A moderately effective vaccine already approved in several major markets may be available for limited use in Thailand sooner than expected.
The AstraZeneca vaccine developed with Oxford University and approved for use in the United Kingdom and United States is expected to win FDA authorization for emergency as early as this week. It could then reach patients as soon as next month, according to a top health official.
The FDA review of the British- and Swedish-developed vaccine’s efficacy and safety is looking good so far, Disease Control Department Director Opas Karnkawinpong said today. The vaccine could be used for the highest-priority cases in February, including medical personnel and people with underlying conditions.
While some regional neighbors have already begun inoculations, Thailand is lagging behind. No vaccines were expected until next month’s arrival…
