China has made a significant stride in the fight against Covid-19 with the approval of the world’s first inhalable vaccine for emergency use as a booster. Developed by Tianjin-based manufacturer CanSino Biologic, the vaccine has garnered attention not only for its innovation but also for its potential to simplify storage and administration.
According to AFP reports, the announcement of the vaccine’s approval by the National Medical Products Administration has led to a surge in CanSino Biologic’s share price by seven percent on Monday. The company stated in a disclosure to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange that the needle-free vaccine will be administered through a nebuliser, offering a more convenient alternative to traditional intramuscular jabs.
While the approval has sparked optimism among investors, the company has not provided specifics regarding the availability timeline for public use. Additionally, there is currently no publicly available verified or peer-reviewed data on the vaccine’s efficacy.
Nevertheless, the development marks a significant milestone in global efforts to combat the pandemic. Other countries, including Cuba, Canada, and the United States, are also exploring inhalable Covid-19 vaccines, underscoring the importance of innovative solutions in addressing public health challenges.
Despite this progress, China’s strict zero-Covid policy remains in place, causing disruptions to travel and businesses. Authorities are under pressure to contain local virus flare-ups, particularly in anticipation of a crucial political meeting next month. Over the weekend, Shenzhen imposed a lockdown in most parts of the city, while Chengdu initiated mass testing for its 21 million residents.
China’s vaccination campaign has been extensive, with over 3.4 billion Covid shots administered to date, as announced by the National Health Commission. However, details regarding the percentage of the population vaccinated were not provided. Amidst these efforts, the approval of the inhalable vaccine signals a promising development in the ongoing battle against the pandemic.
