The COVID-19 vaccine developed by British drugmaker AstraZeneca Plc and Oxford University will likely be authorised for emergency use in the United States in April.

British regulators approved AstraZeneca's vaccine Wednesday, the first country in the world to do so, based in part on unpublished data.

Operation Warp Speed chief advisor Dr Moncef Slaoui Wednesday said recruitment for the British drugmaker's late-stage US trial is almost complete with over 29,000 participants enrolled.

Several scientists have raised doubts about the robustness of results from its British and Brazilian trials, showing the shot was 90 per cent effective in a sub-group of trial participants. That group, by error initially, received a half dose followed by a full dose. But the efficacy was 62% if the full dose was given twice, as it was for most participants.

Slaoui said it would ultimately be up to the US Food and Drug Administration as to how to evaluate the vaccine for US authorisation.

The chief advisor was also cautious about whether the United States should implement similar guidance as the UK regulators to space out the second dose of Pfizer Inc's by as much as 12 weeks, longer than what was studied in clinical trials.

Officials said that 14 million doses of Pfizer's and Moderna's have been distributed to states, short of their goal to send enough doses to vaccinate 20 million Americans this month. Only about 2 million Americans have been vaccinated thus far and officials said they were still studying why immunisations were slower than they anticipated.

The COVID-19 vaccine developed by British drugmaker AstraZeneca Plc and Oxford University will likely be authorised for emergency use in the United States in April.

The COVID-19 vaccine developed by British drugmaker AstraZeneca Plc and Oxford University will likely be authorised for emergency use in the United States in April. British regulators approved AstraZeneca's vaccine Wednesday, the first country in the world to do so, based in part on unpublished data. Operation Warp Speed chief advisor Dr Moncef Slaoui Wednesday said recruitment for the British drugmaker's late-stage US trial is almost complete with over 29,000 participants enrolled. Several scientists have raised doubts about the robustness of results from its British and Brazilian trials, showing the shot was 90 per cent effective in a sub-group of trial participants. That group, by error initially, received a half dose followed by a full dose. But the efficacy was 62% if the full dose was given twice, as it was for most participants. Slaoui said it would ultimately be up to the US Food and Drug Administration as to how to evaluate the vaccine for US authorisation. The chief advisor was also cautious about whether the United States should implement similar guidance as the UK regulators to space out the second dose of Pfizer Inc's by as much as 12 weeks, longer than what was studied in clinical trials. Officials said that 14 million doses of Pfizer's and Moderna's have been distributed to states, short of their goal to send enough doses to vaccinate 20 million Americans this month. Only about 2 million Americans have been vaccinated thus far and officials said they were still studying why immunisations were slower than they anticipated.

US may authorise AstraZeneca Covid vaccine for emergency use in April

India's process of vaccine roll out might take a little longer. An expert panel backed by India's drug regulator will seek more data from the leading vaccine candidates Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Oxford University's COVID-19 vaccine before granting emergency use approval.

WION Dispatch: Indian experts take cautions approach,

British regulators have approved the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine as the country looks to accelerate its inoculation campaign. But Indian regulators have sought more data from the makers of the jab. WION's Palki Sharma has the full report.

Gravitas: Britain approves Astrazeneca-Oxford vaccine

India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation's Subject Expert Committee(SEC) is set to hold a meeting today to decide on approving the Covishield vaccine developed by Serum Institute of India (SII) and AstraZeneca-Oxford University.

Watch:

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The SEC will decide on whether to allow Covishield vaccine emergency use authorisation to combat COVID-19.

The SII had earlier submitted additional data to the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI).

Pfizer-BioNTech, Bharat Biotech and Serum Institute of India had earlier applied to the DCGI for the emergency use vaccine. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
SII chief Adar Poonawalla had earlier claimed that his company has already produced 40 million doses of the Oxford vaccine and was aiming to ramp up production to at least 100 million doses a month by March.

"We have 40-50 million doses of Covishield stockpiled. Once we get regulatory approvals in a few days, it'll be down to the government to decide how much they can take and how fast," Poonawalla said.&nbsp;

"All data on Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID19 vaccine submitted in India and UK. There are no concerns, regulators are closely reviewing documents and data," the SII chief executive added.

Poonawala said that although there could be a shortage of vaccine in the first half of the year, there could be an easing off later in 2021 around August September as other vaccine makers will be able to supply it.

India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation's Subject Expert Committee(SEC) is set to hold a meeting today to decide on approving the Covishield vaccine developed by Serum Institute of India (SII) and AstraZeneca-Oxford University.

India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation's Subject Expert Committee(SEC) is set to hold a meeting today to decide on approving the Covishield vaccine developed by Serum Institute of India (SII) and AstraZeneca-Oxford University. Watch: The SEC will decide on whether to allow Covishield vaccine emergency use authorisation to combat COVID-19. The SII had earlier submitted additional data to the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI). Pfizer-BioNTech, Bharat Biotech and Serum Institute of India had earlier applied to the DCGI for the emergency use vaccine. SII chief Adar Poonawalla had earlier claimed that his company has already produced 40 million doses of the Oxford vaccine and was aiming to ramp up production to at least 100 million doses a month by March. "We have 40-50 million doses of Covishield stockpiled. Once we get regulatory approvals in a few days, it'll be down to the government to decide how much they can take and how fast," Poonawalla said. "All data on Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID19 vaccine submitted in India and UK. There are no concerns, regulators are closely reviewing documents and data," the SII chief executive added. Poonawala said that although there could be a shortage of vaccine in the first half of the year, there could be an easing off later in 2021 around August September as other vaccine makers will be able to supply it.

India's SEC to decide on approving Serum Institute of India's Covishield vaccine for emergency use authorisation

The United Kingdom on Wednesday approved the COVID-19 vaccine developed by the University of Oxford, and AstraZeneca for use in the country, paving way for further vaccination.

Earlier, the UK had become the first country to approve Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine, which is now being administered to people around the world.

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This approval means that Britain would upgrade its vaccination capability. The country has ordered 100 million doses of the vaccine from the manufacturer - AstraZeneca, and it's enough to vaccinate 50 million people in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-to-approve-astrazeneca-oxford-vaccine-soon-adar-poonawalla-352976" hreflang="en">India to approve AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine soon: Adar Poonawalla</a>

The vaccine was developed in the first few months of 2020, and was tested on the first volunteer in April. Since then, thousands have participated in the trials.

