Two doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine may be around 85- 90% effective against the symptomatic disease.

Study: 2 Astrazeneca shots 85-90% effective

Two doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine may be around 85- 90 per cent effective against symptomatic disease, Public Health England (PHE) said on Thursday, while cautioning that it did not yet have enough data to be conclusive.

Britain has suffered one of the worst death tolls globally from the pandemic, but has also had one of the fastest vaccine rollouts, generating a lot of data about the use of the shots in real-world settings.

It was the first country to roll out AstraZeneca's (AZN.L) vaccine, which faced questions over the construction of its clinical trials, the efficacy of the vaccine and the optimal gap between doses of its shot.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-expects-covid-19-vaccines-for-kids-in-late-2021-sees-need-for-booster-shot-386496" hreflang="en">Fauci expects COVID-19 vaccines for kids in late 2021, sees need for booster shot</a>

PHE said the preliminary findings were the first of its kind on the effectiveness of two doses of AstraZeneca in a real-world setting but cautioned that it had "low confidence" in the findings, and the results would be inconclusive until more evidence was gathered.

In a weekly surveillance report, Public Health England said the estimated effectiveness of the AstraZeneca vaccine, invented at the University of Oxford, was 89 per cent&nbsp;compared to unvaccinated people.

That compares to 90 per cent&nbsp;estimated effectiveness against symptomatic disease for the Pfizer/BioNTech (PFE.N), vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secretary-of-state-confirms-the-us-does-not-want-to-buy-greenland-386495" hreflang="en">Secretary of State confirms the US does not want to buy Greenland</a>

"This new data highlights the incredible impact that both doses of the vaccine can have, with a second dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine providing up to 90% protection," vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said.

AstraZeneca welcomed the preliminary findings.

"This latest real-world data from PHE adds to the growing body of evidence that demonstrates the effectiveness of our vaccine against COVID-19," a spokesman said.

"It is reassuring to see the data from both the Pfizer and Oxford AstraZeneca vaccines. They are essentially comparable in terms of effectiveness against symptomatic disease, which is very high after two doses," said Michael Head, Senior Research Fellow in Global Health at the University of Southampton.

Britain has been rolling out the shots manufactured by Pfizer and AstraZeneca since December and January respectively, and in April also started deploying Moderna's (MRNA.O) vaccine.

PHE said there was a "small reduction in vaccine effectiveness" from 10 weeks after the first dose of the Pfizer shot before the second shot is given.

Britain extended the gap between doses to 12 weeks, though Pfizer warned there was a lack of evidence of its efficacy outside the three-week gap used in trials.

Last week, Britain cut the gap between doses down to eight weeks for the over 50s, aiming to give maximum protection to more vulnerable people in light of concern about the B.1.617.2 variant first found in India.

Two doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine may be around 85- 90 per cent effective against symptomatic disease, Public Health England (PHE) said on Thursday, while cautioning that it did not yet have enough data to be conclusive.

Two doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine may be around 85- 90 per cent effective against symptomatic disease, Public Health England (PHE) said on Thursday, while cautioning that it did not yet have enough data to be conclusive. Britain has suffered one of the worst death tolls globally from the pandemic, but has also had one of the fastest vaccine rollouts, generating a lot of data about the use of the shots in real-world settings. It was the first country to roll out AstraZeneca's (AZN.L) vaccine, which faced questions over the construction of its clinical trials, the efficacy of the vaccine and the optimal gap between doses of its shot. Also read | Fauci expects COVID-19 vaccines for kids in late 2021, sees need for booster shot PHE said the preliminary findings were the first of its kind on the effectiveness of two doses of AstraZeneca in a real-world setting but cautioned that it had "low confidence" in the findings, and the results would be inconclusive until more evidence was gathered. In a weekly surveillance report, Public Health England said the estimated effectiveness of the AstraZeneca vaccine, invented at the University of Oxford, was 89 per cent compared to unvaccinated people. That compares to 90 per cent estimated effectiveness against symptomatic disease for the Pfizer/BioNTech (PFE.N), vaccine. Also read | Secretary of State confirms the US does not want to buy Greenland "This new data highlights the incredible impact that both doses of the vaccine can have, with a second dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine providing up to 90% protection," vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said. AstraZeneca welcomed the preliminary findings. "This latest real-world data from PHE adds to the growing body of evidence that demonstrates the effectiveness of our vaccine against COVID-19," a spokesman said. "It is reassuring to see the data from both the Pfizer and Oxford AstraZeneca vaccines. They are essentially comparable in terms of effectiveness against symptomatic disease, which is very high after two doses," said Michael Head, Senior Research Fellow in Global Health at the University of Southampton. Britain has been rolling out the shots manufactured by Pfizer and AstraZeneca since December and January respectively, and in April also started deploying Moderna's (MRNA.O) vaccine. PHE said there was a "small reduction in vaccine effectiveness" from 10 weeks after the first dose of the Pfizer shot before the second shot is given. Britain extended the gap between doses to 12 weeks, though Pfizer warned there was a lack of evidence of its efficacy outside the three-week gap used in trials. Last week, Britain cut the gap between doses down to eight weeks for the over 50s, aiming to give maximum protection to more vulnerable people in light of concern about the B.1.617.2 variant first found in India.

Two AstraZeneca shots could be 85-90% effective, UK real life data suggests

The US will release four million doses of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to its neighbours, Canada and Mexico.

COVID-19 Vaccines: US to share Pfizer, Biontech, Moderna, J&J vaccines

Major regulators have listed blood clots as a rare side effect of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. India has found 26 suspected cases of bleeding and clotting among recipients of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

Coronavirus Update: India finds 'minuscule' clot risk from AstraZeneca jab

More than a quarter of adults in the&nbsp;European&nbsp;Union&nbsp;would be unlikely to take the COVID-19 vaccine when it was offered to them, a survey published on Thursday showed.

The results also suggested a strong link between vaccine hesitancy and the use of social media, particularly where social media is the main source of information, according to Eurofound which carried out the survey.

"Unfortunately, these findings reflect a failure to deliver persuasive and clear communication regarding the efficacy and safety of vaccines," said Daphne Ahrendt, Eurofound senior research manager.

Bulgarians were the most reluctant to get the vaccine, with 67 per cent&nbsp;of adults saying they were unlikely or very unlikely to get it. In Ireland, only 10&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of adults said they would not get the shot.

The survey found an east-west divide across Europe. Except for France and Austria, the intention to get vaccinated was above 60&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;in all Western member states - with Nordic and Mediterranean countries, Denmark and Ireland having even higher rates.

The rate of planned uptake in Eastern member states was much lower, ranging from 59 per cent in Romania to 33 per cent&nbsp;in Bulgaria.

The main influence on vaccine hesitancy was the time spent on social media and which medium was used, the survey said. The proportion rises to 40% among those who use social media as their primary source of news.

Among people who used traditional media including press, radio and television, only 18 per cent&nbsp;of respondents were vaccine sceptics.

The survey also found that students, employed or retired people were less vaccine hesitant than average, while 39 per cent&nbsp;of unemployed people or those with a long-term disease of disability were more hesitant.

The survey was conducted between February and March 2021, after a full year of living with COVID-19 restrictions across the bloc's 27 member states.

