China’s Covid‑19 Vaccines Set to Roll Out for the Public by November
China is racing toward a full‑public rollout of four Covid‑19 vaccines, a spokesperson from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced. Three of the vaccines have already been rolled out to essential workers under an emergency use programme launched in July, and the latest update suggests that they could be ready for the general public as early as November or December.
Phase 3 Is Proving Smooth
Guizhen Wu, the CDC’s chief biosafety expert, told state TV that Phase 3 trials are proceeding without a hitch. She added that she herself had taken an experimental vaccine in April and has reported no abnormal symptoms. However, she didn’t specify which vaccines pleased her.
Who’s Developing the Shots?
- Sinopharm and Sinovac Biotech – both part of China’s state-owned pharmaceutical ecosystem – are developing three of the vaccines under the emergency use programme.
- CanSino Biologics has approved its fourth candidate for use by the Chinese military in June, with hopes for broader availability next.
- Sinopharm announced in July that its vaccine could be available for the public by the end of the year after concluding Phase 3 trials.
Global Rankings and Standards
Around the world, vaccine makers are in a spectacle of speed and scientific scrutiny. Leading Western companies have pledged earlier this month to stay true to rigorous research standards, refusing any political pressure that might rush the process.
Keep Updated
For the latest on the coronavirus, keep checking for new updates here.
