Novavax and Serum Institute of India (SII), announced that the National Agency of Drug and Food Control of the Republic of Indonesia, has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for Novavax recombinant nanoparticle protein-based Covid-19 vaccine with Matrix-M adjuvant. It will be manufactured by SII in India and marketed by SII in Indonesia under the brand name Covovax

"The first authorization of Novavax' Covid-19 vaccine exemplifies our commitment to equitable global access and will fill a vital need for Indonesia, which despite being the fourth most populous nation on earth, continues to work to procure sufficient vaccine for its population," said Stanley C. Erck, President and Chief Executive Officer, Novavax. "This also marks the first regulatory authorization worldwide of a protein-based Covid-19 vaccine based on Phase 3 clinical data demonstrating efficacy and a favourable safety profile. This is a landmark moment for Novavax and our partner, Serum Institute of India, and it is the first of many authorizations that Novavax expects in the coming weeks and months for our vaccine globally."

Because the vaccine is stored at 2° to 8° Celsius, the use of existing vaccine supply channels with more traditional cold chain capabilities is possible, potentially increasing access in hard-to-reach areas and vaccination rates across the nation. Initial shipments into Indonesia are expected to begin imminently.

"Access to supply of a safe and highly effective vaccine, coupled with the ease of its distribution, should be a critical enabler to help Indonesia control the current coronavirus outbreak," said Adar Poonawalla, Chief Executive Officer, Serum Institute of India. "We continue to work with urgency to ensure the first protein-based COVID-19 vaccine option in Indonesia is available for all awaiting its arrival."

Novavax and SII have already filed for authorization of Novavax' vaccine in India and the Philippines, as well as for Emergency Use Listing (EUL) with the World Health Organization (WHO).