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Rome, September 15, 2020 – Anti-Covid vaccine, after the AstraZeneca stop-and-go, eyes on Pfizer. There are eight trials in the world in process, that is, with tests in volunteers in the clinical phase. Who will cross the finish line first? The Oxford solution, making headlines these days, has had an undesirable effect, but there is an alternative that comes to the fore. We discussed it with Valentina Marino, Pfizer’s chief medical officer. Doctor, the EU Commission on September 9 reserved for the last time millions of doses of the Pfizer vaccine, betting on the success of the company. Where are we with the …
Rome, September 15, 2020 – Vaccine for COVID-19, after the stop-and-go of AstraZeneca eyes on Pfizer. There are eight trials in the world on the home straight, that is, with tests on volunteers in the clinical phase. Who will cross the finish line first? The Oxford solution, in the news these days, has had an undesirable effect, but there is an alternative that comes to the fore. We talk about it with Valentina Marino, Pfizer Chief Medical Officer.
Doctor, the EU Commission on September 9 reserved for the last time millions of doses of the Pfizer vaccine, betting on the success of the company. Where are we with the preparation?
“We are conducting trials on thirty thousand people worldwide in the United States, Argentina, Brazil and Germany. At the moment there are no serious adverse events. Phase I-II studies have shown good results. We are now in phase III, the subjects are vaccinated. between 18 and 85 years old. It would be unwise to predict the final result of the tests, the results are expected by the end of October, so soon ”.
How do you manage to get immune protection against such a contagious virus?
“This vaccine, which still has no name but has an identification code (BNT-162), carries a messenger RNA inside the cells, causing them to produce the antigen, in this case the peak protein, thus determining the synthesis of antibodies. neutralizing towards Sars-Cov-2 “.
How will the lots be classified?
“Like other biological medicines, these molecules must be stored at -80 degrees Celsius, so the cold chain must be maintained until the moment of administration.”
Once you are sure the vaccine is effective and safe, what will be the technical timelines for getting it to those who need it most?
“If the evolution is favorable, we can expect that the distribution of a first quantity of one hundred million doses before the end of the year will reach one thousand million and 300 million in later times, all over the world. In Europe, the contacts are in March between Pfizer, Biontech and the EU to decide the modalities, therefore also the price. Europe has stipulated a purchase option equivalent to 200 million doses to distribute in member countries, with an additional option to reach 300 million doses. total dose ”.
In practice, how will vaccination be carried out in clinics?
“In our trial, a vaccine is used in two doses of 30 micrograms, given three weeks apart. Of course, regulatory authorities will decide whether this vaccine has reached a definitive and valid level of efficacy and safety in order for it to be disseminated. on a large scale. “
In the terrible days of the epidemic, he promoted the free home delivery service for life-saving drugs. You are in the field of meningitis and pneumonia prevention. What has Covid taught?
“This collaboration between the pharmaceutical industries, governments and regulatory bodies is essential. Health is a valuable asset, which must be sought together, through a collective effort.”
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