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UAE Covid vaccine: Russian jab trials open to 500 volunteers

Abu Dhabi - Results from the first two phases show no serious adverse effects.

While a massive Covid-19 vaccination drive is currently underway in the UAE, volunteers are continuing to participate in the Phase 3 clinical trials for the Russian human adenovirus-based vaccine in Abu Dhabi.

Currently open to 500 volunteers, the trials are being conducted by Department of Health in Abu Dhabi (DoH), with joint supervision by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), with medical protocols handled by the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA).

However, volunteers have to meet certain criteria to take part in the trails. They have to be above the age of 18; have not been infected with Covid-19 virus earlier; have not participated in any other Covid-19 trial and do not suffer from any communicable or severe respiratory diseases for at least 14 days

Volunteers will receive two doses of the vaccine, administered 20 days apart, and will be monitored through regular visits and tele-consultations for 180 days after taking the vaccine, in line with the highest international standards, according to a statement issued by Abu Dhabi Media Office.

“The trials are being processed at Tawam Hospital in Al Ain under the clinical supervision of Consultant Physician (Infectious Diseases) Dr. Ahmed Al Hammadi,” said the statement.

“The programme is being conducted under the Vaccine for Victory campaign. Residents can register at www.v4v.ae. Registered individuals will then be contacted to arrange an eligibility screening before beginning the trials.”

Results from the first two phases of the trial, published in medical journal The Lancet, showed a stable humoral and cellular immune response had been achieved among volunteers, with no serious adverse effects recorded. The Phase III clinical trials taking place in the UAE form part of the trials that are taking place in Russia and elsewhere globally.

The vaccine was developed by the Gamaleya National Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com