More than a quarter of adults in the European Union would be unlikely to take the COVID-19 vaccine when it was offered to them, a survey published on Thursday showed.

More than a quarter of adults in the European Union would be unlikely to take the COVID-19 vaccine when it was offered to them, a survey published on Thursday showed. The results also suggested a strong link between vaccine hesitancy and the use of social media, particularly where social media is the main source of information, according to Eurofound which carried out the survey. "Unfortunately, these findings reflect a failure to deliver persuasive and clear communication regarding the efficacy and safety of vaccines," said Daphne Ahrendt, Eurofound senior research manager. Bulgarians were the most reluctant to get the vaccine, with 67 per cent of adults saying they were unlikely or very unlikely to get it. In Ireland, only 10 per cent of adults said they would not get the shot. The survey found an east-west divide across Europe. Except for France and Austria, the intention to get vaccinated was above 60 per cent in all Western member states - with Nordic and Mediterranean countries, Denmark and Ireland having even higher rates. The rate of planned uptake in Eastern member states was much lower, ranging from 59 per cent in Romania to 33 per cent in Bulgaria. The main influence on vaccine hesitancy was the time spent on social media and which medium was used, the survey said. The proportion rises to 40% among those who use social media as their primary source of news. Among people who used traditional media including press, radio and television, only 18 per cent of respondents were vaccine sceptics. The survey also found that students, employed or retired people were less vaccine hesitant than average, while 39 per cent of unemployed people or those with a long-term disease of disability were more hesitant. The survey was conducted between February and March 2021, after a full year of living with COVID-19 restrictions across the bloc's 27 member states.

Over a quarter of EU adults would refuse COVID-19 shot, survey says

AstraZeneca went from being the world’s best bet against COVID-19 to an embattled vaccine. First, the company was hit by shortages and was accused of over-promising doses.

Then came the blood clots. One by one, countries started abandoning them. Instead of fighting these controversies, the company is adding to them. AstraZeneca is offering a big fat bonus to its CEO Pascal Soriot while big pharma is being dragged through the streets. They have been condemned for not sharing vaccine formulas, their profits are being called loot.

In the midst of this, AstraZeneca has offered a bumper bonus to its top boss. The bonus in question is 250 per cent of his base salary. Last year, it was 200 per cent. But in the middle of a pharma crunch, they have bumped it up by 50 per cent. 1.8 million dollars is Soriot’s base salary. 250 per cent of that is Soriot's maximum annual bonus.

The real money comes from share bonuses which was 550 per cent of his base salary last year. This year, it has been raised to 650 per cent. There is no guarantee that Soriot will get all of this, for it depends on whether he hits the company's targets.

Now let's assume that AstraZeneca has a cracking year with great vaccine sales, no controversies and good sentiments in Wall Street. If this happens, Pascal Soriot could take home more than 20 million dollars in 2021. The median income of employees at AstraZeneca is 95,000 dollars. Their CEO earns 267 times more than that. And AstraZeneca is not the only one. This is what CEOs at other pharma giants take home.

Pfizer pays their top boss 21 million dollars. Johnson and Johnson pays 23 million and Moderna pays 13 million. CEOs have always taken home the lion's share - that's how capitalism is built.

Was it right to clear this bonus in the middle of a pandemic?

Soriot has done wonders at AstraZeneca - the share prices have tripled under him and the company is now valued at 100 billion dollars. But even shareholders were split on the decision to offer him a bonus. They gathered for the annual company meeting in Cambridge.

40 per cent of investors opposed the bonus including some big names in fund management like Aviva investors and Standard Life Aberdeen. But a majority backed the move. So Soriot is getting a big cheque this year. The debate around his salary will continue but AstraZeneca has bigger worries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/covid-19-canadas-largest-province-halts-astrazeneca-first-doses-over-blood-clot-384495" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Canada's largest province halts AstraZeneca first doses&nbsp;over blood clot</a>

More and more countries have stopped using their vaccine. The latest are Brazil and Slovakia. In Brazil, pregnant women will not be given the AstraZeneca jab. They say it could possibly trigger strokes. Only one instance has been reported so far in Brazil. Slovakia is saying something similar and have linked a 47-year-old woman's death to the vaccine.

Canada's largest province, Ontario will also stop using AstraZeneca on account of blood clots. In Europe, most of the countries have resumed the rollout. A few like Denmark and Norway have opted against it.

The European Union has filed a second lawsuit which could possibly lead to some big fines. Over-promising shots has come back to haunt them. On top of all this, there is pressure on the company to share its formulas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/following-a-death-brazil-suspends-use-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-for-pregnant-women-384407" hreflang="en">Following a death, Brazil suspends use of AstraZeneca vaccine for pregnant women</a>

There was a small protest at the AstraZeneca campus in the UK. Their vaccine is cheap, easy to store and effective. So it could hold the key to vaccinating the developing world. But AstraZeneca doesn't agree. They keep talking about selling their vaccines at cost which means they are not profiting from their jab.

There is no denying that AstraZeneca is a game changer and it is probably the most important vaccine in the world because the likes of Pfizer are never going to focus on Africa and Latin America.

AstraZeneca went from being the world’s best bet against COVID-19 to an embattled vaccine. First, the company was hit by shortages and was accused of over-promising doses.

AstraZeneca went from being the world’s best bet against COVID-19 to an embattled vaccine. First, the company was hit by shortages and was accused of over-promising doses. Then came the blood clots. One by one, countries started abandoning them. Instead of fighting these controversies, the company is adding to them. AstraZeneca is offering a big fat bonus to its CEO Pascal Soriot while big pharma is being dragged through the streets. They have been condemned for not sharing vaccine formulas, their profits are being called loot. In the midst of this, AstraZeneca has offered a bumper bonus to its top boss. The bonus in question is 250 per cent of his base salary. Last year, it was 200 per cent. But in the middle of a pharma crunch, they have bumped it up by 50 per cent. 1.8 million dollars is Soriot’s base salary. 250 per cent of that is Soriot's maximum annual bonus. The real money comes from share bonuses which was 550 per cent of his base salary last year. This year, it has been raised to 650 per cent. There is no guarantee that Soriot will get all of this, for it depends on whether he hits the company's targets. Now let's assume that AstraZeneca has a cracking year with great vaccine sales, no controversies and good sentiments in Wall Street. If this happens, Pascal Soriot could take home more than 20 million dollars in 2021. The median income of employees at AstraZeneca is 95,000 dollars. Their CEO earns 267 times more than that. And AstraZeneca is not the only one. This is what CEOs at other pharma giants take home. Pfizer pays their top boss 21 million dollars. Johnson and Johnson pays 23 million and Moderna pays 13 million. CEOs have always taken home the lion's share - that's how capitalism is built. Was it right to clear this bonus in the middle of a pandemic? Soriot has done wonders at AstraZeneca - the share prices have tripled under him and the company is now valued at 100 billion dollars. But even shareholders were split on the decision to offer him a bonus. They gathered for the annual company meeting in Cambridge. 40 per cent of investors opposed the bonus including some big names in fund management like Aviva investors and Standard Life Aberdeen. But a majority backed the move. So Soriot is getting a big cheque this year. The debate around his salary will continue but AstraZeneca has bigger worries. Also read: COVID-19: Canada's largest province halts AstraZeneca first doses over blood clot More and more countries have stopped using their vaccine. The latest are Brazil and Slovakia. In Brazil, pregnant women will not be given the AstraZeneca jab. They say it could possibly trigger strokes. Only one instance has been reported so far in Brazil. Slovakia is saying something similar and have linked a 47-year-old woman's death to the vaccine. Canada's largest province, Ontario will also stop using AstraZeneca on account of blood clots. In Europe, most of the countries have resumed the rollout. A few like Denmark and Norway have opted against it. The European Union has filed a second lawsuit which could possibly lead to some big fines. Over-promising shots has come back to haunt them. On top of all this, there is pressure on the company to share its formulas. Also read: Following a death, Brazil suspends use of AstraZeneca vaccine for pregnant women There was a small protest at the AstraZeneca campus in the UK. Their vaccine is cheap, easy to store and effective. So it could hold the key to vaccinating the developing world. But AstraZeneca doesn't agree. They keep talking about selling their vaccines at cost which means they are not profiting from their jab. There is no denying that AstraZeneca is a game changer and it is probably the most important vaccine in the world because the likes of Pfizer are never going to focus on Africa and Latin America.

