The University of Otago, Victoria University and the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research will help lead efforts to secure a Covid-19 vaccine for New Zealand as part of newly established Vaccine Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand. In May, a $37 million Covid-19 vaccine strategy was announced to ensure New Zealand has access to a safe and effective vaccine at the earliest opportunity. Vaccine Alliance programme director professor Graham Le Gros said this morning the alliance would rapidly progress New Zealand’s capability and capacity to develop a vaccine, working with a range of local and international collaborators. ''The aim is to secure access to a safe, effective, scalable Covid-19 vaccine.'' University of Otago associate professor James Ussher, who is the alliance's science director, said the alliance was formed following in-depth discussions with Government as to the best approach to securing a vaccine.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 26, 2020 21:56 UTC