UK's COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized for 2021 Vaccinations

Cambridge based AstraZeneca announced its COVID-19 vaccine has been approved for emergency supply in the United Kingdom (UK), with the first doses being released today so that vaccinations may begin early in 2021.

The COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca, formerly known as AZD1222, is for the active immunization of individuals 18 years or older. The authorization recommends two doses administered with an interval of between four and 12 weeks.

Matt Hancock, UK Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said in a press release, “This is a moment to celebrate British innovation - not only are we responsible for discovering the first treatment to reduce mortality for COVID-19. This vaccine will be made available to some of the poorest regions of the world at a low cost, helping protect countless people from this awful disease."

"It is a tribute to the incredible UK scientists at Oxford University and AstraZeneca whose breakthrough will help to save lives around the world."