WHO says it's discussing prequalification of 'world's first' COVID-19 vaccine with Russia

After Russian President Vlimir Putin’s anuncement of ‘world’s first’ COVID-19 vaccine caused a stir across globe, World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that UN health ncy and Russian health authorities are discussing process of possible WHO prequalification for same. According to reports, WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic told a UN briefing in Geneva on Tuesday that organisation is in ‘close contact’ with health authorities in Russia in regards to prequalification that includes rigorous review and assessment of all required safety and efficacy data. 

Russian state media reported on August 10 of Russian President Vlimir Putin anuncing approval of coronavirus vaccine named after Earth’s first satellite ‘Sputnik’ by health ministry. Putin h said that COVID-19 vaccine developed in country h undergone required tests and it gave promising results of providing lasting immunity to disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. Russian President even claimed that one of his two ult daughters has alrey been iculated. But, according to reports, Russian authorities have offered proof to back claims of safety or effectiveness. 

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US expressed doubt over Russia’s COVID-19 vaccine

United States has expressed its scepticism over Russia anuncing ‘world’s first’ coronavirus vaccine on Tuesday. US Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar has reportedly said that it is more essential to have a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine than acing race of being first one to produce.

While replying to question on ABC, US Health and Human Services Secretary said, “ point is t to be first with a vaccine. point is to have a vaccine that is safe and effective for American people and people of world.” Alex Azar also ted that United States alrey has at least six vaccines for vel coronavirus under Operation Warp Speed initiative.

White House counsellor Kellyanne Conway has also expressed doubts about testing that backed Russia’s claim of developing coronavirus vaccine. She said that United States has ‘more stringent’ standards to entire procedure. Meanwhile, global coronavirus cases have surpassed 20.1 million with over 737,900 deaths as per Johns Hopkins University tally.

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(With ncy inputs)

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