In a major boost to the UAE's ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has approved the emergency use of Sinopharm CNBG's new recombinant protein vaccine. The decision was taken after strict monitoring and evaluation of the data of the study of the vaccine conducted in the UAE.

The ministry noted that the approval for emergency use of the new vaccine has been given in line with the regulations and laws regarding a faster review of licensing procedures. In coordination with relevant healthcare authorities, the ministry has been ensuring consistent efforts to strengthen the protection of community members against COVID-19.

The UAE-based study saw the participation of individuals who were vaccinated with two doses of the inactivated vaccine developed by Sinopharm CNBG. The study found the seroconversion rate up to 100% in neutralizing antibodies. The vaccine displayed high safety rates and no noticeable side effects among all participants.

The ministry also underlined that the vaccine helped in improving immune capacity against the SARS-CoV-2 variants, demonstrating a high safety rate to facilitate rapid production, easy storage and hassle-free distribution.

The results of the study also showed significant immune response against emerging variants of the virus among volunteers who were previously vaccinated with both doses of the Sinopharm CNBG's inactivated vaccine.

The vaccine approval further demonstrates the UAE's continuous efforts to enhance the health and wellbeing of community members against the pandemic.

Booster dose

According to the ministry, the new vaccine will be produced and distributed by Hayat Biotech - the Joint Venture between G42 and Sinopharm CNBG. It will be available for public use as a booster dose effective January 2022 in line with the ongoing measures contain the spread of the virus.

Earlier this month, the UAE emerged as one of the world's most vaccinated countries with 100 percent eligible people having received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccines. As of December 23, 2021, the UAE administered more than 22 million COVID-19 vaccine doses across the country.

The UAE achieved positive outcomes through its nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive launch last year with the robust support and commitment displayed by all community members. Their confidence in the UAE's health sector and vaccination drive served as a turning point in the UAE's fight against the virus and promoted recovery to normal life.

Meanwhile, the ministry has stressed the significance of continuing strict compliance with preventive and healthy behaviours to maintain the achievements and protect the community against emerging virus variants.

WAM