CEPI statement on Merck COVID-19 vaccine candidate

CEPI supports the decision by Merck to discontinue the development of the V591 vaccine candidate. This is a disappointing outcome, but it demonstrates the importance of robust and thorough clinical trials in delivering safe and effective vaccines.

Historically most vaccines in development do not progress through to licensure, which is why CEPI has invested in a broad portfolio of 11 COVID-19 vaccine candidates to maximize our chances of success. Through this portfolio approach we aim to develop at least three safe and effective vaccines which can be distributed and deployed to the world through COVAX.

We commend the hard work and commitment of all those involved in the clinical development of V591, which has benefitted from the expertise and dedication of colleagues at Merck, Institut Pasteur, and CEPI's longstanding partners at Themis Bioscience.

Additional links:

See Merck's statement 

See Institut Pasteur's statement