21 Oct
A Russian health official says Russia will start administering a domestically-developed vaccine against the new coronavirus as early as November, despite some experts' concerns about its safety.
Russia's Gamaleya National Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology developed the vaccine. The head of the research center, Alexander Gintsburg, spoke to reporters about the schedule on Tuesday.
Gintsburg stated that the vaccine will be given to doctors and teachers in November. He said that others who wish to get it will receive it after that, regardless of their occupation.
The Russian government approved the vaccine in August. It is called "Sputnik V." It is named after the world's first satellite, which was launched by the former Soviet Union in 1957.
About 40,000 people are currently taking part in the final stage of the vaccine's clinical trials. But a Russian pharmaceutical company is already expanding production.
Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said on Tuesday that he is proud that the world's first vaccine against the coronavirus is being produced in his country. He said Russia will quickly provide the vaccine to other nations.
Some experts in Russia say they are concerned about administering the vaccine before the final stage of clinical trials is complete. They say there is no need to rush the process.
NHK