Why offering a fat bonus to its CEO sets the wrong tone for AstraZeneca

Several Brazilian states have suspended the use of AstraZeneca’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a> for pregnant women after the national health regulator expressed concerns over a reported death.

As of now, it has not been established whether or not the vaccine was the cause of the death. However, the states have decided to suspend the use till the health ministry establishes a cause of death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/risk-for-erectile-dysfunction-six-fold-higher-in-men-with-covid-19-384317" hreflang="en">Risk for erectile dysfunction six-fold higher in men with COVID-19</a>

The decision has been taken by a team of experts and is based "exclusively on technical criteria". Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga told a news conference.

"It is not clear that the vaccine caused this blood clot. We are analysing the details of the whole case to reach a conclusion and clarify what happened," Jorge Kalil, consultant for the National Vaccination Programme, said.

States that have suspended the use of the AstraZeneca include Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, among others.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-is-black-fungus-or-mucormycosis-384376">Watch |</a>

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This decision was announced in the late hours of Monday by the country’s health regulator, Anvisa, after its "constant monitoring of adverse events with anti-Covid vaccines used in the country".

The women who have already been administered the first shot should hold off getting the second dose and wait for further orders by the health ministry.

AstraZeneca, meanwhile, has said in a statement that pregnant women and nursing mothers were not included in the vaccine tests as "there were no adverse effects related to pregnancy observed in studies on animals".

Several Brazilian states have suspended the use of AstraZeneca’s coronavirus vaccine for pregnant women after the national health regulator expressed concerns over a reported death.

Several Brazilian states have suspended the use of AstraZeneca’s coronavirus vaccine for pregnant women after the national health regulator expressed concerns over a reported death. As of now, it has not been established whether or not the vaccine was the cause of the death. However, the states have decided to suspend the use till the health ministry establishes a cause of death. Also read | Risk for erectile dysfunction six-fold higher in men with COVID-19 The decision has been taken by a team of experts and is based "exclusively on technical criteria". Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga told a news conference. "It is not clear that the vaccine caused this blood clot. We are analysing the details of the whole case to reach a conclusion and clarify what happened," Jorge Kalil, consultant for the National Vaccination Programme, said. States that have suspended the use of the AstraZeneca include Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, among others. Watch | This decision was announced in the late hours of Monday by the country’s health regulator, Anvisa, after its "constant monitoring of adverse events with anti-Covid vaccines used in the country". The women who have already been administered the first shot should hold off getting the second dose and wait for further orders by the health ministry. AstraZeneca, meanwhile, has said in a statement that pregnant women and nursing mothers were not included in the vaccine tests as "there were no adverse effects related to pregnancy observed in studies on animals".

Following a death, Brazil suspends use of AstraZeneca vaccine for pregnant women

Several Brazilian states have suspended the use of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant women after an expectant mother in Rio de Janeiro died from a stroke possibly related to the inoculation.

Brazil suspends use of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant women

Canada's largest province said on Tuesday it will stop giving out first doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine due to concerns over its link to rare blood clots.&nbsp;

Ontario's chief medical officer for health, Dr David Williams, said the decision was made out of an abundance of caution because of increased instances of the rare blood clotting disorder linked to the shot. &nbsp;

AstraZeneca is restricted in some European countries because of a potential link to extremely rare blood clots.&nbsp;

"Over the last few days, there have been increased reports," Williams said. "We are reviewing the data to consider options for the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine for second doses and more broadly."&nbsp;

In Canada, at least 12 cases have been confirmed out of more than two million doses given, and three women have died.&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ontario Premier Doug Ford both received AstraZeneca first dose in recent weeks. Williams said people who got the first dose of AstraZeneca 'absolutely did the right thing’.&nbsp;

Dr Andrew Morris, a professor of infectious diseases at the University of Toronto and the medical director of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme at Sinai-University Health Network, does not believe Canada should be using AstraZeneca any longer now that Canada has large supplies of other vaccines.&nbsp;

"It's the right thing to do," he said.&nbsp;

Morris said experts don't know yet what to do about people, who got only the first dose. Health officials are awaiting results of a clinical trial in the United Kingdom looking at giving a different vaccine for the second dose. That would allow people, who got AstraZeneca first to be given Pfizer or Moderna for their second dose.&nbsp;

Alberta is also no longer administrating first doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine but only because of a lack of supply. &nbsp;

Pfizer and Moderna are sending more than enough doses to vaccinate every Canadian with two doses eventually.&nbsp;

Trudeau said almost 50% of eligible adults in Canada have received at least one shot of a coronavirus vaccine. Most of that is Pfizer and Moderna. &nbsp;

Trudeau said by the summer, Canada will have enough vaccines so that every eligible resident will have gotten their first dose and by September, it will have enough doses for everyone to be fully vaccinated. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Canada's largest province said on Tuesday it will stop giving out first doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine due to concerns over its link to rare blood clots.

Canada's largest province said on Tuesday it will stop giving out first doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine due to concerns over its link to rare blood clots. Ontario's chief medical officer for health, Dr David Williams, said the decision was made out of an abundance of caution because of increased instances of the rare blood clotting disorder linked to the shot. AstraZeneca is restricted in some European countries because of a potential link to extremely rare blood clots. "Over the last few days, there have been increased reports," Williams said. "We are reviewing the data to consider options for the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine for second doses and more broadly." In Canada, at least 12 cases have been confirmed out of more than two million doses given, and three women have died. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ontario Premier Doug Ford both received AstraZeneca first dose in recent weeks. Williams said people who got the first dose of AstraZeneca 'absolutely did the right thing’. Dr Andrew Morris, a professor of infectious diseases at the University of Toronto and the medical director of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme at Sinai-University Health Network, does not believe Canada should be using AstraZeneca any longer now that Canada has large supplies of other vaccines. "It's the right thing to do," he said. Morris said experts don't know yet what to do about people, who got only the first dose. Health officials are awaiting results of a clinical trial in the United Kingdom looking at giving a different vaccine for the second dose. That would allow people, who got AstraZeneca first to be given Pfizer or Moderna for their second dose. Alberta is also no longer administrating first doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine but only because of a lack of supply. Pfizer and Moderna are sending more than enough doses to vaccinate every Canadian with two doses eventually. Trudeau said almost 50% of eligible adults in Canada have received at least one shot of a coronavirus vaccine. Most of that is Pfizer and Moderna. Trudeau said by the summer, Canada will have enough vaccines so that every eligible resident will have gotten their first dose and by September, it will have enough doses for everyone to be fully vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Canada's largest province halts AstraZeneca first doses over blood clot

The European Union is ditching the AstraZeneca vaccine for the Pfizer shot. The bloc hasn't placed new orders for the Oxford vaccine beyond June. Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: European Union ditches AstraZeneca

Vaccine maker AstraZeneca is suffering one setback after another. The world was betting big on AstraZeneca last year before the global vaccine rollout.

