IISc develops ‘more efficient’ oxygen concentrator, room-temperature vaccine
Karnataka Health Minister seeks IISc help in auditing oxygen bottling and hospital usage
BENGALURU:
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has developed an oxygen concentrator with a capacity of 10 litres per minute, which it claims has an oxygen output of 90% and is more efficient than Chinese concentrators whose output is 40-50%. It has also developed a Covid vaccine which can be stored at room temperature up to 30 degrees C.
Health and Medical Minister Dr K Sudhakar was informed of these developments during an interaction with IISc director Prof Govindan Rangarajan.
🔹Our govt will extend all possible support to @iiscbangalore in expediting clinical validation and obtaining regulatory approvals for oxygen concentrators and collaboration with industry for manufacturing.
— Dr Sudhakar K (@mla_sudhakar) May 13, 2021
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Clinical validation
Prof Rangarajan sought the help of the Minister in expediting clinical validation of the oxygen concentrator and obtaining regulatory approval from Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). Dr Sudhakar said he would take up the matter immediately with the RGUHS Vice-Chancellor and the concerned Union Ministers.
Prof Rangarajan claimed that the vaccine being developed by IISc shows a better neutralising effect than the existing vaccines. The vaccine could be a big breakthrough in India’s battle against the pandemic as it can be stored at room temperatures up to 30℃.
The Health Minister sought IISc’s help in developing an audit mechanism and finding ways for optimal utilisation of oxygen and minimising wastage at both refilling/bottling units and at hospitals. Prof Rangarajan assured the Minister all technical and engineering support on this issue.
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