Since the approval of the Pfizer jab in December, over 600,000 people have received the vaccine in the country.

Experts have now turned their attention to making sure the existing vaccines work against the new variant too. Considering the same,&nbsp;AstraZeneca chief executive, Pascal Soriot, said his team of researchers are almost sure that the Oxford vaccine will be able to fight against the novel coronavirus.

he said more tests need to be performed to be sure about this. "So far, we think the vaccine should remain effective. But we can’t be sure, so we’re going to test that," Soriot said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/astrazeneca-chief-claims-vaccine-works-against-new-strain-of-coronavirus-352737" hreflang="en">AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus</a>

Hailing it as a "winning formula", Soriot thanked the team of researchers and said he hopes it will be able to contain the new variant of the virus found in several countries such as the UK, South Africa, Italy, etc.

"We think we have figured out the winning formula and how to get efficacy that, after two doses, is up there with everybody else," Soriot said, refusing to reveal any more information before it is officially published.

The United Kingdom on Wednesday approved the COVID-19 vaccine developed by the University of Oxford, and AstraZeneca for use in the country, paving way for further vaccination.

The United Kingdom on Wednesday approved the COVID-19 vaccine developed by the University of Oxford, and AstraZeneca for use in the country, paving way for further vaccination. Earlier, the UK had become the first country to approve Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine, which is now being administered to people around the world. This approval means that Britain would upgrade its vaccination capability. The country has ordered 100 million doses of the vaccine from the manufacturer - AstraZeneca, and it's enough to vaccinate 50 million people in the country. Also read: India to approve AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine soon: Adar Poonawalla The vaccine was developed in the first few months of 2020, and was tested on the first volunteer in April. Since then, thousands have participated in the trials. Since the approval of the Pfizer jab in December, over 600,000 people have received the vaccine in the country. Experts have now turned their attention to making sure the existing vaccines work against the new variant too. Considering the same, AstraZeneca chief executive, Pascal Soriot, said his team of researchers are almost sure that the Oxford vaccine will be able to fight against the novel coronavirus. he said more tests need to be performed to be sure about this. "So far, we think the vaccine should remain effective. But we can’t be sure, so we’re going to test that," Soriot said. Also read: AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus Hailing it as a "winning formula", Soriot thanked the team of researchers and said he hopes it will be able to contain the new variant of the virus found in several countries such as the UK, South Africa, Italy, etc. "We think we have figured out the winning formula and how to get efficacy that, after two doses, is up there with everybody else," Soriot said, refusing to reveal any more information before it is officially published.

British regulator approves Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine

U.K. approval would provide vindication for the AstraZeneca-Oxford shot, which has been slowed by questions about discrepancies in the trial results.

AstraZeneca Covid vaccine to be approved by UK within days

Serum Institute of India is expecting the Indian government to give approval to the&nbsp;Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine for emergency use in the next few days, the company said on Monday.

As of now, the pharmaceutical company has already produced 40 to million doses of the Oxford vaccine and is aiming to ramp up production to at least 100 million doses a month by March, provided a new facility is established,&nbsp;Serum Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla reported.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-chief-claims-vaccine-works-against-new-strain-of-coronavirus-352737">AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus</a>

He is also hoping to ramp up the production to 300 million doses of the vaccine by July 2021 to meet the rising demand, considering the new variants being identified in several parts of the world.

"We have 40-50 million doses of Covishield stockpiled. Once we get regulatory approvals in a few days, it'll be down to the government to decide how much they can take and how fast," Poonawalla said.&nbsp;

He also assured that all related data has been provided to the concerned authorities of the UK and India. "All data on Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID19 vaccine submitted in India and UK. The re are no concerns, regulators are closely reviewing documents and data," he said.

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Poonawalla has also reported&nbsp;that since India is a part of 'COVAX', at least 50 per cent of all the produce will be given to India. He also added that considering India's population, "probably end up giving the majority of those 50 million doses to India first".

Hinting towards a "good news from the UK very soon", he notified that the&nbsp;AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is aiming to get licensed by January 2021.&nbsp;

Poonawalla has also warned of an expected shortage of the COVID-19 vaccines in the first half of the new year, but added that "we will see easing off by August-September 2021 as other vaccine manufactures will also be able to supply"

Serum Institute of India is expecting the Indian government to give approval to the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine for emergency use in the next few days, the company said on Monday.

Serum Institute of India is expecting the Indian government to give approval to the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine for emergency use in the next few days, the company said on Monday. As of now, the pharmaceutical company has already produced 40 to million doses of the Oxford vaccine and is aiming to ramp up production to at least 100 million doses a month by March, provided a new facility is established, Serum Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla reported. Also read| AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus He is also hoping to ramp up the production to 300 million doses of the vaccine by July 2021 to meet the rising demand, considering the new variants being identified in several parts of the world. "We have 40-50 million doses of Covishield stockpiled. Once we get regulatory approvals in a few days, it'll be down to the government to decide how much they can take and how fast," Poonawalla said. He also assured that all related data has been provided to the concerned authorities of the UK and India. "All data on Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID19 vaccine submitted in India and UK. The re are no concerns, regulators are closely reviewing documents and data," he said. WATCH| × Poonawalla has also reported that since India is a part of 'COVAX', at least 50 per cent of all the produce will be given to India. He also added that considering India's population, "probably end up giving the majority of those 50 million doses to India first". Hinting towards a "good news from the UK very soon", he notified that the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is aiming to get licensed by January 2021. Poonawalla has also warned of an expected shortage of the COVID-19 vaccines in the first half of the new year, but added that "we will see easing off by August-September 2021 as other vaccine manufactures will also be able to supply"

India to approve AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine soon: Adar Poonawalla

While the world is battling a new strain of coronavirus, experts have now turned their attention to making sure the existing vaccines work against the new variant too.