But now, one of its biggest buyers is dumping AstraZeneca vaccines. The European Union (EU) will not buy more vaccines from AstraZeneca beyond June.

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It was a troubled relationship from the word go. But now, it is edging closer to a break-up. The EU is turning away from AstraZeneca Wuhan virus vaccine. It has placed orders till June and not beyond.

Europe will not renew the deal with AstraZeneca.

"Who could have known last Autumn which vaccine would work or not? I think it was a good policy to buy as many vaccines with all the solutions possible, which most other countries and world powers have done. We had to buy mRNA, Adenovirus, protein subunit so we got everything that was available because no one knew what would work. We now have feedback," said Emmanuel Macron, president of France.

"We use this vaccine in France and in Europe, and we must continue to do so because it will help us get out of this crisis. But to combat the variants, on future orders, we see that other vaccines are more efficient. So this shows European pragmatism which I am proud of."

The French president is talking about Pfizer. The EU recently struck a new deal to buy more than one billion doses of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine.

When the pandemic began, the EU was betting on the AstraZeneca shot to vaccinate more than 400 million citizens. But now it has switched to Pfizer. Needless to say, that's bad news for AstraZeneca.

And only the latest in a string of setbacks, Denmark has already stopped using the shot after some patients developed rare blood clots.

Since then, Europeans have either limited the use of this vaccine or stopped administering it altogether. Sweden donated its stockpile of one million AstraZeneca vaccines to Covax. It is the WHO programme for equitable global access for vaccines.

For AstraZeneca, the final blow came from Norway.&nbsp;

Oslo too has suspended the use of this vaccine. But well before the cases of blood clots emerged, AstraZeneca and the European Union engaged in a public spat.

The European leadership blamed the company for its slow vaccine rollout. It claimed that in the first three months of 2021, AstraZeneca delivered just 30 million shots out of the promised 90 million.

In the second quarter, AstraZeneca could deliver only 70 million out of the promised 180 million doses. The tussle ultimately led to a raid by the Italian police on an AstraZeneca facility outside Rome. The EU followed this up with a lawsuit against the company.

What has happened in Europe could be the beginning of a storm for AstraZeneca. The UK has tweaked its advisory. British experts now say the shot shouldn't be given to people under 40 years of age. Canada too has limited the use of the shot.

Last week an expert panel said that Pfizer and Moderna vaccines should be the go-to choice for Canada. When the AstraZeneca jab was rolled out,&nbsp;it was one of the world's most promising shots because of its high efficacy and low prices.

Six months on, it is not the West's favourite shot. Blame it on pharma wars.

Or rich countries being spoilt for choice.

Vaccine maker AstraZeneca is suffering one setback after another. The world was betting big on AstraZeneca last year before the global vaccine rollout. But now, one of its biggest buyers is dumping AstraZeneca vaccines.

Vaccine maker AstraZeneca is suffering one setback after another. The world was betting big on AstraZeneca last year before the global vaccine rollout. But now, one of its biggest buyers is dumping AstraZeneca vaccines. The European Union (EU) will not buy more vaccines from AstraZeneca beyond June. × It was a troubled relationship from the word go. But now, it is edging closer to a break-up. The EU is turning away from AstraZeneca Wuhan virus vaccine. It has placed orders till June and not beyond. Europe will not renew the deal with AstraZeneca. "Who could have known last Autumn which vaccine would work or not? I think it was a good policy to buy as many vaccines with all the solutions possible, which most other countries and world powers have done. We had to buy mRNA, Adenovirus, protein subunit so we got everything that was available because no one knew what would work. We now have feedback," said Emmanuel Macron, president of France. "We use this vaccine in France and in Europe, and we must continue to do so because it will help us get out of this crisis. But to combat the variants, on future orders, we see that other vaccines are more efficient. So this shows European pragmatism which I am proud of." The French president is talking about Pfizer. The EU recently struck a new deal to buy more than one billion doses of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine. When the pandemic began, the EU was betting on the AstraZeneca shot to vaccinate more than 400 million citizens. But now it has switched to Pfizer. Needless to say, that's bad news for AstraZeneca. And only the latest in a string of setbacks, Denmark has already stopped using the shot after some patients developed rare blood clots. Since then, Europeans have either limited the use of this vaccine or stopped administering it altogether. Sweden donated its stockpile of one million AstraZeneca vaccines to Covax. It is the WHO programme for equitable global access for vaccines. For AstraZeneca, the final blow came from Norway. Oslo too has suspended the use of this vaccine. But well before the cases of blood clots emerged, AstraZeneca and the European Union engaged in a public spat. The European leadership blamed the company for its slow vaccine rollout. It claimed that in the first three months of 2021, AstraZeneca delivered just 30 million shots out of the promised 90 million. In the second quarter, AstraZeneca could deliver only 70 million out of the promised 180 million doses. The tussle ultimately led to a raid by the Italian police on an AstraZeneca facility outside Rome. The EU followed this up with a lawsuit against the company. What has happened in Europe could be the beginning of a storm for AstraZeneca. The UK has tweaked its advisory. British experts now say the shot shouldn't be given to people under 40 years of age. Canada too has limited the use of the shot. Last week an expert panel said that Pfizer and Moderna vaccines should be the go-to choice for Canada. When the AstraZeneca jab was rolled out, it was one of the world's most promising shots because of its high efficacy and low prices. Six months on, it is not the West's favourite shot. Blame it on pharma wars. Or rich countries being spoilt for choice.

AstraZeneca Covid vaccine is no longer West's favourite jab

The European Union has seemingly decided not to renew its deal with pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca for its Covid-19 vaccine according to a leading official.

EU to launch new legal action against AstraZeneca

The European Union is all set to launch a second legal case against AstraZeneca over its delayed deliveries of COVID-19 vaccines. The move is mostly procedural after a first case was launched in April, according to a leading official.

EU to launch new legal action against AstraZeneca over vaccine deliveries

AstraZeneca Plc has delivered 50 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine to European Union countries, according to EU`s latest supply data, a milestone it was originally due to hit in January. 
 
Repeated cuts to supplies, which contributed to delays in the EU`s vaccination drive, pushed the European executive commission to sue the Anglo-Swedish drugmaker in late April in a bid to get more doses by mid-year. 
 
AstraZeneca had shipped nearly 50 million doses as of May 7, an EU official told Reuters on Monday, citing the latest EU internal figures on vaccine supplies. 
 
In mid-March, the company had pledged to deliver 50.2 million doses to the EU by the end of April, an AstraZeneca document seen by Reuters shows. 
 
