Researchers Say The New Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Is 90% Effective In Trial Stages
Researchers working on the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine have shared some positive news about its progression.
According to Pfizer and BioNTech, the American pharmaceutical company and German biotech company developing the vaccine, data shows the shots could be up to 90% effective at preventing COVID-19.
The corporation's senior vice-president of clinical development told The Associated Press, “We're in a position potentially to be able to offer some hope.”
“We’re very encouraged,” he added, via CTV News.
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90%
The vaccine's effectiveness in trial stages
Pfizer says 43,538 volunteers were involved in the study, 42% of whom had “racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds.”
The phase 3 trial began on July 27, and as of November 8, 38,955 volunteers had received a second dose of the possible vaccine.
The company says that “no serious safety concerns” have been recorded so far among those involved.
“This is a first but critical step as we continue our work to try to deliver a safe and effective #COVID19 vaccine,” tweeted the company on Monday.
Earlier this year, Canada agreed to a deal for at least 20 million doses of Pfizer’s mRNA-based vaccine.
Despite the good news, the prime minister urged Canadians not to relax on COVID-19 precautions.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Trudeau said, “To be very clear: if you catch COVID in the coming days and weeks, a vaccine won't help you or your family.”