Amidst the ongoing tensions of COVID-19, every day seems to be down and depressed. However, as the saying goes, there’s light at the end of every tunnel. The light here came right after Russia approved a COVID vaccine in less than two weeks.
This morning, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the launch of the world’s first COVID-19 vaccine. He said that the registered vaccine had been tested and was now safe to be widely used by the people. He claimed that one of his daughters has also been vaccinated. He emphasized that all the necessary tests and trials had been conducted and the vaccine proved to show great results amongst patients. He further ordered the government to get at least 60% of the Russian population vaccinated post-registration. “I know that it works quite effectively, forms strong immunity, and I repeat, it has passed all the needed checks,” said Putin.Â
The registered vaccine is jointly developed by Gamaleya Research Institute and the Russian Defence Ministry. The trials began on June 18 including 38 volunteers who are reported to be healthy with developed immunity as reported in the statement released by the Russian Defense Ministry.
Although the registration of the vaccine is conditional, trials are likely to continue while the process of mass production takes place. The mass supply of the same is expected by October, however, high-risk members like medical workers and frontline warriors are expected to be given a chance by month-end. As soon as the vaccine gets full approval, medical workers will have the chance to volunteer for the same.
It is imperative to note that a few days back, Putin ordered the state officials to shorten the clinical trials for all, including the novel coronavirus. Thus, many health officials, industrial bodies and pharmaceutical companies have called Russia’s rushed registration dangerous. The decision is being questioned for its impulsive nature. On the other hand, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has accepted Russia’s offer, volunteering to take the first shot as a gesture of trust and gratitude – as reported by ThelivemintÂ
As Russia announces the world’s first COVID-19 vaccine there are speculations and questions in every corner with an added impulse, in the race for a perfect vaccine. However, there’s one thing for sure, there’s no giving up!
