Game on: Pfizer, BioNTech prepare to put COVID-19 shot distribution plan to the test after interim readout

In the first major breakthrough in the race for a COVID-19 vaccine, Pfizer and BioNTech unveiled early phase 3 data this week showing the shot's strong efficacy. Though other hurdles remain, the partners' lofty distribution plan could soon be put to the test—and nations are anxiously waiting to see whether they deliver.

As part of a potential 300 million-shot deal for the EU currently in the works, countries like Italy are expecting their first batches of Pfizer and BioNTech's vaccine as soon as January if regulatory approvals come through, Reuters reported. The initial order would come out to around 3.4 million doses, an Italian official said.