Australia could have a COVID-19 vaccine by March. Here’s everything you need to know in 158 words.

THE TRIAL

Biotech company Pfizer revealed trial results on Monday suggesting its COVID-19 vaccine was more than 90% effective in preventing the virus. The trial involved 43,000 participants. Half were given the vaccine, and half were given a placebo.

In total, 94 participants were infected with COVID-19 during the trial, leading scientists to conclude that the vaccine was extremely effective.

Pfizer said no serious safety concerns had been identified.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

Pfizer will get an independent body of experts to check the results before submitting it for approval around the world. The U.S. has already said it plans to begin vaccinating Americans in December.

SO COVID-19 IS ALMOST OVER?

Not quite. It’ll require a major distribution effort to get the vaccine, which requires refrigeration and is carefully produced, around the world.

AUSTRALIA'S VACCINE TIMELINE*

January: vaccine gets regulatory approval

March: vulnerable Australians start getting vaccinated

December: almost all Australians are vaccinated

*if everything goes well