Considering the same,&nbsp;AstraZeneca chief executive, Pascal Soriot, said his team of researchers are almost sure that the Oxford vaccine will be able to fight against the novel coronavirus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-confirms-two-cases-of-coronavirus-variant-first-seen-in-uk-352638" hreflang="en">Canada confirms two cases of coronavirus variant first seen in UK</a>

While Soriot is almost sure about this, he said more tests need to be performed to be sure about this. "So far, we think the vaccine should remain effective. But we can’t be sure, so we’re going to test that," Soriot said.

Hailing it as a "winning formula", Soriot thanked the team of researchers and said he hopes it will be able to contain the new variant of the virus found in several countries such as the UK, South Africa, Italy, etc.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-inoculate-quarter-of-its-population-against-coronavirus-in-a-month-says-netanyahu-352705" hreflang="en">Israel to inoculate quarter of its population in a month, says Netanyahu</a>

"We think we have figured out the winning formula and how to get efficacy that, after two doses, is up there with everybody else," Soriot said, refusing to reveal any more information before it is officially published.

As AstraZeneca got the approval of emergency use, the vaccine is expected to be rolled out by January first week. However, the experts are raising doubts against it.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-begins-vaccine-rollout-as-new-virus-strain-spreads-fears-352641" hreflang="en">Europe begins vaccine rollout as new virus strain spreads fears</a>

"The medicines regulator is reviewing the final data from the University of Oxford/AstraZeneca phase three clinical trials to determine whether the vaccine meets their strict standards of quality, safety and effectiveness,"&nbsp;a government spokesperson said. "We must now give the MHRA the time to carry out its important work and we must wait for its advice."

AstraZeneca's chief's statements came after the European Union countries, too, started their vaccination drive from Sunday after the US, UK, Britain, Israel and many other countries have set their targets to vaccinate majority population.

While the world is battling a new strain of coronavirus, experts have now turned their attention to making sure the existing vaccines work against the new variant too.

While the world is battling a new strain of coronavirus, experts have now turned their attention to making sure the existing vaccines work against the new variant too. Considering the same, AstraZeneca chief executive, Pascal Soriot, said his team of researchers are almost sure that the Oxford vaccine will be able to fight against the novel coronavirus. Also read| Canada confirms two cases of coronavirus variant first seen in UK While Soriot is almost sure about this, he said more tests need to be performed to be sure about this. "So far, we think the vaccine should remain effective. But we can’t be sure, so we’re going to test that," Soriot said. Hailing it as a "winning formula", Soriot thanked the team of researchers and said he hopes it will be able to contain the new variant of the virus found in several countries such as the UK, South Africa, Italy, etc. Also read| Israel to inoculate quarter of its population in a month, says Netanyahu "We think we have figured out the winning formula and how to get efficacy that, after two doses, is up there with everybody else," Soriot said, refusing to reveal any more information before it is officially published. As AstraZeneca got the approval of emergency use, the vaccine is expected to be rolled out by January first week. However, the experts are raising doubts against it. Also read| Europe begins vaccine rollout as new virus strain spreads fears "The medicines regulator is reviewing the final data from the University of Oxford/AstraZeneca phase three clinical trials to determine whether the vaccine meets their strict standards of quality, safety and effectiveness," a government spokesperson said. "We must now give the MHRA the time to carry out its important work and we must wait for its advice." AstraZeneca's chief's statements came after the European Union countries, too, started their vaccination drive from Sunday after the US, UK, Britain, Israel and many other countries have set their targets to vaccinate majority population.

AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus

Scientifically, it is highly likely that the immune response by this vaccine also can deal with the new virus variant.

Can new vaccines take on Covid mutation?

India is likely to approve Oxford/AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine for emergency use by next week after its local manufacturer submitted additional data sought by authorities, two sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Tuesday.

This could be the first country to give the regulatory green light for the British drugmaker's vaccine as the British medicine regulator continues to examine data from the trials.

India, the world's biggest vaccine-making country, wants to start inoculating its citizens next month and is also considering emergency use authorisation applications for vaccines made by Pfizer Inc and local company Bharat Biotech.

Getting vaccines to the world's second-most populous country with one of the highest infection rates will also be a big step in the battle against the pandemic.

The AstraZeneca-Oxford shot is considered vital for lower-income countries and those in hot climates because it is cheaper, easier to transport and can be stored for long periods at normal fridge temperatures.

India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) first reviewed the <a href="https://cdsco.gov.in/opencms/opencms/system/modules/CDSCO.WEB/elements/common_download.jsp?num_id_pk=MTI3NQ==">three applications</a> on Dec. 9 and sought more information from all the companies, including from Serum Institute of India (SII), which is making the AstraZeneca shots.

Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's biggest vaccine manufacturer, has now provided all the data, the two sources said. The authorities were still waiting for more details from Pfizer, a government health adviser told a news briefing on Tuesday, while one of the sources said additional information was expected from Bharat Biotech.

Both sources said Indian health officials were in direct contact with their British counterparts over the AstraZeneca shot and that there were "strong indications" an approval would come by next week.

The expected approval comes after data from AstraZeneca's late-stage trials in the UK and Brazil released earlier this month showed the vaccine had efficacy of 62 per cent&nbsp;for trial participants given two full doses, but 90&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;for a smaller sub-group given a half, then a full dose.

The Indian regulator is only considering the two full-dose regimen of the shot despite it showing a lower success rate, the sources said.

"Serum is ready," said one of the sources. "Initially, we may get around 50 million to 60 million doses."

The sources declined to be named as deliberations were ongoing and the timeline could change.

CDSCO chief V.G. Somani did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Bharat Biotech and Pfizer declined to comment, while SII did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

India has not yet signed a vaccine supply deal with any company, but SII has already stockpiled more than 50 million doses of the AstraZeneca shot and plans to make a total of 400 million doses by July.

India is likely to approve Oxford/AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine for emergency use by next week after its local manufacturer submitted additional data sought by authorities, two sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Tuesday.

