Chinese scientists 99% sure virus vaccine will work

Scientists in China working on a vaccine for the new coronavirus said Thursday that they are 99% sure it will be effective, according to an exclusive report by UK broadcaster Sky.

The vaccine is being developed by Beijing-based biotech firm Sinovac, which claims it is currently in stage two trials with 1,000 participants in clinical trials.

The firm also confirmed to Sky News that it is in talks to carry out the final stage three trials in the UK.

Sky reported that Sinovac is also building a commercial plant in another part of Beijing with the intention of delivering 100 million doses when the vaccine gets final approval for mass rollout.

However, Sinovac is not recommending distribution to the whole population, instead focusing on health workers and the elderly who will be the first to receive the vaccine.

Despite a promising start, the vaccine won't be ready for months, with stage two trials taking several months before stage three and potential regulatory approval.