Novavax vaccine could be approved in weeks which works against UK variant

A fourth vaccine could be approved within weeks as trials show the Novavax jab offers 86% protection against the new Covid variant.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are currently assessing Novavax, and if approved it will be rolled out later this year.

The UK has ordered 60m doses which will be manufactured in Stockton-on-Tees, and is also effective against the South African variant by 60%.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the NHS are prepared to roll out the vaccine quickly if authorised.

Hancock added, “This is positive news and, if approved by the medicines regulator, the Novavax vaccine will be a significant boost to our vaccination programme and another weapon in our arsenal to beat this awful virus.”

A highly effective vaccine to add to the medical countermeasures against COVID-19 trialed in the UK. If it gets MHRA approval this increases our future resilience, including against the B.1.1.7 variant. Many thanks to all trial volunteers and those who conducted the research. https://t.co/JIqtu9UglA

— Professor Chris Whitty (@CMO_England) January 29, 2021