Why China still doesn’t have an mRNA shot
AS THE fast-evolving coronavirus tests scientists’ capacity to develop more effective vaccines, drugmakers in China are scrambling to catch up with the most advanced technology for producing more powerful shots to better protect the world’s largest population.
Since the pandemic started, China has approved 7 home-grown Covid-19 vaccines using 4 proven technologies to back the country’s vaccination campaign, the world’s largest. But shots based on the new mRNA technology that have been widely used elsewhere are still not available in China. MRNA vaccines, led by products developed by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, have outperformed most other shots in efficacy rates against Covid-19.
“Although the Ministry of Science and Technology in 2020 announced 5 technology routes (for Covid vaccine development), there hasn’t been any mRNA shot approved,” said Shen Haifa, chief scientist of Stemirna Therapeutics, one of the Chinese companies engaged in mRNA vaccine development.
BT is now on Telegram!
For daily updates on weekdays and specially selected content for the weekend. Subscribe to t.me/BizTimes
International
Thai power demand hits record as extreme heat prompts warnings
Philippines denies deal with China over disputed South China Sea shoal
‘Everyone sits out’: Yangon parks offer heatwave relief
When US diplomats visit China, meal choices are about more than taste buds
China’s first-quarter industrial profits rise at slower pace
Laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, rich cuisine and low cost of living lure more expat retirees to Malaysia