India is likely to approve Oxford/AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine for emergency use by next week after its local manufacturer submitted additional data sought by authorities, two sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Tuesday. This could be the first country to give the regulatory green light for the British drugmaker's vaccine as the British medicine regulator continues to examine data from the trials. India, the world's biggest vaccine-making country, wants to start inoculating its citizens next month and is also considering emergency use authorisation applications for vaccines made by Pfizer Inc and local company Bharat Biotech. Getting vaccines to the world's second-most populous country with one of the highest infection rates will also be a big step in the battle against the pandemic. The AstraZeneca-Oxford shot is considered vital for lower-income countries and those in hot climates because it is cheaper, easier to transport and can be stored for long periods at normal fridge temperatures. India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) first reviewed the three applications on Dec. 9 and sought more information from all the companies, including from Serum Institute of India (SII), which is making the AstraZeneca shots. Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's biggest vaccine manufacturer, has now provided all the data, the two sources said. The authorities were still waiting for more details from Pfizer, a government health adviser told a news briefing on Tuesday, while one of the sources said additional information was expected from Bharat Biotech. Both sources said Indian health officials were in direct contact with their British counterparts over the AstraZeneca shot and that there were "strong indications" an approval would come by next week. The expected approval comes after data from AstraZeneca's late-stage trials in the UK and Brazil released earlier this month showed the vaccine had efficacy of 62 per cent for trial participants given two full doses, but 90 per cent for a smaller sub-group given a half, then a full dose. The Indian regulator is only considering the two full-dose regimen of the shot despite it showing a lower success rate, the sources said. "Serum is ready," said one of the sources. "Initially, we may get around 50 million to 60 million doses." The sources declined to be named as deliberations were ongoing and the timeline could change. CDSCO chief V.G. Somani did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Bharat Biotech and Pfizer declined to comment, while SII did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. India has not yet signed a vaccine supply deal with any company, but SII has already stockpiled more than 50 million doses of the AstraZeneca shot and plans to make a total of 400 million doses by July.

India likely to approve AstraZeneca vaccine by next week: Sources

As the United Kingdom began administering people with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, researchers from the University of Oxford and pharmaceutical major AstraZeneca said that Oxford’s Covid-19 vaccine candidate has a better immune response when a two full-dose regime is used rather than a full-dose followed by a half-dose booster. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-leaders-self-isolate-after-macron-tests-covid-19-positive-350545">Also read | European leaders self-isolate after Macron tests COVID-19 positive</a> 
 
The vaccine candidate, which has been licensed to AstraZeneca, has published interim late-stage trial results showing higher efficacy when a half dose is followed by a full dose, compared to a two full-dose regime, though more work needs to be done to affirm the result.

The details from the Phase I/II clinical trials released on Thursday made no reference to the half-dose/full-dose regime, which Oxford has said had been “unplanned” but approved by regulators.

The university said it had explored two dosing regimes in early-stage trials, a full-dose/full-dose regime and a full-dose/half-dose regime, investigated as a possible “dose sparing” strategy.

“The booster doses of the vaccine are both shown to induce stronger antibody responses than a single dose, the standard dose/standard dose inducing the best response,” the university said in a statement.

The vaccine “stimulates broad antibody and T cell functions,” it said after publishing further data from the Phase I/II clinical trials. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

As the United Kingdom began administering people with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, researchers from the University of Oxford and pharmaceutical major AstraZeneca said that Oxford’s Covid-19 vaccine candidate has a better immune response when a two full-dose regime is used rather than a full-dose followed by a half-dose booster.

As the United Kingdom began administering people with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, researchers from the University of Oxford and pharmaceutical major AstraZeneca said that Oxford’s Covid-19 vaccine candidate has a better immune response when a two full-dose regime is used rather than a full-dose followed by a half-dose booster. Also read | European leaders self-isolate after Macron tests COVID-19 positive The vaccine candidate, which has been licensed to AstraZeneca, has published interim late-stage trial results showing higher efficacy when a half dose is followed by a full dose, compared to a two full-dose regime, though more work needs to be done to affirm the result. The details from the Phase I/II clinical trials released on Thursday made no reference to the half-dose/full-dose regime, which Oxford has said had been “unplanned” but approved by regulators. The university said it had explored two dosing regimes in early-stage trials, a full-dose/full-dose regime and a full-dose/half-dose regime, investigated as a possible “dose sparing” strategy. “The booster doses of the vaccine are both shown to induce stronger antibody responses than a single dose, the standard dose/standard dose inducing the best response,” the university said in a statement. The vaccine “stimulates broad antibody and T cell functions,” it said after publishing further data from the Phase I/II clinical trials. (With inputs from agencies)

Oxford says Covid-19 vaccine has good immune response with 2-dose regime

Approximately two million members of the&nbsp;Chinese Communist Party (CCP) are&nbsp;secretly embedded in some of the world`s biggest companies, banks, media groups, universities, and government agencies, according to the latest report.

An explosive data leak, obtained by 'The Australian'&nbsp;newspaper, comprises not only&nbsp;the names of around two million CCP agents but also, has their party position, birth-date, national ID number, and ethnicity.

According to the list of data, the companies which are being secretly infiltrated by CCP members include&nbsp;manufacturers such as Boeing and Volkswagen, pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer and AstraZeneca, and banks like ANZ and HSBC. 
 
"It is believed to be the first leak of its kind in the world," The Australian journalist and Sky News host Sharri Markson said. "What`s amazing about this database is not just that it exposes people who are members of the Communist Party, and who are now living and working all over the world, from Australia to the US to the UK, but it`s amazing because it lifts the lid on how the party operates under President and Chairman Xi Jinping," she added. 
 
Around 79,000 CCP branches have been set up inside western companies where members if called on, are answerable directly to the Communist Party and President Xi himself, the reports said. 
 
"It is also going to embarrass some global companies who appear to have no plan in place to protect their intellectual property from theft, from economic espionage," Markson said. 
 
The data was reportedly extracted from a server in Shanghai in 2016 by Chinese dissidents, who used it for counterintelligence purposes. It was later leaked to the international bipartisan group the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, before being sent to the international consortium of four media organisations--The Australian, the UK`s Mail on Sunday, Belgium`s De Standaard, and a Swedish editor. 
 
The Australian did not name the individual members on the list, only the companies they work for.

Approximately two million members of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) are secretly embedded in some of the world`s biggest companies, banks, media groups, universities, and government agencies, according to the latest report.

