India has developed a vaccine tracker to provide information on various aspects of vaccination such as its effectiveness post-inoculation. The tracker has been developed by combining data from the Co-WIN portal, National Covid-19 testing database and Covid-19 India portal. This was stated by ICMR Director General Balram Bhargava, at a media briefing of the Union Health Ministry.

The tracker will also provide data to monitor reinfection and breakthrough infections. The data has so far indicated the same effect across all age groups in preventing mortality, Bhargava said.

The tracker gives week by week coverage of the first and second dose of vaccine and also their effectiveness.

Analysis of data shows that a single dose of the Covid-19 vaccine (irrespective of the brand), is 96.6 per cent effective in preventing death, whereas two doses provide a 97.5 per cent shield, Bhargava added.

Bhargava said low-key observation of festivals this year will provide an opportunity to celebrate them in a bigger way next year. He also emphasised responsible travel rather than revenge travel.

The official added that the use of protective masks needs to be continued.