China Enters Phase 2 Clinical Trials for COVID-19 Vaccine

Efficacy of Vaccine Confirmed in 500 Healthy Adults Aged 18 and Over

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Young-shin] The Chinese state-run Global Times reported on the 13th that Phase 2 clinical trials of a novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine have begun in Wuhan, China, on the 12th (local time).

The Global Times added that Phase 2 clinical trials are being conducted on 500 healthy adults aged 18 and over who have not been diagnosed with COVID-19.

The first 100 participants received the vaccine after undergoing nucleic acid tests, HIV tests, blood, and urine tests, the Global Times reported.

Phase 2 clinical trials are divided into three groups according to the vaccine dosage. 250 participants receive a medium dose vaccine, 125 receive a low dose vaccine, and the remaining 125 are given a placebo (fake vaccine). Phase 2 trials aim to find the optimal vaccine dosage. Participants will be tested for antibody production 28 days after vaccination.

The Global Times quoted an expert based in Beijing who requested anonymity, stating that Phase 1 trials focused on the vaccine's safety and immunity, while Phases 2 and 3 will evaluate the vaccine's efficacy.

In Phase 1, some side effects such as fever, pain, redness, and swelling were observed. The Global Times added that most participants returned to normal within 24 hours after vaccination.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.