COVID-19: WHO continues to assess Sputnik V vaccine

It said it has restarted the assessment process for the Russian vaccine and that it is awaiting the "completion of rolling submission."

The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), which promotes Sputnik V abroad, said a group of WHO inspectors is due to visit Russia shortly "to round up all necessary inspections and paperwork on Sputnik V."

Separately, Kirill Dmitriev, the RDIF head, told CNN he expected the WHO to approve Sputnik V in coming months, RIA news agency reported.

Read also: India allows export of Hetero Biopharma produced Sputnik Light

The WHO said in July its review of how Russia produces the Sputnik V vaccine had found some issues with the filling of vials at one plant. The manufacturer said it had since addressed all of the WHO's concerns. 

RDIF has funded COVID-19 testing systems, drugs and vaccines. RDIF supports the development of the Sputnik V vaccine by the Gamaleya Center and is investing in mass production of the vaccine.