Clarifications required before NMRA approval granted for Sinopharm

Monday, 5 April 2021 00:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

A few more clarifications are required before Sinopharm can be approved for use in Sri Lanka for locals by the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA).

According to State Minister of Production, Supply and Regulation of Pharmaceuticals Channa Jayasumana, the Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine can be used in the country’s immunisation efforts only after these clarifications are made.

Sri Lanka received a consignment of 600,000 doses of Sinopharm as a donation from the Government of China last Wednesday. However, the vaccines are currently being used to only vaccinate Chinese nationals residing in Sri Lanka as the NMRA is yet to approve the vaccine for use for Sri Lankans.

Meanwhile, it has been reported that seven NMRA board members have been removed due to the Sinopharm approval delay. This includes Dr. Palitha Abeykoon and Dr. Lakkumar Fernando.

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