The ImmunityBio COVID-19 vaccine, codenamed hAd5, is a non replicating viral vector[1]COVID-19 vaccine developed by the United States-based ImmunityBio.[2][1]
The BioVac Institute, a state-backed South African vaccine company, plans to use a deal it won to manufacture coronavirus vaccines. The contract with American based ImmunityBio Inc is currently conducting phase 1 vaccine trials in South Africa[3]
ImmunityBio and BioVac plan to distribute the vaccines throughout South Africa and Africa.[4][5]
History[]
In April 2020, a product developed by ImmunityBio was rumoured to be a potential SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus vaccine.[6]
On 1 June 2020, the product was selected for inclusion on the Operation Warp Speed subsidy list, in order to fund monkey trials.[7] The company "hope to receive approval from the Food and Drug Administration to begin an initial safety trial in humans in June 2020."[7]
Clinical trials[]
ImmunityBio Inc is currently conducting phase 1 vaccine trials in The United States and South Africa.[3][8][9]