AstraZeneca has decided to withdraw its COVID-19 vaccine globally due to the availability of updated vaccines that are more effective against new variants of the virus. This decision follows AstraZeneca’s withdrawal of marketing authorization for the drug in the EU back in March. The European Medicines Agency has confirmed that the AstraZeneca vaccine is no longer approved for use.
The company issued a statement saying that the increased availability of other vaccines that are better suited to combat new variants has led to a decrease in demand for their vaccine, which is no longer being manufactured or supplied. AstraZeneca highlighted the significant impact their vaccine has had, with more than 6.5 million lives estimated to have been saved in the first year of use, along with the delivery of over three billion doses.
While AstraZeneca recognizes the key role they played in the fight against the pandemic, they are now focused on working with regulators and partners to establish a clear path forward. The company aims to close this chapter and continue to contribute to the global efforts to end the pandemic. This decision reflects the evolving landscape of COVID-19 vaccines and the importance of adapting to new variants of the virus for a more effective response.