Russia Registers COVID Vaccine, Scientists Skeptical

August 11, 2020 Coronavirus, Russia

Russia on Tuesday became the first country to clear a coronavirus vaccine and declare it ready for use, despite international skepticism. President Vladimir Putin said that one of his daughters has already been inoculated.

Putin emphasized that the vaccine underwent the necessary tests and has proven efficient, offering a lasting immunity from the coronavirus. However, scientists at home and abroad have been sounding the alarm that the rush to start using the vaccine before Phase 3 trials — which normally last for months and involve thousands of people — could backfire.

Speaking at a government meeting Tuesday, Putin said that the vaccine has undergone proper testing and is safe.

BREAKING: Russia has officially registered a coronavirus vaccine developed by the Moscow-based Gamaleya Institute, President Vladimir Putin said.

Reports about Russia’s vaccine have come amid concerns about its safety and effectiveness. https://t.co/ZfBsmoX21C

— CNN International (@cnni) August 11, 2020