According to Sputnik news - Progress in developing a vaccine for the novel coronavirus indicates that one could be developed this year although widespread distribution will require additional time, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Anthony Fauci told an on-line forum.

"We’re in a pretty good place when it comes to vaccines," Fauci said on Tuesday. "If things work out as we hope they do, I think by the end of this year and the beginning of calendar year 2021, we will have enough information to know whether the [vaccine] candidates that were dealing with are safe and effective."

Without disclosing details, Fauci also said that one of the most promising vaccine candidates thus far - one already proven both safe and effective in triggering immunity, will be announced later this week.