After only six weeks of immunization development, biotech firm Moderna Inc. has shipped the first batch of its experimental coronavirus vaccine to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the United States.
The vaccine, called mRNA-1273, is said to be the first vaccine that will be used by American researchers in a Phase 1 clinical trial.
NIAID Director Anthony Fauci said the initial trial, which usually involves testing a vaccine on a small group of healthy adults, could begin in April.
According to media, two doses of the candidate vaccine would be tested on up to 25 individuals to determine the type and extent of immune response it provokes.
However, even if it becomes successful, the entire testing procedure and approvals will take one year, the fastest.
Aside from Moderna, other global pharmaceutical companies such as GlaxoSmithKline, Gilead, Johnson & Johnson and Sanofi are currently working on vaccine development to fight COVID-19 which has killed 2,760 as of Wednesday.
Shares in some of these giant drugmakers have reportedly soared as they take lead in coronavirus treatment and prevention.
During the recent tradings, Moderna gained 28% while Gilead stocks increased up to 5%.