But AstraZeneca had shipped only 47.6 million doses by the evening of April 30, a spokesman for the company said, adding that other doses were sent over the first weekend of May and in the following days "following requests to not ship to a few countries that had public holidays during this period". 
 
Immediately after the EU sued the company, AstraZeneca issued a statement on April 26 saying it would deliver "almost 50 million doses to European countries by the end of April". 
 
Under its contract with the EU, the company had committed to its "best reasonable efforts" to deliver 300 million doses by the end of June, of which 70 million were supposed to be delivered by the end of January. 
 
Citing production problems and export restrictions, AstraZeneca in March said it would deliver to the EU only 100 million doses by the end of June. It delivered 30 million in total by the end of March. 
 
The vaccine was approved for use in the EU in late January, but the EU Commission has said AstraZeneca should have applied earlier.

AstraZeneca Plc has delivered 50 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine to European Union countries, according to EU`s latest supply data, a milestone it was originally due to hit in January.

AstraZeneca Plc has delivered 50 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine to European Union countries, according to EU`s latest supply data, a milestone it was originally due to hit in January. Repeated cuts to supplies, which contributed to delays in the EU`s vaccination drive, pushed the European executive commission to sue the Anglo-Swedish drugmaker in late April in a bid to get more doses by mid-year. AstraZeneca had shipped nearly 50 million doses as of May 7, an EU official told Reuters on Monday, citing the latest EU internal figures on vaccine supplies. In mid-March, the company had pledged to deliver 50.2 million doses to the EU by the end of April, an AstraZeneca document seen by Reuters shows. But AstraZeneca had shipped only 47.6 million doses by the evening of April 30, a spokesman for the company said, adding that other doses were sent over the first weekend of May and in the following days "following requests to not ship to a few countries that had public holidays during this period". Immediately after the EU sued the company, AstraZeneca issued a statement on April 26 saying it would deliver "almost 50 million doses to European countries by the end of April". Under its contract with the EU, the company had committed to its "best reasonable efforts" to deliver 300 million doses by the end of June, of which 70 million were supposed to be delivered by the end of January. Citing production problems and export restrictions, AstraZeneca in March said it would deliver to the EU only 100 million doses by the end of June. It delivered 30 million in total by the end of March. The vaccine was approved for use in the EU in late January, but the EU Commission has said AstraZeneca should have applied earlier.

AstraZeneca finally delivers vaccines to EU which were due in January

American civil rights activist Rev Jesse Jackson has announced plans to personally talk to US President Joe Biden and urge him to send 60 million AstraZeneca vaccine doses to India as the South Asian country battles a covid crisis.

His request has come as the AstraZeneca vaccine has not been approved by the US and expected to not get a nod from the Biden administration anytime soon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-second-wave-in-india-a-tragedy-says-us-surgeon-general-dr-vivek-murthy-383432" hreflang="en">Covid second wave in India a tragedy, says US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy</a>

“They are human beings. As the wind blows, if we don't stop it today, it'll spread around the world,” Jackson said.

He decided to make this request as Biden had said he intends to give the AstraZeneca vaccine shots to other countries who are in need of it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sets-yet-another-record-with-over-414000-new-covid-19-cases-death-toll-stands-at-234083-383383" hreflang="en">India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083</a>

Jackson believes mass vaccination programmes seem to be the only way India can come out of this coronavirus crisis. Other Indian-Americans have also shared Jackson’s sentiments.

“It is everyone's duty to help India flatten this COVID-19 surge as we live in a world that cannot be separated by borders,” said Dr Vijay Prabhakar, the chairman of American Association of Multiethnic Physicians.

Some experts have also raised concerns about a steep increase in covid death toll in the country. “Based on the current projections some of the models are suggesting, there may be 1 million deaths by the end of August. As we know, that would be a tragic humanitarian crisis,” said Dr Srinivas Reddy, the trustee of Chicago Medical Society.

American civil rights activist Rev Jesse Jackson has announced plans to personally talk to US President Joe Biden and urge him to send 60 million AstraZeneca vaccine doses to India as the South Asian country battles a covid crisis.

American civil rights activist Rev Jesse Jackson has announced plans to personally talk to US President Joe Biden and urge him to send 60 million AstraZeneca vaccine doses to India as the South Asian country battles a covid crisis. His request has come as the AstraZeneca vaccine has not been approved by the US and expected to not get a nod from the Biden administration anytime soon. Also read | Covid second wave in India a tragedy, says US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy “They are human beings. As the wind blows, if we don't stop it today, it'll spread around the world,” Jackson said. He decided to make this request as Biden had said he intends to give the AstraZeneca vaccine shots to other countries who are in need of it. Also read | India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083 Jackson believes mass vaccination programmes seem to be the only way India can come out of this coronavirus crisis. Other Indian-Americans have also shared Jackson’s sentiments. “It is everyone's duty to help India flatten this COVID-19 surge as we live in a world that cannot be separated by borders,” said Dr Vijay Prabhakar, the chairman of American Association of Multiethnic Physicians. Some experts have also raised concerns about a steep increase in covid death toll in the country. “Based on the current projections some of the models are suggesting, there may be 1 million deaths by the end of August. As we know, that would be a tragic humanitarian crisis,” said Dr Srinivas Reddy, the trustee of Chicago Medical Society.

American civil rights activist Rev Jesse Jackson urges Biden to give AstraZeneca vaccine to India

Health Minister Jens Spahn has said that Germany will allow AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine to be administered to adults of all ages and aims to offer 12-18-year-olds a vaccine by the end of August as it seeks to speed up its rollout.

Germany to offer AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to all adults

The global pandemic played a key role in an economic downturn with lockdowns and work interruptions.&nbsp;

But the top bosses of some biopharmaceutical companies developing vaccines that are playing a key role in the battle against COVID-19 saw boosts in their annual compensation.

According to a report&nbsp;circulated in media this week, AstraZeneca&nbsp;proposed an increase in Pascal Soriot's long-term share award from 550% to 650% of his £1.3 million base salary.

AstraZeneca has faced several pay revolts over the years, despite the successful turnaround of the company under Soriot, chief executive since 2012.

In 2020, Soriot took home $21.4 million in annual compensation. Soriot’s base pay is $1.79 million. His salary was boosted by an annual bonus of $3.19 million, as well as payouts of $15.4 million under a long-term incentive plan.

Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has been threatened with legal action by the European Union over its delivery of vaccines to the bloc, while missteps over vaccine data have risked undermining the company's reputation.

Today, Canadian province of Alberta reported its first death of a patient from a rare blood clot condition after receiving the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

The Alberta case marks the second case of blood clots, and the only death after more than 253,000 doses of AstraZeneca was administered in the province, the statement added.

AstraZeneca did not immediately respond to a media request for comment.

(With inputs from agencies)

The global pandemic played a key role in an economic downturn with lockdowns and work interruptions. But the top bosses of some biopharmaceutical companies developing vaccines that are playing a key role in the battle against COVID-19 saw boosts in their annual compensation.

