The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has granted authorization for the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, now to be deployed across the European Union in individuals aged 18 and above. This decision marks a significant step in expanding the EU's arsenal against the ongoing pandemic, offering a new tool to combat the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable populations. The first shipments are anticipated to arrive in Europe starting next week.
The decision is based on data from clinical trials involving approximately 30,000 volunteers. The trials demonstrated a 94.1% efficacy rate in reducing the symptoms of COVID-19, a result that held consistent across different demographic groups, including both genders and various racial backgrounds. This high level of protection offers a substantial benefit in mitigating the impact of the disease.
"The Moderna vaccine has proven to be a safe and effective option for preventing COVID-19," stated a representative from the EMA. "Our rigorous evaluation process has ensured that the benefits of this vaccine far outweigh any potential risks, providing a crucial tool in our fight against the pandemic."
Notably, the vaccine also exhibited strong efficacy, nearly 91%, in individuals considered to be at higher risk from the virus. This includes those with pre-existing conditions such as lung and heart diseases, as well as individuals with obesity or diabetes. This finding is particularly important, as these populations are often more susceptible to severe outcomes from COVID-19 infection.
Like the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine already in use within the EU, the Moderna vaccine requires two doses, administered 28 days apart. Common side effects reported during clinical trials included pain and swelling at the injection site, muscle aches, fever, or nausea. However, these side effects were generally mild and resolved within a few days.
With the addition of the Moderna vaccine, the European Union aims to accelerate its vaccination efforts, which have faced criticism for their relatively slow pace compared to countries like the United States and Israel. As of recent reports, vaccination numbers vary across EU member states, with France reporting approximately 5,000 vaccinations, Spain nearly 140,000, Italy around 200,000, and Germany over 300,000. In comparison, the United Kingdom has vaccinated almost 1 million people.
