Picture used for illustrative purpose only.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Monday announced emergency approval for use of the COVID-19 vaccine.

"This emergency approval of the vaccine was given upon meeting a set criteria for this specific purpose, and working closely with the vaccine's developers," said Abdul Rahman Al Owais, Minister of Health and Community Protection

"The vaccine has been tested on 1,000 volunteers suffering from chronic diseases, and no complications occurred. The side effects which have been reported so far are mild and expected, like any other vaccine, and no severe side effects have been encountered.

The evaluation was performed under a license for emergency and limited use, considering target groups, product characteristics, clinical studies data, and all relevant available scientific evidence.

Owais said "the health authorities have followed all procedures to control the quality, safety and efficacy of the vaccine in coordination with the vaccine’s creators. The vaccine will be available to our first line of defense heroes who are at the highest risk of contracting the virus, in order to protect them from any dangers and provide safety precautions."

The vaccine emergency approval for use is fully aligned with regulations and laws, which permit accelerated authorisation process.

The results of the first and second test phases showed that the vaccine was safe, effective and triggered the right response.

The clinical trials for the third phase are continuing under the strict supervision of medical teams, while following all measures to control the quality, safety and efficacy of the vaccine.

"Through these steps, we aim to contribute to saving the lives of millions of people and provide health care for the infected," he said

The results of clinical trials in our country are moving on the right path, with all tests being successful so far.

In less than six weeks since the study began, 31,000 volunteers representing 125 nationalities have participated in the clinical trials.