The global pandemic played a key role in an economic downturn with lockdowns and work interruptions. But the top bosses of some biopharmaceutical companies developing vaccines that are playing a key role in the battle against COVID-19 saw boosts in their annual compensation. According to a report circulated in media this week, AstraZeneca proposed an increase in Pascal Soriot's long-term share award from 550% to 650% of his £1.3 million base salary. AstraZeneca has faced several pay revolts over the years, despite the successful turnaround of the company under Soriot, chief executive since 2012. In 2020, Soriot took home $21.4 million in annual compensation. Soriot’s base pay is $1.79 million. His salary was boosted by an annual bonus of $3.19 million, as well as payouts of $15.4 million under a long-term incentive plan. Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has been threatened with legal action by the European Union over its delivery of vaccines to the bloc, while missteps over vaccine data have risked undermining the company's reputation. Today, Canadian province of Alberta reported its first death of a patient from a rare blood clot condition after receiving the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. The Alberta case marks the second case of blood clots, and the only death after more than 253,000 doses of AstraZeneca was administered in the province, the statement added. AstraZeneca did not immediately respond to a media request for comment. (With inputs from agencies)

Major hike in AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot’s bonus prompts investor anger

Malaysia&nbsp;will begin a parallel COVID-19 innoculation programme this week for people who chose to receive the&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;vaccine, after it was removed from an ongoing rollout due to public fears over its safety, a minister said on Monday.

Reports of possible links to very rare blood clots have dented confidence in the shot in&nbsp;Malaysia&nbsp;and elsewhere.

AstraZeneca&nbsp;has pointed to regulator recommendations that the vaccine is safe and effective, though some countries have suspended its use due to rising unease or limited it to certain age groups.

Also read:<a href="Malaysia sets up compensation fund for Covid-19 vaccinations ">&nbsp;Malaysia sets up compensation fund for Covid-19 vaccinations&nbsp;</a>

Malaysia, which received its first 268,000&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;vaccine doses in April, said it would allow people to choose to receive the jab on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The decision was made after around 8,000 people cancelled online vaccination registrations following the government's announcement that the shot would be part of the nationwide rollout, Science Minister Khairy Jamaludin told reporters.

Data also showed increased vaccine hesitancy with some people not showing up to appointments after&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;was included, he said.

"The number of cancellations was rising, and this resulted in (authorities) deciding that we should carve out&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;from the mainstream national immunisation programme," Khairy said.

Slots for 268,000 doses were filled in just three hours after bookings opened on Sunday, he said, adding the programme that starts on Wednesday would be expanded when more doses arrive.

Malaysia&nbsp;is due to receive 12.8 million doses of the&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;vaccine, with the next shipment of 1.1 million doses expected to arrive this month.

Khairy said authorities had also decided to limit the use of the vaccine developed by China's Sinovac Biotech to those aged 60 years or older.

Malaysia&nbsp;is facing a spike in coronavirus cases, with more than 415,000 total infections reported.

Separately, Health Minister Adham Baba noted a marked increase in COVID-19 patients suffering acute symptoms, possibly due to new strains.

Malaysia&nbsp;on Sunday reported its first case of a variant first identified in India, which experts say may have mutations that would make it more transmissible, cause more severe disease or evade vaccine immunity.

The government has also detected 48 cases of the South African variant and eight of the British variant as of May 1, Adham said.

Malaysia will begin a parallel COVID-19 innoculation programme this week for people who chose to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine, after it was removed from an ongoing rollout due to public fears over its safety, a minister said on Monday.

Malaysia will begin a parallel COVID-19 innoculation programme this week for people who chose to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine, after it was removed from an ongoing rollout due to public fears over its safety, a minister said on Monday. Reports of possible links to very rare blood clots have dented confidence in the shot in Malaysia and elsewhere. AstraZeneca has pointed to regulator recommendations that the vaccine is safe and effective, though some countries have suspended its use due to rising unease or limited it to certain age groups. Also read: Malaysia sets up compensation fund for Covid-19 vaccinations Malaysia, which received its first 268,000 AstraZeneca vaccine doses in April, said it would allow people to choose to receive the jab on a first-come, first-serve basis. The decision was made after around 8,000 people cancelled online vaccination registrations following the government's announcement that the shot would be part of the nationwide rollout, Science Minister Khairy Jamaludin told reporters. Data also showed increased vaccine hesitancy with some people not showing up to appointments after AstraZeneca was included, he said. "The number of cancellations was rising, and this resulted in (authorities) deciding that we should carve out AstraZeneca from the mainstream national immunisation programme," Khairy said. Slots for 268,000 doses were filled in just three hours after bookings opened on Sunday, he said, adding the programme that starts on Wednesday would be expanded when more doses arrive. Malaysia is due to receive 12.8 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, with the next shipment of 1.1 million doses expected to arrive this month. Khairy said authorities had also decided to limit the use of the vaccine developed by China's Sinovac Biotech to those aged 60 years or older. Malaysia is facing a spike in coronavirus cases, with more than 415,000 total infections reported. Separately, Health Minister Adham Baba noted a marked increase in COVID-19 patients suffering acute symptoms, possibly due to new strains. Malaysia on Sunday reported its first case of a variant first identified in India, which experts say may have mutations that would make it more transmissible, cause more severe disease or evade vaccine immunity. The government has also detected 48 cases of the South African variant and eight of the British variant as of May 1, Adham said.

Malaysia makes AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine optional amid safety fears

In a move that risks reigniting a spat with London over scarce vaccine supplies, European Union lawyers on Wednesday demanded AstraZeneca immediately deliver COVID-19 vaccines from its factories in Britain.

EU demands access to AstraZeneca in UK in legal battle

The United States will began sharing its entire pipeline of AstraZeneca vaccines after a federal safety review. 60 million doses are expected to be available for export in the coming month.

US to share its stockpile of AstraZeneca jabs after safety review

The European Union has launched legal action against pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca over delivery shortfalls of its Coronavirus vaccine. The legal action was launched on behalf of the bloc's 27 member states.

EU launches legal action against AstraZeneca over delayed vaccines deliveries

The US is going to send up to 60 million doses of AstraZeneca Covid doses, officials announced on Monday as US President Joe Biden pledged to "be there" for India.

Critics have accused Washington of "hoarding" the British-developed vaccine, which is not authorized in the country and will likely not be required to vaccinate Americans.

In recent days, India has faced catastrophic new surge that has overwhelmed its health care system.

"U.S. to release 60 million Astra Zeneca doses to other countries as they become available," tweeted Andy Slavitt, senior advisor to the White House on Covid response.

An administration official told reporters the first 10 million doses could be available "in the coming weeks" after they pass a quality inspection by the Food and Drug Administration.

"Further, there's an estimated additional 50 million doses that are in various stages of production, and these could be completed in stages across May and June," she added.

White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said at a briefing that the recipient countries have not yet been decided and that the administration was still formulating its distribution plan.

But India appears to be a leading contender after Biden held a telephone call with his counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pledging US support to fight the Covid surge.

"Today, I spoke with Prime Minister @narendramodi and pledged America's full support to provide emergency assistance and resources in the fight against COVID-19. India was there for us, and we will be there for them," Biden tweeted.

Administration officials added Washington was looking at options to supply oxygen -- from direct shipments to generation systems -- as well as the antiviral drug Remdesivir, personal protective equipment, tests, and teams of experts.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US is going to send up to 60 million doses of AstraZeneca Covid doses, officials announced on Monday as US President Joe Biden pledged to "be there" for India.

