Staff Reporter
Islamabad
Pakistan on Tuesday launched the phase-III trials for a Covid19 vaccine in the country, Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar said. In a tweet, he said that the vaccine has been developed by a Chinese company.
A total of 40,000 people will participate in this trial in 7 countries, of which 8 to 10, 000 will be Pakistani he said adding that initial results were expected to come in 4 to 6 months.
‘Just launched the phase 3 trials for a Covid19 vaccine in Pakistan. Vaccine has been developed by a Chinese company. A total of 40,000 people will participate in this trial in 7 countries, of which 8 to 10, 000 will be Pakistani. Initial results expected in 4 to 6 months,’ he tweeted.
The clinical trial of COVID-19 vaccine CanSino (phase III) was inaugurated at National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Tuesday. The virtual launching ceremony was attended by Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan, Executive Director National Institute of Health, Chinese delegation and others.
The phase I and II trials had already been held at China.And third phase trial was being held in Pakistan, which was a great achievement in country’s history. Speaking on the occasion Executive Director, National Institute of Health (NIH) Maj Gen Aamir Ikram said the services of around 8,000 adult volunteers have been hired for clinical trial.
The trials would be carried out Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Faisal said the trial will help strengthening our indigenous capabilities. Minister for Planning, Development, Reforms and Special Initiatives Asad Umer expressed his jubilation over the start of trial and presented Souvenirs to Chinese.
