3 COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials to start in PH this Feb/Mar

Three COVID-19 vaccines, Clover, Janssen, and Sinovac, are expected to begin clinical trials in the Philippines this February or March.

Janssen's clinical trials may begin as early as this week, with Clover and Sinovac to follow either this month or in March.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato de la Peña confirmed that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved these trials.

The clinical trials are part of Phase 3 testing and are expected to last for approximately one month.

DOST is assisting vaccine makers in identifying suitable trial sites, with specific locations for Janssen including Makati City, Laguna, Iloilo City, and Bacolod City.

Clover will conduct trials in Quezon City, Makati, Manila, Taguig, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Calamba, Laguna, and Dasmariñas, while Sinovac will hold trials in Quezon City, Marikina, Pasay, and Laguna.

Vaccine companies are responsible for all costs associated with the trials, including insurance for any adverse effects experienced by volunteers.