Covaxin is an indigenous COVID-19 vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Institute of Virology (NIV). Launched in early 2021, Covaxin is an inactivated virus vaccine, meaning it contains killed viral particles that help the body recognize and develop immunity against the coronavirus. As one of the first vaccines to be rolled out in India’s mass vaccination drive, it was approved for emergency use by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) and subsequently used in many countries, contributing to global efforts to combat the pandemic.

Covaxin has been a focal point in India’s vaccination campaign, known for its domestic production and storage compatibility at 2-8°C, making it easier to distribute across the country’s diverse terrain. Despite initial skepticism, Covaxin's efficacy in preventing severe disease and its safety profile have been confirmed in multiple studies, reinforcing its credibility in India’s battle against COVID-19.

In July 2020, BOOM fact-checked a viral message claiming that the Vice President of India received Covaxin.

Bharat Biotech clarified that the image in question showed a routine blood check performed on a production team member, not the Vice President receiving the vaccine.