Norway could see first Covid-19 vaccinations on Christmas Eve
Approval of a coronavirus vaccine for use in the EU and Norway could be completed a week ahead of schedule, according to a report. That could mean the first non-trial vaccinations could be given in Norway on Christmas Eve.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) which must approve Covid-19 vaccines before they are used in the EU, has previously said it would complete assessment for approval of the BioNTech/Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine by December 29th.
But Norway could now receive the first vaccines soon after December 21st after the EMA brought forward an advisory consultation to that date, NRK reports.
According to the broadcaster’s information, Germany has pushed for an expedited decision, with media in the country reporting a possible approval by December 23rd.
Norway’s public health authority NIPH has previously said the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine was expected to become available in Norway in January.
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If the reported timescale becomes reality, health services in Norway could be ready to begin vaccinations on Christmas Eve, NRK reports, with delivery of doses already produced in Europe the primary time factor after approval.
That rests on the EMA advising the EU that the Pfizer vaccine is safe and effective for public use, the broadcaster notes.
The Directorate of Health has already begun supplying vaccination equipment yo local municipalities so that they are prepared for the arrival of the first vaccines.
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The European Medicines Agency (EMA) which must approve Covid-19 vaccines before they are used in the EU, has previously said it would complete assessment for approval of the BioNTech/Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine by December 29th.
But Norway could now receive the first vaccines soon after December 21st after the EMA brought forward an advisory consultation to that date, NRK reports.
According to the broadcaster’s information, Germany has pushed for an expedited decision, with media in the country reporting a possible approval by December 23rd.
Norway’s public health authority NIPH has previously said the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine was expected to become available in Norway in January.
READ ALSO:
- Up to 40 percent of Norwegians undecided over Covid-19 vaccine
- Why Norway will not vaccinate against Covid-19 by force
- Norway’s health authority 'ready' for arrival of Covid-19 vaccine
- How will Norway decide who gets a coronavirus vaccine first?
If the reported timescale becomes reality, health services in Norway could be ready to begin vaccinations on Christmas Eve, NRK reports, with delivery of doses already produced in Europe the primary time factor after approval.
That rests on the EMA advising the EU that the Pfizer vaccine is safe and effective for public use, the broadcaster notes.
The Directorate of Health has already begun supplying vaccination equipment yo local municipalities so that they are prepared for the arrival of the first vaccines.
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