Approximately two million members of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) are secretly embedded in some of the world`s biggest companies, banks, media groups, universities, and government agencies, according to the latest report. An explosive data leak, obtained by 'The Australian' newspaper, comprises not only the names of around two million CCP agents but also, has their party position, birth-date, national ID number, and ethnicity. According to the list of data, the companies which are being secretly infiltrated by CCP members include manufacturers such as Boeing and Volkswagen, pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer and AstraZeneca, and banks like ANZ and HSBC. "It is believed to be the first leak of its kind in the world," The Australian journalist and Sky News host Sharri Markson said. "What`s amazing about this database is not just that it exposes people who are members of the Communist Party, and who are now living and working all over the world, from Australia to the US to the UK, but it`s amazing because it lifts the lid on how the party operates under President and Chairman Xi Jinping," she added. Around 79,000 CCP branches have been set up inside western companies where members if called on, are answerable directly to the Communist Party and President Xi himself, the reports said. "It is also going to embarrass some global companies who appear to have no plan in place to protect their intellectual property from theft, from economic espionage," Markson said. The data was reportedly extracted from a server in Shanghai in 2016 by Chinese dissidents, who used it for counterintelligence purposes. It was later leaked to the international bipartisan group the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, before being sent to the international consortium of four media organisations--The Australian, the UK`s Mail on Sunday, Belgium`s De Standaard, and a Swedish editor. The Australian did not name the individual members on the list, only the companies they work for.

Two million members of Chinese Communist Party infiltrating world's biggest companies: Report

Vaccines may not put an end to the pandemic. As for the virus- it may be here to stay. Past pandemics, present numbers, and experts- all corroborate this. Listen in to WION's Palki Sharma.

Gravitas Plus: Will the entry of vaccines spell the exit of the pandemic?

British pharmaceuticals group AstraZeneca, which is finalising a vaccine against Covid-19, said Saturday it was buying US biotech firm Alexion for $39 billion to boost its work on immunology.&nbsp;

"Alexion has established itself as a leader in complement biology, bringing life-changing benefits to patients with rare diseases," AstraZeneca chief executive Pascal Soriot said in a statement, announcing the year's biggest deal in the pharma sector.

"We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues at Alexion so that we can together build on our combined expertise in immunology and precision medicines to drive innovation that delivers life-changing medicines for more patients," he said.

Both boards have agreed to the cash-and-stock deal, which values Alexion at $175 a share, a premium of 45 percent to the Boston-based company's closing price on Friday.

Since taking the helm at AstraZeneca in 2012, Soriot has pushed the group into lucrative treatments such as cancer therapies, and the Alexion takeover will give it more heft in areas such as treating blood disorders.

Along with researchers from the University of Oxford, AstraZeneca has developed an effective Covid-19 vaccine which the UK government plans to use as the lynchpin of its inoculation drive, after first rolling out another vaccine by Pfizer/BioNTech.

But approval of the AstraZeneca/Oxford drug has been held up after queries over its initial trial results.&nbsp; 
On Tuesday, the UK partners became the first Covid-19 vaccine makers to publish final-stage clinical trial data in a scientific journal, clearing a key hurdle.

The new acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2021, and Alexion shareholders will own 15 percent of the combined company.

"This transaction marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Alexion," Alexion chief executive Ludwig Hantson said.

"We bring to AstraZeneca a strong portfolio, innovative rare disease pipeline, a talented global workforce and strong manufacturing capabilities in biologics," he said.

British pharmaceuticals group AstraZeneca, which is finalising a vaccine against Covid-19, said Saturday it was buying US biotech firm Alexion for $39 billion to boost its work on immunology.

British pharmaceuticals group AstraZeneca, which is finalising a vaccine against Covid-19, said Saturday it was buying US biotech firm Alexion for $39 billion to boost its work on immunology. "Alexion has established itself as a leader in complement biology, bringing life-changing benefits to patients with rare diseases," AstraZeneca chief executive Pascal Soriot said in a statement, announcing the year's biggest deal in the pharma sector. "We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues at Alexion so that we can together build on our combined expertise in immunology and precision medicines to drive innovation that delivers life-changing medicines for more patients," he said. Both boards have agreed to the cash-and-stock deal, which values Alexion at $175 a share, a premium of 45 percent to the Boston-based company's closing price on Friday. Since taking the helm at AstraZeneca in 2012, Soriot has pushed the group into lucrative treatments such as cancer therapies, and the Alexion takeover will give it more heft in areas such as treating blood disorders. Along with researchers from the University of Oxford, AstraZeneca has developed an effective Covid-19 vaccine which the UK government plans to use as the lynchpin of its inoculation drive, after first rolling out another vaccine by Pfizer/BioNTech. But approval of the AstraZeneca/Oxford drug has been held up after queries over its initial trial results. On Tuesday, the UK partners became the first Covid-19 vaccine makers to publish final-stage clinical trial data in a scientific journal, clearing a key hurdle. The new acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2021, and Alexion shareholders will own 15 percent of the combined company. "This transaction marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Alexion," Alexion chief executive Ludwig Hantson said. "We bring to AstraZeneca a strong portfolio, innovative rare disease pipeline, a talented global workforce and strong manufacturing capabilities in biologics," he said.

AstraZeneca to buy US biotech firm Alexion for USD 39 billion 

Britain`s AstraZeneca said on Friday it would investigate combining its experimental COVID-19 vaccine with Russia`s Sputnik V vaccine candidate, a move Russian scientists have suggested could sharply boost efficacy.

The developers of Sputnik V suggested on Twitter last month that AstraZeneca try the combination.

"Sputnik V is happy to share one of its two human adenoviral vectors with AstraZeneca to increase the efficacy of (the) AstraZeneca vaccine. Using two different vectors for two vaccine shots will result in higher efficacy than using the same vector for two shots," they said on Nov. 23.

In its statement on Friday, AstraZeneca said it was considering how it could assess combinations of different vaccines, and would soon begin exploring with Russia`s Gamaleya Institute, which developed Sputnik V, whether two common cold virus-based vaccines could be successfully combined.

Data published in a journal this week showed that AstraZeneca`s vaccine, being developed along with The University of Oxford, has average efficacy of 70.4%, based on a pooled analysis of interim data from late stage trials.

