Oxford University breakthrough on global COVID-19 vaccine

Preliminary phase III data (n>24,000; 131 Covid-19 cases) suggest ChAdOx1 nCoV-2019 vaccine is 70.4% effective, with 90% efficacy if administered at half dose then full dose, or 62% efficacy if administered in 2 full doses. A reduction in asymptomatic infections also observed.

SPS commentary:

 Additional findings include the following:

 

  • There were no hospitalised or severe cases in anyone who received the vaccine.
  • The vaccine can be easily administered in existing healthcare systems, stored at ‘fridge temperature’ (2-8 °C) and distributed using existing logistics.
  • Large scale manufacturing ongoing in over 10 countries to support equitable global access.

 

 

According to the BBC, Oxford's manufacturing partner, AstraZeneca, is preparing to make three billion doses worldwide.

 

The Oxford vaccine, at a price of around £3, also costs far less than Pfizer's (around £15) or Moderna's (£25) vaccines.

Oxford University

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