AstraZeneca said that the data from the Phase III clinical trial found that its coronavirus vaccine is 79% effective against symptomatic infection and 100% in protecting against severe disease and hospitalizations.
The study found no safety issues with the vaccine, which has been under scrutiny in other countries over concerns it may cause blood clots. Over dozen countries briefly stopped distributing AstraZeneca's vaccine but have since resumed after regulators assured health officials that the vaccine is safe.
"This analysis validates the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine as a much-needed additional vaccination option, offering confidence that adults of all ages can benefit from protection against the virus," Ann Falsey, a professor of medicine and co-lead principal investigator for the trial, said.
The vaccine, which costs just $4 per dose, can be stored at normal refrigerated temperatures between 36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit and can last up to six months.
Now that the U.S. clinical trials are complete, the pharmaceutical company will apply for an emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is unknown how long that process will take.
The U.S. has pre-ordered 300 million doses and will be ready to distribute them if the vaccine is approved.
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