The Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Stephen Hahn said it was “troubling” that a new survey found that more than a quarter of adults “definitely” or “probably” would not accept a free coronavirus vaccine.
During a discussion about the possible timetable for developing a vaccine, Hahn was asked what happens if all those people refuse.
“It is a considerable number. And it’s worrying. And, of course, the subject of vaccines in this country has been around for several years, “This Week said on ABC News.
“What I can say is that one of the main reasons we issued this guide was that we wanted to clarify what we were going to see, what we needed to see, and that the FDA, the nation’s FDA, has incredible experience scientific and we will do our work to assess the safety and efficacy of a vaccine candidate, “he continued.
“I want to assure the American people of that and give confidence that we are at work.”
The ABC News / Washington Post survey found that 27 percent were wary of receiving a vaccine. Of these, half said they don’t trust vaccines and 23 percent said they didn’t think it was necessary.
But 71 percent of respondents said they “definitely” or “probably” would receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
Hahn said a vaccine was being developed with “unprecedented” speed, but fell short of President Trump’s prediction on Saturday that one could be ready before the end of the year.
“I can’t predict when a vaccine will be available. And I just want to tell you about the FDA’s role in this. Yes, we are seeing unprecedented speed for vaccine development, “said Hahn.
“But as you know … we issued guidance on the development of vaccines last week because we want to be very clear, our solemn promise to the American people is that we will make a data and science-based decision about a vaccine regarding safety and effectiveness of that vaccine. “
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