Biotech company Moderna said it was seeking approval from regulators around the globe to pack 50 per cent more coronavirus vaccine into each of its vials, in order to boost current supply levels.
The company gave a statement after The New York Times first reported that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had already given permission to it to increase the amount by 40 per cent.
A spokesperson said that the company was having discussions with the FDA and authorities in other countries, and the increased level of doses wouldn't require different vials to those currently in use.
“In order to better maximise resources as well as maximise opportunities to deliver more doses into each market faster, Moderna has proposed filling vials with up to 15 doses of vaccine versus the previous 10 doses," the spokesperson said in a statement to AFP. "Any resulting change would be subject to final approval from the various regulatory authorities. Implementation of any such changes would be expected to be completed in approximately a two- to three-month period," they said.