FDA Chief: Coronavirus Vaccine Release Possible by Election Day

The head of the Food and Drug Administration this week told CBS News that a vaccine for the coronavirus could be made available by Election Day in November, even if it has not completed the final trial phase.

"I can tell you our decision at FDA will not be made on any other criteria than the science and data associated with these clinical trials," Dr. Stephen Hahn said on Monday, noting that the FDA will rely on all available data when make a decision on whether to approve a vaccine for emergency authorization.

"There's been pressure throughout this pandemic and I think anybody who doesn't acknowledge that would be kidding themselves. There's been pressure to make sure that we get medical products as quickly as possible to the American people," he added.

"Of course, everyone wants us to do this as quickly as possible. But I think everybody also wants us to do this safely and data-driven way as possible and that's what FDA has done."

Hahn said that although some vaccine makers have said they could have a vaccine available by the end of the year, the FDA "will not make that decision on the basis of politics."

When asked if he would resign if pressured to release a vaccine early, Hahn said, "I think all options are on the table, with respect. I hope we won't be in that position.”

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