Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced to the world that his country has developed the world’s first COVID-19 vaccine which is ready for the masses.
“This morning, for the first time in the world, a vaccine against the new coronavirus was registered” in Russia, Mr. Putin said during a televised video conference call with government ministers.
“One of my daughters had this vaccine. I think in this sense she took part in the experiment,” Mr. Putin added.
The Russian President said that the vaccine has proven efficient during tests, offering a lasting immunity from the coronavirus. He emphasized that the vaccine underwent the necessary tests. He added that one of his two daughters has received a shot of the vaccine and is feeling well.
Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko updated that the vaccine’s registration is conditional and trials will continue while the production gets underway.
Russia is preparing for a mass rollout soon with medical workers, teachers and other risk groups to be inoculated first.
Many scientists across the country and abroad have been doubtful an are questioning the decision to register the vaccine before Phase 3 trials that normally last for months and involve thousands of people.
The World Health Organization last week urged Russia to follow established guidelines and go “through all the stages” necessary to develop a safe vaccine