The US is going to send up to 60 million doses of AstraZeneca Covid doses, officials announced on Monday as US President Joe Biden pledged to "be there" for India. Critics have accused Washington of "hoarding" the British-developed vaccine, which is not authorized in the country and will likely not be required to vaccinate Americans. In recent days, India has faced catastrophic new surge that has overwhelmed its health care system. "U.S. to release 60 million Astra Zeneca doses to other countries as they become available," tweeted Andy Slavitt, senior advisor to the White House on Covid response. An administration official told reporters the first 10 million doses could be available "in the coming weeks" after they pass a quality inspection by the Food and Drug Administration. "Further, there's an estimated additional 50 million doses that are in various stages of production, and these could be completed in stages across May and June," she added. White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said at a briefing that the recipient countries have not yet been decided and that the administration was still formulating its distribution plan. But India appears to be a leading contender after Biden held a telephone call with his counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pledging US support to fight the Covid surge. "Today, I spoke with Prime Minister @narendramodi and pledged America's full support to provide emergency assistance and resources in the fight against COVID-19. India was there for us, and we will be there for them," Biden tweeted. Administration officials added Washington was looking at options to supply oxygen -- from direct shipments to generation systems -- as well as the antiviral drug Remdesivir, personal protective equipment, tests, and teams of experts. (With inputs from agencies)

US to export up to 60 million AstraZeneca Covid vaccine doses

Canada's health department said on Sunday the 1.5 million doses of the Astrazeneca Plc COVID-19 vaccine imported from Emergent BioSolutions' Baltimore facility were safe and met quality specifications.

The US&nbsp;Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had stopped AstraZeneca from using the facility earlier this month and halted production of Johnson &amp; Johnson's vaccine at the plant as it began investigations into an error that led to millions of doses of J&amp;J's vaccine being ruined last month.

However, Health&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;said it reviewed test results of all vaccine lots that came into the country and found them to be safe.

J&amp;J doses produced at the Baltimore, Maryland, site have not entered the country, the regulator said, adding that vaccines from the company anticipated to be imported next week were not made at that facility.

Canada's health department said on Sunday the 1.5 million doses of the Astrazeneca Plc COVID-19 vaccine imported from Emergent BioSolutions' Baltimore facility were safe and met quality specifications.

Canada's health department said on Sunday the 1.5 million doses of the Astrazeneca Plc COVID-19 vaccine imported from Emergent BioSolutions' Baltimore facility were safe and met quality specifications. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had stopped AstraZeneca from using the facility earlier this month and halted production of Johnson & Johnson's vaccine at the plant as it began investigations into an error that led to millions of doses of J&J's vaccine being ruined last month. However, Health Canada said it reviewed test results of all vaccine lots that came into the country and found them to be safe. J&J doses produced at the Baltimore, Maryland, site have not entered the country, the regulator said, adding that vaccines from the company anticipated to be imported next week were not made at that facility.

Canada says AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines from suspended US plant are safe

Vaccine-maker AstraZeneca said on Monday that European Union's (EU) legal action against it over delivery of Covid vaccines was "without merit"

"We believe any litigation is without merit and we welcome this opportunity to resolve this dispute as soon as possible," the company said in a statement after the European Commission launched proceedings.

AstraZeneca said it had "fully complied with the Advance Purchase Agreement with the European Commission".

It added that in line with AstraZeneca's forecast, the company is set to deliver almost 50 million doses to European nations by the end of April.

"AstraZeneca regrets the European Commission's decision to take legal action over the supply of Covid-19 vaccines," the statement said.

"We look forward to working constructively with the EU Commission to vaccinate as many people as possible."

Alleged shortfall in vaccine deliveries has had EU and AstraZeneca at loggerheads.

The Euopean Commission has been responsible to procure vaccines for the entire bloc. It conveyed member states last week about its decision to take legal action against AstraZeneca and has pressed for their support.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s spokesman said he was unaware of the specifics around the legal action.&nbsp;

"What I will say is that AstraZeneca has been a hugely strong partner for the UK and in fact, globally, for the work they're doing," he told reporters.

"They've been a vital part of our vaccine rollout programme, and we continue to look forward to working with them."

(With inputs from agencies)

Vaccine-maker AstraZeneca said on Monday that European Union's (EU) legal action against it over delivery of Covid vaccines was "without merit" "We believe any litigation is without merit and we welcome this opportunity to resolve this dispute as soon as possible," the company said in a statement after the European Commission launched proceedings.

Vaccine-maker AstraZeneca said on Monday that European Union's (EU) legal action against it over delivery of Covid vaccines was "without merit" "We believe any litigation is without merit and we welcome this opportunity to resolve this dispute as soon as possible," the company said in a statement after the European Commission launched proceedings. AstraZeneca said it had "fully complied with the Advance Purchase Agreement with the European Commission". It added that in line with AstraZeneca's forecast, the company is set to deliver almost 50 million doses to European nations by the end of April. "AstraZeneca regrets the European Commission's decision to take legal action over the supply of Covid-19 vaccines," the statement said. "We look forward to working constructively with the EU Commission to vaccinate as many people as possible." Alleged shortfall in vaccine deliveries has had EU and AstraZeneca at loggerheads. The Euopean Commission has been responsible to procure vaccines for the entire bloc. It conveyed member states last week about its decision to take legal action against AstraZeneca and has pressed for their support. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s spokesman said he was unaware of the specifics around the legal action. "What I will say is that AstraZeneca has been a hugely strong partner for the UK and in fact, globally, for the work they're doing," he told reporters. "They've been a vital part of our vaccine rollout programme, and we continue to look forward to working with them." (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca says EU legal action over vaccines is 'without merit'

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday received his first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine at an Ottawa pharmacy, telling reporters "I'm very excited" as the needle entered his arm.

Afterwards he posed for television cameras and photographers with his thumbs up and then watched as his wife Sophie received her first shot. Sophie came down with a mild case of the coronavirus at the start of the pandemic last year.

(More details awaited)

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday received his first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine at an Ottawa pharmacy, telling reporters "I'm very excited" as the needle entered his arm.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday received his first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine at an Ottawa pharmacy, telling reporters "I'm very excited" as the needle entered his arm. Afterwards he posed for television cameras and photographers with his thumbs up and then watched as his wife Sophie received her first shot. Sophie came down with a mild case of the coronavirus at the start of the pandemic last year. (More details awaited)

Canadian PM Trudeau receives first dose of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine

The&nbsp;World&nbsp;Health&nbsp;Organization's vaccine advisors called on Thursday for more data on the incidence of blood clots in people who received the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine outside Europe.

The WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunisation updated their guidance on the use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab, rewriting the section on precautions in light of data from Europe on clotting.

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"WHO continues to support the conclusion that the benefits of these vaccines outweigh the risks," the UN agency stressed in a statement.

On April 7, SAGE said a link between AstraZeneca's Covid-19 jabs and blood clots was plausible but unconfirmed, underlining that reported occurrences were "very rare".

In light of evidence emerging from ongoing vaccination programmes, they have updated their recommendations on the AstraZeneca jab, which is being deployed in 157 territories.

SAGE said most clotting cases were reported in Britain and the European Union, with very few cases noted in other countries.

They said it was unknown whether there was a risk of clotting from the second dose of the vaccine, while recommending that those who suffered blood clots after their first injection should not be given the second dose of the two-shot vaccine.

