Australians may need to wait longer than expected for a COVID-10 vaccine after late-stage trials of a promising candidate were put on hold.
Pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca suspended the tests on their vaccine being developed by Oxford University after a participant in the United Kingdom experienced an unexplained illness.
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The federal government has ordered 33 million doses of the vaccine to be distributed next year if the trials prove successful, with it hoping to gain early access to 3.8 million doses for distribution in January.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Nick Coatsworth says while details of the case aren't yet clear, the temporary suspension of medical trials isn't uncommon.
Metropolitan Melbourne residents are subject to Stage 4 restrictions and must comply with a curfew between the hours of 8pm and 5am. During the curfew, people in Melbourne can only leave their house for work, and essential health, care or safety reasons.
Between 5am and 8pm, people in Melbourne can leave the home for exercise, to shop for necessary goods and services, for work, for health care, or to care for a sick or elderly relative.
All Victorians must wear a face covering when they leave home, no matter where they live.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits.
If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, stay home and arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
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