Addressing Covid vaccine safety

January 15, 2021 10:30
Photo: Reuters

In response to concerns about the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines to be used in Hong Kong, the government said they must satisfy the relevant requirements and obtain emergency use approval in accordance with the Prevention & Control of Disease (Use of Vaccines) Regulation to ensure safety and efficacy.

In addition to criteria such as safety, efficacy and quality, the regulation also specifies the conditions and procedures which the vaccine manufacturer or its representative, importer, or wholesale dealer must follow.

In particular, the applicant must submit the Phase 3 clinical data of the vaccine concerned, overseas authorisation obtained, and other relevant information, the government said.

The Department of Health is following up with vaccine manufacturers to obtain the relevant data for assessment and approval as soon as possible, it added.

The government aims to provide the latest information on relevant vaccines through different channels to enhance the transparency, and thus public confidence.

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