Russia has claimed Sputnik V is 92% effective at protecting people from COVID-19, according to interim trial results.

Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia`s RDIF sovereign wealth fund, which has funded Sputnik V, said: "This shows the strength of Sputnik V technology and our willingness and desire to partner with other vaccines to fight against COVID together."

Britain`s AstraZeneca said on Friday it would investigate combining its experimental COVID-19 vaccine with Russia`s Sputnik V vaccine candidate, a move Russian scientists have suggested could sharply boost efficacy.

Britain`s AstraZeneca said on Friday it would investigate combining its experimental COVID-19 vaccine with Russia`s Sputnik V vaccine candidate, a move Russian scientists have suggested could sharply boost efficacy. The developers of Sputnik V suggested on Twitter last month that AstraZeneca try the combination. "Sputnik V is happy to share one of its two human adenoviral vectors with AstraZeneca to increase the efficacy of (the) AstraZeneca vaccine. Using two different vectors for two vaccine shots will result in higher efficacy than using the same vector for two shots," they said on Nov. 23. In its statement on Friday, AstraZeneca said it was considering how it could assess combinations of different vaccines, and would soon begin exploring with Russia`s Gamaleya Institute, which developed Sputnik V, whether two common cold virus-based vaccines could be successfully combined. Data published in a journal this week showed that AstraZeneca`s vaccine, being developed along with The University of Oxford, has average efficacy of 70.4%, based on a pooled analysis of interim data from late stage trials. Russia has claimed Sputnik V is 92% effective at protecting people from COVID-19, according to interim trial results. Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia`s RDIF sovereign wealth fund, which has funded Sputnik V, said: "This shows the strength of Sputnik V technology and our willingness and desire to partner with other vaccines to fight against COVID together."

AstraZeneca to test combining COVID-19 vaccine with Russian shot

According to a report of The Lancet, Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective, giving good protection. But experts say this confirmation does little for regulatory bodies who are yet to approve vaccine.

The Lancet: Oxford-Astrazeneca COVID-19 vaccine is 'safe and effective'

Indian Pharmaceuticals firm Bharat Biotech is seeking emergency authorisation of its Coronavirus vaccine 'Covaxin'. This comes after Pfizer & Serum institute producing AstraZeneca vaccine have applied for the emergency use authorisation from DGCI.

India: Bharat Biotech latest to seek emergency use authorisation

The Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical firm Bharat Biotech applied to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Monday for granting emergency use authorisation for its COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin, becoming the third company after American pharma giant Pfizer and Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII) to seek emergency use authorisation for its Covid-19 vaccine candidate. 
 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-natural-immunity-from-covid-better-than-a-vaccine-347985">Is ‘natural immunity’ from COVID better than a vaccine?</a>

In its application for emergency use approval, Hyderabad-headquartered Bharat Biotech has included interim data from early- to mid-stage human trials of its vaccine candidate Covaxin. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/serum-institute-of-india-applies-for-emergency-use-authorisation-for-oxford-vaccine-348006">Also read: Serum Institute of India applies for emergency use authorisation for Oxford vaccine</a> 
 
The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had on October 23 granted permission to the firm for conducting a phase-3 clinical trial of Covaxin after assessing the safety and immunogenicity data of phase 1 and 2 trials. 
 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-sinovac-secures-515-million-to-boost-covid-vaccine-production-347999">China's Sinovac secures $515 million to boost covid vaccine production</a>&nbsp;

An expert committee of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) will meet on Wednesday to review applications of Pfizer, Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech seeking emergency use authorisation for their COVID-19 vaccine candidates.

At an all-party meeting on December 4, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed hope that a COVID-19 vaccine may be ready in a few weeks. That evening, the Indian arm of US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer had sought approval for its vaccine from the central drug regulator, after the firm secured such clearance in the UK and Bahrain.

The Serum Institute sought the nod for the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine, Covishield, on December 6.

"DCGI has already started processing the applications. The subject expert committee on COVID-19 at CDSCO will deliberate on the applications by Pfizer, Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech seeking emergency use authorisation for their COVID-19 vaccines on December 9," a source said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical firm Bharat Biotech applied to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Monday for granting emergency use authorisation for its COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin, becoming the third company after American pharma giant Pfizer and Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII) to seek emergency use authorisation for its Covid-19 vaccine candidate.

The Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical firm Bharat Biotech applied to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Monday for granting emergency use authorisation for its COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin, becoming the third company after American pharma giant Pfizer and Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII) to seek emergency use authorisation for its Covid-19 vaccine candidate. Also read | Is ‘natural immunity’ from COVID better than a vaccine? In its application for emergency use approval, Hyderabad-headquartered Bharat Biotech has included interim data from early- to mid-stage human trials of its vaccine candidate Covaxin. Also read: Serum Institute of India applies for emergency use authorisation for Oxford vaccine The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had on October 23 granted permission to the firm for conducting a phase-3 clinical trial of Covaxin after assessing the safety and immunogenicity data of phase 1 and 2 trials. Also read | China's Sinovac secures $515 million to boost covid vaccine production An expert committee of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) will meet on Wednesday to review applications of Pfizer, Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech seeking emergency use authorisation for their COVID-19 vaccine candidates. At an all-party meeting on December 4, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed hope that a COVID-19 vaccine may be ready in a few weeks. That evening, the Indian arm of US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer had sought approval for its vaccine from the central drug regulator, after the firm secured such clearance in the UK and Bahrain. The Serum Institute sought the nod for the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine, Covishield, on December 6. "DCGI has already started processing the applications. The subject expert committee on COVID-19 at CDSCO will deliberate on the applications by Pfizer, Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech seeking emergency use authorisation for their COVID-19 vaccines on December 9," a source said. (With inputs from agencies)

Bharat Biotech seeks emergency use authorisation for Indian Covid-19 vaccine; expert panel to review

The Serum Institute of India (SII) applied to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Sunday for granting emergency use authorisation for the Oxford-AstraZeneca <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a>.

The CEO and owner of the institute confirmed the news via a tweet and thanked the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and government for their "invaluable support".

