Convidecia

Convidecia

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Convidecia vaccine vial

Convidecia, also known as the CanSino COVID-19 vaccine, is a COVID-19 vaccine developed by CanSino Biologics, a Chinese biopharmaceutical company. It is a viral vector vaccine that uses a modified adenovirus to deliver the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19.

Development

The development of Convidecia began in early 2020, shortly after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. CanSino Biologics collaborated with the Beijing Institute of Biotechnology to create a vaccine using a non-replicating adenovirus type 5 vector. This approach is similar to other viral vector vaccines, such as the Oxford–AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

Mechanism of Action

Convidecia works by introducing a harmless adenovirus vector that carries the gene for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Once inside the body, the adenovirus enters cells and uses the host's cellular machinery to produce the spike protein. This triggers an immune response, prompting the body to produce antibodies and activate T-cells that can recognize and fight the actual virus if the person is exposed in the future.

Clinical Trials

Convidecia underwent several phases of clinical trials to assess its safety and efficacy. The Phase I and II trials were conducted in China, demonstrating a strong immune response and acceptable safety profile. The Phase III trials were conducted in multiple countries, including Pakistan, Mexico, and Russia, involving tens of thousands of participants.

Efficacy

The efficacy of Convidecia has been reported to be around 65% in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infection and higher in preventing severe disease and hospitalization. These results are comparable to other COVID-19 vaccines available globally.

Approval and Distribution

Convidecia has been granted emergency use authorization in several countries, including China, Mexico, and Pakistan. It is part of the global effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and has been distributed to various countries as part of bilateral agreements and international initiatives.

Advantages

One of the main advantages of Convidecia is that it requires only a single dose, unlike some other COVID-19 vaccines that require two doses. This makes it easier to distribute and administer, especially in regions with limited healthcare infrastructure.

Related Pages

• COVID-19 pandemic
• COVID-19 vaccine
• CanSino Biologics
• Adenovirus
• SARS-CoV-2