COVID-19 vaccine candidate shows promising results in older patients

A coronavirus vaccine candidate has shown signs of promise in older adults during an early stage clinical trial. 

Using participants aged 56 and older, Moderna’s experimental vaccine produced neutralizing antibodies which are believed to build immunity against the virus, the biotech company announced Wednesday.

Older adults, particularly those 60 and older, are at highest risk for serious illness or death if infected with COVID-19. 

While the vaccine produced side effects in some participants, including fatigue, fever and chills, it was well-tolerated across all age groups, and symptoms were resolved within two days.

Results for the phase three trial — which will determine whether the vaccine is safe and effective in 30,000 healthy people — are expected in the fall. The vaccine will have to protect at least 50 percent of the people to be deemed effective.

The U.S. has invested billions of dollars in several vaccine candidates, including Moderna’s, to fight the coronavirus.

Data released in July found that Moderna’s vaccine produced an immune response in healthy young adults aged 18 to 55.