Thailand in talks with manufacturers of second-generation vaccines

A spokesman for the Thai government says talks are ongoing with manufacturers of second-generation vaccines that can handle virus mutations. According to a Bangkok Post report, Anucha Burapachaisri says such vaccines are vital in order to effectively control the pandemic, as strains such as the Delta variant take over.

In addition to holding talks with manufacturers of second-generation vaccines aimed at combatting variants, the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration wants to broker technology transfer deals for the production of a variety of vaccines, including mRNA vaccines and those using both inactivated virus and viral vector technology.

According to Anucha, the CCSA has approved the procurement of 120 million vaccine doses next year, along with over 105 million additional doses this year. Included in that are 20 million doses from Pfizer, reportedly already ordered by the Department of Disease Control. In addition, the Government Pharmaceutical Organisation is placing an order for the Moderna vaccine, through importer Zuellig Pharma. The Moderna doses will be supplied to private hospitals, with recipients having to pay.

The Bangkok Post reports that the vaccines that will continue to be provided free of charge are AstraZeneca and Sinovac, with Pfizer and the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine joining the list at some point. Vaccines from Moderna and Sinopharm will need to be purchased.

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SOURCE: Bangkok Post