Public Readied for Pfizer Vaccine as Israeli Vaccine Heads to Next Stage

Jerusalem, 15 December, 2020 (TPS) -- The vaccine process was demonstrated step-by-step Tuesday morning as Israel readies its citizens for the vaccinations now scheduled to begin on December 23. At the same time, the Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR) announces its vaccine is entering stage two of clinical trials.

At the Sheba Medical Center at Tel HaShomer, also known as Tel HaShomer Hospital, in Ramat Gan, nurses demonstrated the vaccination process – from interviewing patients, to receiving the vaccine in the upper arm, to receiving an internationally recognized certificate once completed.

Director of the Sheba Medical Center, Dr. Yitshak Kreiss, implored Israelis to get vaccinated and plans to set a personal example. “I’ll be the first. We’re ready. The health funds are ready to do this, the hospitals are ready to do this, Israel is ready to do this. I think it’s the correct thing to do, and I think it’s safe.”

First doses of the Pfizer vaccine are expected to be given on Wednesday, December 23. 

While Pfizer vaccinations begin, the IIBR prepares for phase two of clinical trials.

The second phase of the clinical trials is expected to begin in the coming days with the participation of approximately 1,000 volunteers. The trial will take place at Sheba and Hadassah Medical Centers and will gradually expand to additional medical centers throughout the country.

Commenting on the progress, Defense Minister Benny Gantz said, “The scientists of the IIBR are Israel’s ‘elite unit,’ and have taken on an extremely important task – saving human lives. I see great importance in the development of an Israeli vaccine that will continue to serve Israeli society for years to come.”