Russia has begun manufacturing its first coronavirus vaccine, the Health Ministry said on Saturday.
Initial batches of the vaccine will be earmarked for immunizing doctors and health workers, before going to the general public.
Russia officially registered the world’s first coronavirus vaccine, named Sputnik V, developed by the Gamaleya Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, on Tuesday.
SCIENTISTS’ FEAR ON RUSSIA’S VACCINE
The announcement drew skepticism worldwide as Russia plans to continue the third phase of trials along with the vaccine’s production and use.
Some scientists said they suspect Moscow may be putting national prestige before safety.
However, Alexander Gintsburg, head of the Gamaleya Research Institute, defended the approach, saying the vaccine is based on a well-researched scientific platform dating back decades.
SUITABLE FOR PEOPLE AGED BETWEEN 18 AND 60
According to its instruction for use, the vaccine is suitable for people aged between 18 and 60 and can be combined with other antigens, including against the flu.
The vaccine recipients will be monitored by doctors, and a mobile app is also being developed so patients can routinely add data about their condition and quickly inform doctors of possible complications.