Canada has approved a plant-based COVID-19 vaccine, making it the first country in the world to do so.
Health Canada has been approved the two-dose vaccine for adults 18 to 64 years of age, making this the sixth vaccine approved in Canada.
Biopharmaceutical company Medicago uses plant-derived, virus-like particles, which mimic the coronavirus behind COVID-19. The virus does not contain genetic material. Another ingredient, an immune-boosting chemical called an adjuvant that British partner GlaxoSmithKline produces, is also added to the shots.
“We’re at a stage where we’re ramping up capacity to meet the supply agreement,” said Marc-André D’Aoust, executive vice president of innovation, development and medical affairs at Medicago said, per Reuters.
A press release states that the “Covifenz” vaccine has a 71% overall efficacy rate against all virus variants, with a higher efficacy rate of 75% against COVID-19 infections of any stringency from the delta variant.
Health Canada says its efficacy and safety in those younger than 18 and older than 64 has “not yet been established.”
“While additional confirmatory data are needed, preliminary and exploratory data shows that Covifenz produces neutralizing antibodies against the Omicron variant,” Health Canada said in a statement.
The skepticism surrounding the virus is still fairly high. The plant-based vaccine could help to convince those currently apprehensive about receiving the jab to finally take the leap.
In December, it was reported that NBA player, Kyrie Irving, was waiting on a plant-based alternative. The Brooklyn Nets star is vegan and currently unvaccinated. Irving has not publicly discussed whether he would be open to the vaccine.
