DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates today officially registered the coronavirus vaccine produced by Chinese drug giant Sinopharm, saying it is 86% effective according to an analysis of Phase 3 trials.
The Health Ministry “has announced the official registration” of the vaccine, said state news agency WAM, without elaborating how it will now be used.
The vaccine has been undergoing Phase 3 trials in the UAE since July, and it was approved for emergency use for healthcare workers in September.
“The announcement is a significant vote of confidence by the UAE’s health authorities in the safety and efficacy of this vaccine,” said WAM.
UAE health officials have reviewed Sinopharm’s interim analysis of the Phase 3 trials that shows it is 86% effective against the coronavirus, according to the report.
“The analysis also shows the vaccine to have a 99% seroconversion rate of neutralising antibody and 100% effectiveness in preventing moderate and severe cases of the disease.
“Furthermore, the analysis shows no serious safety concerns.”
Two vaccines have undergone Phase 3 trials in the UAE, namely the Sinopharm project and Russia’s Sputnik V, named after the Soviet-era satellite.
Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed Rashid Al-Maktoum last month said he has received an experimental Covid-19 vaccine, joining other top UAE officials to take part in the trials. – AFP, December 9, 2020
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