Mubasher: Bahrain’s National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) approved the registration of Sinopharm’s COVID-19 vaccine after the submission of all related documentation by G42 Healthcare, the company’s exclusive distributor in the Middle East and North Africa, Bahrain News Agency (BNA) reported on Sunday.  

The decision to approve and use the vaccine is based on the clinical trials data conducted across several countries, which was thoroughly reviewed and evaluated by the authority.

“Results from Phase III clinical trials showed an 86% efficacy rate, a 99% seroconversion rate of neutralising antibody and 100% effectiveness in preventing moderate and severe cases of COVID-19, following testing on 42,299 volunteers,” the statement said.

Bahrain has participated in Phase III clinical trials of the vaccine as part of the 4 Humanity campaign, in which more than 7,700 volunteers signed up.

Noteworthy to highlight, the NHRA had previously authorised the emergency use of Sinopharm’s vaccine based on preliminary results, which was provided to frontline professionals in contact with COVID-19 patients.