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A pilot project for vaccination against coronavirus infection using the Russian Sputnik V vaccine has started in Hyderabad, India, RIA Novosti reports.
According to one of the largest biopharmaceutical companies in the country, Dr. Reddy's, further shipments of the drug are expected soon. The vaccine will then be produced at sites in India.
A single dose of the vaccine costs nearly $13 in India (not including a 5% tax). When the production of the vaccine begins in India, the cost will decrease. Dr. Reddy's promised that they will do everything to ensure wide coverage of the Sputnik V vaccine.
Dr. Reddy's is partnering with the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) to release Sputnik V for use in India and other countries.
The use of the Russian Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine was approved in India in mid-April. The vaccine has become the 3rd approved for use. Prior to that, the country approved Covishield, it is made in India using the technologies of the AstraZeneca company. The Covaxin vaccine has also been approved.
The epidimiological situation has dramatically worsened in India. Two weeks ago, more than 22 tons of humanitarian aid was delivered from Russia, including the 70 ventilators, 150 monitors, equipment for the production of oxygen. In addition, India received 200,000 packages of medicine.
The Russian authorities have decided to support India "in the spirit of friendship and especially privileged strategic partnership." This measure is aimed at countering the spread of coronavirus infection.
Russkiy Mir