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As promised, before the end of 2020, <a href="https://twitter.com/SerumInstIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SerumInstIndia</a> has applied for emergency use authorisation for the first made-in-India vaccine, COVISHIELD. This will save countless lives, and I thank the Government of India and Sri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji for their invaluable support.
— Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) <a href="https://twitter.com/adarpoonawalla/status/1335810817841717249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The phase-three clinical trial of the vaccine, named as Covishield in India, is being carried out by SII in various parts of the country.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-natural-immunity-from-covid-better-than-a-vaccine-347985">Is ‘natural immunity’ from COVID better than a vaccine?</a>

The official sources told news agency PTI, SII's application mentioned data from four clinical studies, two in the UK and one each in Brazil and India, and said that Covishield is highly efficacious against symptomatic and most importantly against severe Covid-19 cases.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-sinovac-secures-515-million-to-boost-covid-vaccine-production-347999">China's Sinovac secures $515 million to boost covid vaccine production</a>&nbsp;

"In terms of safety, Covishield was well tolerated with respect to solicited adverse events and was not associated with an increased number of SAEs and deaths. A majority of solicited reactions were mild in severity and resolved without any sequelae," said a source.&nbsp;

"Therefore, Covishield is safe and well-tolerated and can be used effectively for prevention of Covid-19 in the targeted population. Thus, the benefit to risk ratio strongly supports the widespread use of Covishield."&nbsp;

For a quick roll out of the vaccine, SII, world's largest vaccine manufacturer, entered into a collaboration with the University of Oxford and AstraZeneca to produce the drug and has already produced 40 million doses of the drug.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Serum Institute of India (SII) applied to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Sunday for granting emergency use authorisation for the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine.

The Serum Institute of India (SII) applied to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Sunday for granting emergency use authorisation for the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine. The CEO and owner of the institute confirmed the news via a tweet and thanked the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and government for their "invaluable support". As promised, before the end of 2020, @SerumInstIndia has applied for emergency use authorisation for the first made-in-India vaccine, COVISHIELD. This will save countless lives, and I thank the Government of India and Sri @narendramodi ji for their invaluable support. — Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) December 7, 2020 × The phase-three clinical trial of the vaccine, named as Covishield in India, is being carried out by SII in various parts of the country. Also read | Is ‘natural immunity’ from COVID better than a vaccine? The official sources told news agency PTI, SII's application mentioned data from four clinical studies, two in the UK and one each in Brazil and India, and said that Covishield is highly efficacious against symptomatic and most importantly against severe Covid-19 cases. Also read | China's Sinovac secures $515 million to boost covid vaccine production "In terms of safety, Covishield was well tolerated with respect to solicited adverse events and was not associated with an increased number of SAEs and deaths. A majority of solicited reactions were mild in severity and resolved without any sequelae," said a source. "Therefore, Covishield is safe and well-tolerated and can be used effectively for prevention of Covid-19 in the targeted population. Thus, the benefit to risk ratio strongly supports the widespread use of Covishield." For a quick roll out of the vaccine, SII, world's largest vaccine manufacturer, entered into a collaboration with the University of Oxford and AstraZeneca to produce the drug and has already produced 40 million doses of the drug.

Serum Institute of India applies for emergency use authorisation for Oxford vaccine

South Korea has reached a deal with AstraZeneca PLC to purchase its coronavirus vaccine candidate as it seeks to secure supplies amid a resurgence of outbreaks.

The government has said it was in final talks with global drugmakers including AstraZeneca, Pfizer Inc and Johnson &amp; Johnson over their experimental vaccines, and launched a preliminary review of the former's product in October for potential fast-track approval.

The JoongAng Ilbo newspaper said health authorities signed a contract with the Britain-based company on November 27, and were nearing agreements with Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson.

"The AstraZeneca deal has been done, and a memorandum of understanding was reached with both Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson. But further negotiations are needed to finalise the amount of supplies and the timing of shipment," the official was quoted as saying.

The Yonhap news agency also reported that an agreement with AstraZeneca was inked recently and the government would make an announcement as early as next week after completing negotiations with other firms.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said that the JoongAng report was not the government's official position but that it would finalise talks and unveil comprehensive results shortly.

The KDCA has said 172 billion won ($157 million) was set aside to buy an initial 60 million doses this year, enough to vaccinate about 60% of the country`s population of 52 million, around the second quarter of 2021. It has secured 20 million doses via the COVAX facility, an international COVID-19 vaccine allocation platform co-led by the WHO.&nbsp;

(with inputs)

South Korea has reached a deal with AstraZeneca PLC to purchase its coronavirus vaccine candidate as it seeks to secure supplies amid a resurgence of outbreaks. The government has said it was in final talks with global drugmakers including AstraZeneca, Pfizer Inc and Johnson & Johnson over their experimental vaccines, and launched a preliminary review of the former's product in October for potential fast-track approval.

South Korea has reached a deal with AstraZeneca PLC to purchase its coronavirus vaccine candidate as it seeks to secure supplies amid a resurgence of outbreaks. The government has said it was in final talks with global drugmakers including AstraZeneca, Pfizer Inc and Johnson & Johnson over their experimental vaccines, and launched a preliminary review of the former's product in October for potential fast-track approval. The JoongAng Ilbo newspaper said health authorities signed a contract with the Britain-based company on November 27, and were nearing agreements with Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. "The AstraZeneca deal has been done, and a memorandum of understanding was reached with both Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. But further negotiations are needed to finalise the amount of supplies and the timing of shipment," the official was quoted as saying. The Yonhap news agency also reported that an agreement with AstraZeneca was inked recently and the government would make an announcement as early as next week after completing negotiations with other firms. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said that the JoongAng report was not the government's official position but that it would finalise talks and unveil comprehensive results shortly. The KDCA has said 172 billion won ($157 million) was set aside to buy an initial 60 million doses this year, enough to vaccinate about 60% of the country`s population of 52 million, around the second quarter of 2021. It has secured 20 million doses via the COVAX facility, an international COVID-19 vaccine allocation platform co-led by the WHO. (with inputs)

South Korea reaches deal to buy AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine candidate

The Serum Institute of India, world's largest vaccine manufacturer, reiterated that the vaccine developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford university was safe and immunogenic.

