Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan Tours Novavax To See Coronavirus Vaccine Progress, Lays Out Distribution Plan
GAITHERSBURG, Md. (WJZ) -- Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan took a tour of Novavax Thursday morning to learn more about the company's progress on a coronavirus vaccine.
"Since the very beginning, I have said that our state would lead the way to develop treatments and perhaps even a vaccine for COVID-19," Hogan tweeted. "With support from Operation Warp Speed, Novavax is working around clock to deliver a COVID-19 vaccine as early as late this year. Its vaccine candidate, which is currently in its second phase of clinical trials, is one of the most promising in the country."
Once a vaccine is approved, Hogan said the state health department will get some of the initial doses.
Advanced planning is underway at the state health department for ordering, distributing and administering the vaccine as soon as it becomes available. He said vaccine priority will go to those at the highest risk of developing complications from COVID-19, including staff and residents of nursing homes, healthcare and essential workers, public safety officers and teachers.
Novavax is one of several companies in Maryland working on a coronavirus vaccine.
Hogan said he is optimistic about the work that's being done.
"The coronavirus vaccine candidate that's been developed by Novavax is one of the most promising in the country, if not the world," the governor said.
Novavax's CEO said the company has more than doubled its workforce since January. The third phase of its clinical trials will begin soon.
Watch the press conference below:
For the latest information on coronavirus go to the Maryland Health Department's website or call 211. You can find all of WJZ's coverage on coronavirus in Maryland here.
