The vaccine supply delivery for the second component of the Russian-developed Sputnik V has been delayed due to logistical problems, according to vaccine czar Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr.
The 132,000 first-component doses were delivered on July 9, which the Gamaleya Research Institute said possess 80% efficacy.
However, the vaccine’s emergency use authorization (EUA) granted by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires a second dose which is administered within 21 to 42 days after the initial dose.
Authorities are now mulling over the possibility of a COVID-19 vaccine mix-and-match, with AstraZeneca vaccine as an option for the second dose, due to its similarity to Sputnik which utilizes viral vector technology.
The Department of Health (DOH) said the vaccine experts panel (VEP) has already discussed the matter.
Health Sec. Francisco Duque III said there is no problem in terms of safety using AstraZeneca for Sputnik V recipients, noting that they have the same technology platform.
The health department is expected to issue guidelines on mixing different vaccine brands.
Meanwhile, around 22 million vaccine doses will be delivered to the country, including donations from other countries. – Report from Louisa Erispe/AG-jlo
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