WHO eyes end-Oct start for PH COVID-19 vaccine trials

The World Health Organization (WHO) plans to start large-scale clinical trials for potential COVID-19 vaccines in the Philippines by the end of October, according to DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire.

Vergeire stated that WHO is currently reviewing a list of 34 vaccine candidates and will identify specific vaccines and trial sites by late September.

Health authorities plan to coordinate with local government units to inform them about the advantages and risks of participating in the trials, ensuring informed consent from volunteers.