“‹Millions of Filipinos stand to benefit from the results of Covovax licensed by Novavax following the global announcement of final efficacy analysis of the UK Phase 3 trials of the vaccine on Tuesday (Philippine Time).
Philippine Covovax distributor Faberco Life Sciences, citing the results released by Novavax in the US, said that the vaccine provides 100 % protection against severe cases of COVID 19 and 96.4 percent efficacy against the original strain of COVID-19.
The UK Phase 3 trials also concluded that Covovax registered a 90.9% efficacy in adults with high-risk medical comorbidities and 88.9% efficacy in adults over the age of 65 years old.
Likewise, the trials results confirmed that the vaccine provides 100 % protection against severe diseases caused by the South Africa and UK variants of COVID 19. It also showed 86.3% efficacy against B.1.1.7 UK variant and 55.4% efficacy among HIV-negative participants, with the vast majority of cases due to the B.1.351 South Africa escape variant.
Due to the encouraging results, numerous studies have been expanded to include adolescents (12-17 years old), pregnant women, as well as on its potential use as booster and in combination with other COVID-19 vaccines, and for seasonal revaccination.
With new developments announced by Novavax, Faberco Life Sciences, will proceed with Emergency Use Authorization application with the Philippine FDA using published data and other relevant information provided by Serum Institute of India (SII)
Novavax has expanded its manufacturing capacity, with several partners including world’s largest vaccine manufacturer, Serum Institute of India, to meet the global demand to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Faberco and Serum Institute of India endeavor to commence delivery of the vaccines in the 3rd Quarter of this year.
Apart from these, Covovax is anchored on its basic strengths which make it ideal for roll out in the Philippines: high efficacious, highly adaptable platform, stability at two- to eight-degree Celsius, and its favorable safety profile.