UK approves COVID-19 vaccine developed by AstraZeneca, Oxford
The United Kingdom became the first nation to approve the COVID-19 vaccine codeveloped by AstraZeneca and Oxford University.
The U.K. Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approved the two-dose vaccine for use in adults aged 18 years or older, with a second dose given 4 to 12 weeks after the first dose.
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Study data has shown that two standard doses of the vaccine is 62.1% effective against COVID-19, whereas it was recorded to be 90% effective among participants who received a half dose, followed by a standard dose, for an average efficacy of 70%.
Unlike some other COVID-19 vaccines, the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine can be stored at above-freezing temperatures of between 36°F and 46°F, similar to a conventional refrigerator, meaning it can be kept and administered in existing health care settings, U.K. health officials noted.
“This approval means more people can be protected against this virus and will help save lives,” June Raine, chief executive of the MHRA, said in a press release. “This is another significant milestone in the fight against this virus. We will continue to support and work across the health care system to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines are rolled out safely across the U.K. Protecting health and improving lives is our mission and what we strive for.”
The MHRA said it will continue testing vaccines to ensure their safety and quality.
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