Novavax Releases Efficacy Data
Anonym
/ Categories: WELLNESS, 2021

Novavax Releases Efficacy Data

Novavax, a Maryland-based pharmaceutical company, released its Phase 3 clinical trial results for its COVID-19 vaccine on Monday, and they are good. The vaccine demonstrated 90% overall efficacy and 100% protection against moderate and severe disease. Here’s what you need to know:

  • The U.S. study enrolled 29,960 participants across 119 sites in the U.S. and Mexico to evaluate efficacy, safety, and immune response.
  • The trial was placebo-controlled, observer-blinded, and randomized. Only 14 cases occurred among those that received the vaccine, and none were severe.
  • Many of the variants that raised concern were circulating during this trial. In fact, the UK variant became the dominant strain in the United States during the trial.  
  • Like Pfizer and Moderna, the Novavax vaccine is delivered in two doses. They are given a month apart.
  • The technology used to make the Novavax vaccine is different than the others that have been given authorization so far. It uses purified spike protein and an adjuvant, which is a substance designed to enhance the immune response. The technology is not new. It has actually been used in a vaccine that prevent leukemia in cats! And adjuvants are used in many vaccines, including those for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and diphtheria-tetanus.
  • This vaccine is easy to store. It requires only basic refrigeration.
  • The company is expected to seek Food and Drug Administration approval in September. Because many vaccines are now available in the United States, the company may be required to seek a full license, rather than the Emergency Use Authorization allowed for companies who made their vaccines available earlier.
  • While all of the vaccines made available so far are safe and effective, the Novavax vaccine may be a good option for those who feel most comfortable with a more traditional type of vaccine. 
  • Many other parts of the world still need vaccines. Novavax will apply for authorization in Britain, the European Union, India, and South Korea.

While each of the vaccines is a little different, what’s most important is that they all work exceptionally well to protect against COVID-19. I encourage those who have not yet received a vaccine to get one as soon as possible. Locally, SVMC’s Respiratory Evaluation Center/ExpressCare is offering vaccines to walk-ins 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. every day, even on weekends.

Marie George, MD, FIDSA, is Southwestern Vermont Medical Center’s infectious disease specialist.

Print
3722

Theme picker

Theme picker


Theme picker


Our Services

PARTNERSHIP IS POWERFUL MEDICINE

A commitment to excellence and a patient-centered approach sets Southwestern Vermont Health Care apart.

 Cancer Care
 Orthopedics
 Emergency
 Maternity
 Primary Care
 ExpressCare
 Cardiology
 Rehab & Residential Care
View All Services

Theme picker

Theme picker

Theme picker