The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved the Covid-19 Oxford Vaccine Trial request to trial a vaccine to prevent Covid-19 in a little over one working week.
Scientists in Oxford started working on designing a vaccine early in January 2020, and have now identified one to start the first clinical testing phase. If the vaccine is proven to be safe and effective in this and larger trials, it could protect people and help save lives.
The project is supported by a joint funding scheme between the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).
Dr June Raine, chief executive for the MHRA, said: “The dedicated scientific advice and rapid approval of this important clinical trial demonstrate our commitment to working together to find a vaccine for this pandemic.
“We support the development and expedite authorisation of clinical trials for Covid-19 treatments, whilst maintaining our high regulatory standards to ensure the safety of people involved in the trials.
“Protecting health and saving lives is at the forefront of our work, and we are committed to enabling the development of safe and effective vaccines and treatments for this virus.”
