The Serum Institute of India (SII), known for producing AstraZeneca’s Covid vaccine under the brand name Covishield, on Wednesday said that it ceased the manufacturing and distribution of extra doses of the vaccine in December 2021.
After the withdrawal of the Covid vaccine by AstraZeneca, the Serum Institute of India (SII) stated that it acknowledges and fully comprehends the ongoing concerns surrounding the vaccine developed by the UK pharmaceutical major.
On May 7, it was reported that the UK firm announced its decision to globally withdraw its Covid vaccine, citing the availability of numerous newer vaccine options as the reason behind the move.
Additionally, AstraZeneca plans to revoke marketing authorizations for its vaccine, Vaxzevria, within Europe due to reduced demand, leading to the discontinuation of production and supply.
The company stated that with the development of multiple variant Covid-19 vaccines, there is now an excess of updated vaccines available.
London-listed AstraZeneca shifted its focus to respiratory syncytial virus vaccines and obesity drugs through various deals last year, following a decline in growth due to the decrease in COVID-19 medicine sales.
