Take it with a pinch of salt: Scientists doubt Russia's Covid vaccine claim

The announcement should be taken with a pinch of salt, said Indian immunologist Vineeta Bal

Responding with scepticism to Russia's approval of a Covid-19 vaccine, several scientists around the world, including in India, suggest it hasn't been tested properly given the time constraint and there may not be enough evidence to prove its efficacy.

Announcing the breakthrough on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin vouched for the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, named Sputnik V, and said one of his daughters has already received a shot.

While the country hopes to startmass-producing the vaccine byOctober and plans to offer the first doses to essential workers, many in the science community seem unimpressed.

The announcement should