Prioritise Odisha for COVID-19 vaccination: CM to SII CEO

Sambad English Bureau Published On : Jul 22, 2020 at 1:41 PM Updated On : Jul 22, 2020 at 2:35 PM

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today spoke to Adar Poonawalla, CEO, Serum Institute of India (SII) over a video call during which he sought the latter’s cooperation in prioritising Odisha for COVID-19 vaccination after necessary clearances.

The CM said that the State Government will be in touch with SII for this purpose. Patnaik expressed happiness that SII has partnered with Oxford University to develop COVID-19 vaccine.

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He also applauded the philanthropic activities carried out by Poonawalla and the foresight in tying up with various research institutions across the globe to develop vaccine for COVID.

Poonawalla appreciated the CM for getting in touch with SII for knowing about the progress of the vaccine.

He said that Oxford University COVID-19 vaccine has shown promising results in the first phase trial. In India, the next phase trial will start in mid-August and the vaccine will be ready by October-November this year, he added.

He further said SII and Odisha government can be in touch with each other and carry forward the collaboration once the vaccines are cleared and ready.

Also read- COVID-19 Vaccine In India Likely To Cost Less Than Rs 1000.