A high-ranking official at the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has cautioned European Union member states against independently approving Russia's Sputnik V vaccine for COVID-19, emphasizing the necessity of a comprehensive review by the agency to ensure its safety and efficacy. Christa Wirthumer-Hoche, head of the EMA's governing board, expressed concerns over the absence of crucial data, particularly regarding vaccinated individuals.
"We need documents that we can examine. We also currently have no data… on vaccinated people. It is unknown. This is why I would urgently advise against the granting of a national emergency authorization," Wirthumer-Hoche stated in an interview with Austrian broadcaster ORF.
The EMA's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) has initiated a review of Sputnik V, scrutinizing data provided by Russian manufacturers. The evaluation will adhere to stringent European standards, encompassing quality, safety, and efficacy. Wirthumer-Hoche indicated that Sputnik V could potentially be authorized in the EU pending successful review outcomes.
Several EU member states, including Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, have either approved or are considering approving Sputnik V. EU officials have suggested that the European Commission might engage in negotiations with the vaccine's manufacturer if at least four member countries express interest.
In related news, the CHMP is set to convene an extraordinary meeting on March 11 to assess the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine for potential use within the EU. Wirthumer-Hoche anticipates a favorable assessment, paving the way for authorization by the European Commission.
