Which of the following COVID vaccine is an example of whole-virion, inactivated vaccine?

Appeared in: NORCET 3 - 2022 (Shift-1)

Explanation

COVAXIN is classified as a whole-virion inactivated vaccine, which is a traditional and well-established vaccine technology.
In this method, the entire SARS-CoV-2 virus is isolated and then inactivated (killed), making it incapable of causing disease.
The immune system recognizes the various proteins on the surface of the inactivated virus, including the spike protein, and mounts a broad immune response.
Because the virus is killed, it cannot replicate in the body, but it still effectively teaches the immune system how to fight the live virus.

Option B: COVISHIELD is a viral vector vaccine, not an inactivated virus vaccine. It uses a modified, harmless chimpanzee adenovirus to carry the genetic instructions for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
Option C: Sputnik V is also a viral vector vaccine. It uses two different human adenovirus vectors (Ad26 and Ad5) for its two doses, which is different from an inactivated whole-virion platform.
Option D: Pfizer-BioNTech is an mRNA (messenger RNA) vaccine. This is a newer technology that uses a piece of genetic code to instruct cells to make the spike protein, rather than introducing any part of the actual virus.

*
*

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain COVID-19 Vaccine Platforms as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding vaccine platforms is essential for nurses to provide accurate patient education, address concerns about vaccine safety and mechanism, and manage vaccine administration.
Cold chain management is a critical nursing responsibility. Knowing that mRNA vaccines like Pfizer's require ultra-cold storage, while inactivated and vector vaccines like COVAXIN and COVISHIELD can be stored at standard refrigerator temperatures (2-8°C), is vital for maintaining vaccine viability.
Nurses must screen for contraindications. For example, a known allergy to a component in an mRNA vaccine (like polyethylene glycol) would make a different platform, such as an inactivated virus vaccine, a necessary consideration.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'whole-virion, inactivated vaccine'. This tells you the specific vaccine technology you need to find.
This is a factual recall question. You need to access your knowledge about the different types of COVID-19 vaccines available.
Consider each option one by one and classify its vaccine platform.
COVAXIN: Recall or identify this as an inactivated vaccine.
COVISHIELD: Recall or identify this as a viral vector vaccine.
Sputnik: Recall or identify this as a viral vector vaccine.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QLvosKtmuxC3JF1Ot4jWCD

Practise the full NORCET 3 - 2022 (Shift-1)

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