing the risk of infection if the person is exposed to the virus in the future.

Inactivated COVID-19 vaccines are a type of vaccine that uses a weakened or inactive form of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to help the body develop immunity to COVID-19.

Here's how it works:

  1. Virus is grown: The SARS-CoV-2 virus is grown in a lab using cell cultures. These cell cultures are often derived from monkey or hamster kidney cells.
  2. Virus is inactivated: Once the virus has grown to sufficient levels, it is then inactivated using a chemical treatment, such as formalin, or radiation. This process destroys the virus's ability to replicate, but it still keeps the virus particle intact.
  3. Vaccine is formulated: The inactivated virus particles are then purified and mixed with other ingredients, such as adjuvants, which help to boost the immune response.
  4. Vaccination: The vaccine is injected into the person's arm. The immune system recognizes the inactivated virus as foreign and mounts an immune response. This includes the production of antibodies and T cells, which can help to protect the person from future infection with SARS-CoV-2.

Inactivated COVID-19 vaccines have been around for many years and have been used to safely and effectively prevent other viral diseases, such as polio and influenza. Several inactivated COVID-19 vaccines have been developed and are being used around the world. Examples include Sinopharm and CoronaVac.

Advantages of inactivated COVID-19 vaccines

  • Inactivated vaccines have a well-established safety record.
  • They can be produced using well-understood manufacturing processes.
  • They may be effective against a broad range of SARS-CoV-2 variants.

Disadvantages of inactivated COVID-19 vaccines

  • Inactivated vaccines may require multiple doses to achieve optimal effectiveness.
  • They may not be as effective as some other types of COVID-19 vaccines, such as mRNA vaccines.
  • Inactivated COVID-19 vaccines may cause more side effects than some other types of vaccines.

Overall, inactivated COVID-19 vaccines are a safe and effective way to help prevent COVID-19. They are an important tool in the fight against the pandemic.

Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification
J - Antiinfectives for systemic use
J07 Vaccines
J07B - Viral vaccines
J07BN Covid-19 vaccines