India's Serum institute reiterates safety of AstraZeneca vaccine for COVID-19

Serum Institute of India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer, on Tuesday denied allegations that a COVID-19 trial volunteer suffered serious side effects from a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-europe-before-the-end-of-2020-pfizer-biontech-files-for-eu-approval-of-coronavirus-vaccine-346707">vaccine</a> developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University, saying that the vaccine is safe and immunogenic.

"We would want to assure everyone that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-predicts-availability-of-covid-19-vaccines-before-christmas-346646">vaccine</a> won't be released for mass use unless it is proven immunogenic, and safe," it said in a blog.

Last week, a volunteer in Chennai claimed to have suffered serious neurological and psychological symptoms after taking the experimental shot and has sued the company along with others and a sought compensation of Rs 5 crore.

"The incident with the Chennai volunteer though highly unfortunate was in no way induced by the vaccine and Serum Institute of India is sympathetic with the volunteer's medical condition," the Pune-based institute said.

Serum is conducting trials of AstraZeneca's vaccine in India as part of a manufacturing agreement. 
"Taking into consideration the complexities and existing misnomers about vaccination and immunisation; the legal notice was sent (to the volunteer) therefore to safeguard the reputation of the company which is being unfairly maligned," Serum said.

It said all the requisite regulatory and ethical processes and guidelines were followed diligently and strictly.

"The concerned authorities were informed and the principal investigator, DSMB and the Ethics Committee independently cleared and reckoned it as a non-related issue to the vaccine trial. 
"Post which, we submitted all the reports and data related to the incident to the DCGI (Drugs Controller General of India). It is only after we cleared all the required processes that we continued with the trials," it added.

In response to claims made by the volunteer, Serum had on Sunday stated that the allegations were "malicious and misconceived".

Serum Institute of India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer, on Tuesday denied allegations that a COVID-19 trial volunteer suffered serious side effects from a vaccine developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University, saying that the vaccine is safe and immunogenic.

Serum Institute of India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer, on Tuesday denied allegations that a COVID-19 trial volunteer suffered serious side effects from a vaccine developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University, saying that the vaccine is safe and immunogenic. "We would want to assure everyone that the vaccine won't be released for mass use unless it is proven immunogenic, and safe," it said in a blog. Last week, a volunteer in Chennai claimed to have suffered serious neurological and psychological symptoms after taking the experimental shot and has sued the company along with others and a sought compensation of Rs 5 crore. "The incident with the Chennai volunteer though highly unfortunate was in no way induced by the vaccine and Serum Institute of India is sympathetic with the volunteer's medical condition," the Pune-based institute said. Serum is conducting trials of AstraZeneca's vaccine in India as part of a manufacturing agreement. "Taking into consideration the complexities and existing misnomers about vaccination and immunisation; the legal notice was sent (to the volunteer) therefore to safeguard the reputation of the company which is being unfairly maligned," Serum said. It said all the requisite regulatory and ethical processes and guidelines were followed diligently and strictly. "The concerned authorities were informed and the principal investigator, DSMB and the Ethics Committee independently cleared and reckoned it as a non-related issue to the vaccine trial. "Post which, we submitted all the reports and data related to the incident to the DCGI (Drugs Controller General of India). It is only after we cleared all the required processes that we continued with the trials," it added. In response to claims made by the volunteer, Serum had on Sunday stated that the allegations were "malicious and misconceived".

AstraZeneca vaccine safe and immunogenic: Serum Institute of India

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is conducting an inquiry into a reaction to AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine trial.

A senior official at AstraZeneca told Reuters on Sunday that even after the adverse effects, there is no reason to halt the trials.

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According to to Reuters, a 40-year-old man had suffered serious “neurological and psychological” symptoms after taking the shot, which is being given to participants in the Serum Institute of India.

"There was no immediate cause of concern at this stage," Samiran Panda, head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the ICMR, said while talking to Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/sputnik-v-can-boost-efficacy-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-russian-research-centre-345769" hreflang="en">Sputnik V can boost efficacy of AstraZeneca vaccine: Russian research centre</a>

"It doesn't mean that long term assessment will not happen, it is still happening. I am aware of the activity," Panda said.

AstraZeneca has not put a statement addressing the reaction so far. The volunteer is seeking 50 million rupees ($676,288) in compensation and is also demanding the suspension of testing, and distribution of the vaccine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/oxfordastrazeneca-coronavirus-vaccine-to-undergo-new-global-trials-345677" hreflang="en">Oxford/AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to undergo new global trials</a>

"While the Serum Institute of India is sympathetic with the volunteer's medical condition, there's absolutely no correlation with the vaccine trial," the institute said.

"(The) volunteer was specifically informed by the medical team that the complications he suffered were independent of the vaccine trial he underwent," it added.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is conducting an inquiry into a reaction to AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine trial. A senior official at AstraZeneca told Reuters on Sunday that even after the adverse effects, there is no reason to halt the trials.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is conducting an inquiry into a reaction to AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine trial. A senior official at AstraZeneca told Reuters on Sunday that even after the adverse effects, there is no reason to halt the trials. According to to Reuters, a 40-year-old man had suffered serious “neurological and psychological” symptoms after taking the shot, which is being given to participants in the Serum Institute of India. "There was no immediate cause of concern at this stage," Samiran Panda, head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the ICMR, said while talking to Reuters. Also read: Sputnik V can boost efficacy of AstraZeneca vaccine: Russian research centre "It doesn't mean that long term assessment will not happen, it is still happening. I am aware of the activity," Panda said. AstraZeneca has not put a statement addressing the reaction so far. The volunteer is seeking 50 million rupees ($676,288) in compensation and is also demanding the suspension of testing, and distribution of the vaccine. Also read: Oxford/AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to undergo new global trials "While the Serum Institute of India is sympathetic with the volunteer's medical condition, there's absolutely no correlation with the vaccine trial," the institute said. "(The) volunteer was specifically informed by the medical team that the complications he suffered were independent of the vaccine trial he underwent," it added.

India: AstraZeneca vaccine causes adverse reaction in volunteer, inquiry underway

UK has asked it's independent regulator to assess Astrazeneca vaccine for possible rollout. WION brings you a report.

UK regulatory to study Aztrazeneca vaccine

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