OdishaPlus Bureau
The Philippines is all set to conduct the Phase 3 of clinical trials of Russia’s COVID-19 vaccine from October 2020 to March 2021. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the conduct of the trials will be funded by the Russian government and will be done simultaneously in Manila and Moscow.
— Harry Roque (@attyharryroque) August 11, 2020
During Phase 3 of the clinical trials, thousands of patients will have to be vaccinated to test its safety and efficacy. By April 2021, the vaccine is expected to be approved by the Philippines’ Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Roque noted.
Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier announced Moscow has registered world’s first COVID-19 vaccine which has now infected more than 20 million people. While some, including President Duterte, are upbeat about the development, some questions the vaccine’s safety and efficacy due to Russia’s lack of transparency over the supposed scientific breakthrough.
He also expressed confidence about the effectiveness of Russia’s vaccine, which he said will be ready by December, when “the Philippines will be free of COVID-19 and will be able to enjoy a peaceful Christmas.” As of Wednesday, there are 143,749 confirmed COVID-19 cases nationwide, including 68,997 recoveries, and 2,404 deaths.