What type of vaccine is Covishield?

Appeared in: Punjab CHO - 2021

Explanation

Covishield is classified as a viral vector vaccine, specifically using a non-replicating chimpanzee adenovirus vector (ChAdOx1).
This vaccine type uses a modified, harmless virus (the vector) to deliver the genetic instructions for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to human cells.
The cells then produce the spike protein, which triggers an immune response against the actual coronavirus.
Since 'Viral vector vaccine' is not an option, and Covishield is neither an inactivated nor a live attenuated vaccine, 'None of these' is the only correct choice.

Option A: This is incorrect. Inactivated vaccines use a killed version of the entire virus. Covishield does not contain the killed SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Option B: This is incorrect. Live attenuated vaccines use a weakened form of the actual virus. Covishield uses a different, harmless virus (an adenovirus) as a delivery vehicle and does not contain a weakened SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Option C: This option is incorrect because neither Option A nor Option B accurately describes Covishield.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of COVID-19 Vaccines as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding vaccine types is crucial for nurses to provide accurate patient education, address concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy, and correctly manage and report potential adverse events.
Different vaccine platforms have different storage requirements (e.g., ultra-cold for mRNA vs. refrigeration for viral vector), which is a critical nursing and logistical consideration in vaccination campaigns.
Knowing the mechanism helps in explaining why certain side effects (like mild fever or local soreness) are a normal sign of the immune system building protection.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core subject of the question, which is 'Covishield' and its 'type'.
Recall or look up the specific classification of the Covishield vaccine. You should know it's a viral vector vaccine.
Carefully read each option provided: A) Inactivated, B) Live attenuated, C) Both, D) None of these.
Compare the known classification ('viral vector') with the given options.
Recognize that 'viral vector' is not listed as an option.
Therefore, conclude that the correct choice is 'None of these'.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Microbiology Essentials Sastry 4e Part 1 p. 99-101

E6 Pharmacology KD Tripathi Essentials 9e Part 3 p. 290-292

E6 Textbook of Biochemistry for medical StudentsDM Vasudevan Part 2 — Subpart B (pp 240-463 of 478) p. 170-172

Practise the full Punjab CHO - 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.