British In Vitro Diagnostics Association (BIVDA) Chief Executive Doris-Ann Williams has welcomed the confirmation of the first COVID-19 vaccine to be approved by British regulators.
Doris-Ann said: “We are delighted that the MHRA have approved the Pfizer/BioNTech coronavirus vaccine for widespread use, meaning it can start its roll out. On behalf of BIVDA and the in vitro diagnostics sector, I would like to congratulate all those involved in this incredible scientific achievement.
“An effective vaccine, combined with an effective test and trace system, is our best route back to normality, and indeed both prongs of this approach are interdependent. We will continue to work closely with the MHRA, NHS and ministers to play our role in supporting the continued implementation of effective and rapid COVID-19 testing, so cases can be detected and controlled while the vaccine is being distributed.
“Once the virus is on the retreat, the government must continue to support the NHS to restart and scale up routine testing to avoid a tsunami of undiagnosed illnesses presenting themselves next year, just when pressure on the NHS from COVID-19 may begin to ease. Our members stand ready to play their part in the next stage of this important endeavour.”