Cuba’s Abdala Vaccine Trials Show Promise

Phase III clinical trials of Cuba’s Abdala vaccine came to a close on May 1. Tests show very positive results for safety and efficacy, said senior researcher, Dr. Sonia Resik, head of Virology at the Pedro Kourí Tropical Medicine Institute (IPK).

Dr. Resik told television audiences that the Abdala vaccine (CIGB-66), developed by the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB) had been administered in the eastern provinces to different age groups. Efficacy levels are still under study and the results should be known by June.

The Abdala Phase III trials began March 22 in medical centers throughout Santiago de Cuba, Guantanamo and Granma. Dr Resik said an interventional study of the ABDALA vaccine is also taking place in seven of Havana’s municipalities with the SOBERANA 02 vaccine.

Herd immunity can only be achieved when 80 to 90% of the population has been vaccinated, a factor which will lower the transmission of the disease. The continuation of the wearing of masks, hand hygiene and social distancing is advised.

Cuba has developed five candidate vaccines against COVID-19. The nation intends to vaccinate its total population by the end of this year.