Pfizer says an early peek at its vaccine data suggests the shots may be 90 per cent effective at preventing Covid-19.

New York: Pfizer says an early peek at its vaccine data suggests the shots may be 90 per cent effective at preventing Covid-19.

We're in a position potentially to be able to offer some hope, Dr. Bill Gruber, Pfizer's senior vice president of clinical development said. We're very encouraged.

Covid-19 vaccine

Authorities have stressed that its unlikely any vaccine will arrive much before the end of the year, and limited initial supplies will be rationed.

The shots made by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech are among 10 possible vaccine candidates in late-stage testing around the world.

Covid-19 vaccineAnother US company, Moderna Inc, also has said it hopes to be able to file an application with the Food and Drug Administration later this month.

Volunteers in the final-stage studies, and the researchers, don't know who received the real vaccine or a dummy shot. But a week after their second required dose, Pfizer's study began counting the number who developed Covid-19 symptoms and were confirmed to have the coronavirus.