UK Approves Pfizer’s Coronavirus Vaccine

The UK has become the first country in the world to approve BNT162, the coronavirus vaccine developed by Pfizer-BioNTech. Pfizer Inc along with its German partner BioNTech SE, commenced its Phase III trials on 27th July. Within a span of six months, the Pfizer-BioNTech got approval for emergency-use authorization by the UK. Pfizer Inc and BioNTech SE have claimed to provide up to 95% protection against coronavirus through BNT162.

As per a statement from the U.K. Government, the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine will be available in Britain from next week.

“Recommendation from the independent MHRA for approval of Pfizer-BioNTech’s coronavirus vaccine has been accepted by the government to bring the vaccine into use. After a long phase of rigorous clinical trials and detailed data analysis by MHRA experts, who confirmed the vaccine meets strict safety, quality, and effectiveness standards, the vaccine has been approved," said the UK government.

While the UK, the first Western country to approve the coronavirus vaccine after beating the US, has allowed the vaccination to begin next week, India is in talks with Pfizer for the possibilities of roll out of the vaccine.

Roma Nair, Pfizer spokeswoman said, “We are looking forward to committing our dialogue with the government of India. In fact, we are working on a global basis with governments to have an understanding of the infrastructure requirements. We have our logistical plans in place. Also, we are sure the rollout in India can be managed.”

Unlike the UK, US, and the European Union, India does not have a pre-order agreement with Pfizer. At present, the focus of the Indian government is on five other coronavirus vaccine candidates, being tested by Zydus Cadila, Serum Institute, Bharat Biotech, Biological E, and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories.