Pfizer Vaccine Data Offers Real Pandemic Optimism
We now have the first effective vaccine, and the trial results look robust. It’s a huge boost for the Covid-19 fight.
Pfizer’s vaccine news marks a major step forward.
Photographer: Akos Stiller/BloombergLast week I wrote that based on clinical trial math, the earliest looks at coronavirus vaccine data were less likely to succeed. I've never been happier to be wrong. Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE announced Monday that their vaccine candidate prevented over 90% of Covid-19 cases in an early look at results from their 44,000-person clinical trial.
It's fantastic news and a historic scientific accomplishment. Not only do we have the first effective vaccine, but the data also looks robust. Instead of evaluating the shot at the first possible moment, Pfizer waited for more data, which gives weight to the impressive results.