A US-developed vaccine produced by Moderna is shown to be 94.5% effective judging by interim results, in what is being seen as further positive news in the fight against COVID-19.
One of the benefits of the Moderna vaccine is that the vaccine has also been shown to last for up to 30 days in household fridges and at room temperature for up to 12 hours. It also remains stable at -20C, equal to most household or medical freezers, for up to six months.
The UK government is said to be in “advanced discussions” with Moderna to get access to their vaccine.
A spokesperson for Moderna said: “Since early January, we have chased this virus with the intent to protect as many people around the world as possible. All along, we have known that each day matters.
“This positive interim analysis from our Phase 3 study has given us the first clinical validation that our vaccine can prevent COVID-19 disease, including severe disease.”