"A very rare syndrome of blood clotting combined with low platelet counts, described as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), has been reported around four to 20 days following vaccination," the new guidance says.

"A causal relationship between the vaccine and TTS is considered plausible although the biological mechanism for this syndrome is still being investigated.

"Most of these cases were reported from the UK and the EU. There is considerable geographic variation with regards to the reported incidence, with very few cases reported from non-European countries, despite extensive use of the vaccine.

"An estimation of the risk outside Europe needs further data collection and analysis."

The vaccine currently forms the backbone of the Covax scheme, which ensures that poorer countries can access doses, with donors covering the cost.

Covax has so far shipped more than 40.5 million Covid-19 vaccine doses to 118 participating territories.

The SAGE guidance said that data from Britain, dated March 31, suggested the risk of TTS was approximately one case per 250,000 vaccinated adults, while the rate in the EU was estimated at one in 100,000.

It said current data from Europe suggested that the risk might be higher in younger adults compared with older adults.

"No specific risk factors have yet been identified," it said.

Whilst stressing that the benefit of vaccination against Covid-19 "far outweighs" the risks, the assessment may differ between countries.

"Countries should consider their epidemiological situation, individual and population-level risks, availability of other vaccines, and alternate options for risk mitigation," the guidance said.

"The benefit-risk ratio is greatest in older age groups.

"It is currently unknown whether there is a risk of TTS following the second dose."

The safety surveillance and monitoring section was also rewritten,recommending research into serious adverse events including cerebral venous sinus thrombosis and thrombotic events with thrombocytopenia.

It also called for research into the incidence of TTS by region, age and sex.

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization's vaccine advisors called on Thursday for more data on the incidence of blood clots in people who received the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine outside Europe.

The World Health Organization's vaccine advisors called on Thursday for more data on the incidence of blood clots in people who received the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine outside Europe. The WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunisation updated their guidance on the use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab, rewriting the section on precautions in light of data from Europe on clotting. "WHO continues to support the conclusion that the benefits of these vaccines outweigh the risks," the UN agency stressed in a statement. On April 7, SAGE said a link between AstraZeneca's Covid-19 jabs and blood clots was plausible but unconfirmed, underlining that reported occurrences were "very rare". In light of evidence emerging from ongoing vaccination programmes, they have updated their recommendations on the AstraZeneca jab, which is being deployed in 157 territories. SAGE said most clotting cases were reported in Britain and the European Union, with very few cases noted in other countries. They said it was unknown whether there was a risk of clotting from the second dose of the vaccine, while recommending that those who suffered blood clots after their first injection should not be given the second dose of the two-shot vaccine. "A very rare syndrome of blood clotting combined with low platelet counts, described as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), has been reported around four to 20 days following vaccination," the new guidance says. "A causal relationship between the vaccine and TTS is considered plausible although the biological mechanism for this syndrome is still being investigated. "Most of these cases were reported from the UK and the EU. There is considerable geographic variation with regards to the reported incidence, with very few cases reported from non-European countries, despite extensive use of the vaccine. "An estimation of the risk outside Europe needs further data collection and analysis." The vaccine currently forms the backbone of the Covax scheme, which ensures that poorer countries can access doses, with donors covering the cost. Covax has so far shipped more than 40.5 million Covid-19 vaccine doses to 118 participating territories. The SAGE guidance said that data from Britain, dated March 31, suggested the risk of TTS was approximately one case per 250,000 vaccinated adults, while the rate in the EU was estimated at one in 100,000. It said current data from Europe suggested that the risk might be higher in younger adults compared with older adults. "No specific risk factors have yet been identified," it said. Whilst stressing that the benefit of vaccination against Covid-19 "far outweighs" the risks, the assessment may differ between countries. "Countries should consider their epidemiological situation, individual and population-level risks, availability of other vaccines, and alternate options for risk mitigation," the guidance said. "The benefit-risk ratio is greatest in older age groups. "It is currently unknown whether there is a risk of TTS following the second dose." The safety surveillance and monitoring section was also rewritten,recommending research into serious adverse events including cerebral venous sinus thrombosis and thrombotic events with thrombocytopenia. It also called for research into the incidence of TTS by region, age and sex. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: WHO experts want more AstraZeneca clot data from outside Europe

According to the sources, the European Commission is working on legal proceedings against AstraZeneca after the drug maker cut COVID-19 vaccine deliveries. EU plans to split ties with the drug maker after repeatedly cut supplies to the block.

EU to file lawsuit against AstraZeneca over vaccine shortfall

Germany&nbsp;would support legal action against&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;for under-delivering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19</a> vaccine doses to the EU, but the&nbsp;priority&nbsp;now&nbsp;should be on securing the jabs, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Friday.

The European Commission is considering a&nbsp;lawsuit&nbsp;against the Swedish-British pharmaceutical giant for so far delivering just 31 million of the 120 million doses it had promised, according to EU diplomats.

Asked if he thought the&nbsp;lawsuit&nbsp;was a good idea, Spahn said: "If (the commission) decides to take legal action, then yes... but it's much more important to me that I get this vaccine."

Germany&nbsp;wants to "cooperate with&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;to get as many deliveries as possible as quickly as possible", he said, adding that legal issues are "not yet a&nbsp;priority&nbsp;in this phase of the pandemic".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="Germany halts use of AstraZeneca vaccine for elderly amid reports of rare disorder">Germany halts use of AstraZeneca vaccine for elderly amid reports of rare disorder</a>

EU diplomats said Thursday no final decision has been taken on legal action but the EU executive has informed member state envoys and wants them to confirm whether they would back a&nbsp;lawsuit.

"As you know,&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;is not delivering the number of doses which have been agreed upon in the contract... This is one of the reasons why we keep our options open together with member states to take any further steps," commission spokesman Stefan De Keersmaecker said on Thursday.

One diplomat told AFP that "not all member states are in agreement" on taking the company to court, stressing that their aim was simply to have&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;deliver the doses it had promised in its contract.

Public confidence in the&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;jab has taken a blow after the European Medicines Agency, the bloc's regulator, said it was likely linked to a very rare form of blood clot affecting the brain.&nbsp;

The EMA and the commission have not changed their stance on a general use of&nbsp;AstraZeneca, saying its benefits outweigh the risks, but several EU countries have restricted its use to older citizens.

The EU, however, is&nbsp;now&nbsp;increasingly relying on the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine for its rollout, which has been accelerating since the end of March.

Germany would support legal action against AstraZeneca for under-delivering Covid-19 vaccine doses to the EU, but the priority now should be on securing the jabs, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Friday.

Germany would support legal action against AstraZeneca for under-delivering Covid-19 vaccine doses to the EU, but the priority now should be on securing the jabs, Health Minister Jens Spahn said Friday. The European Commission is considering a lawsuit against the Swedish-British pharmaceutical giant for so far delivering just 31 million of the 120 million doses it had promised, according to EU diplomats. Asked if he thought the lawsuit was a good idea, Spahn said: "If (the commission) decides to take legal action, then yes... but it's much more important to me that I get this vaccine." Germany wants to "cooperate with AstraZeneca to get as many deliveries as possible as quickly as possible", he said, adding that legal issues are "not yet a priority in this phase of the pandemic". Also Read | Germany halts use of AstraZeneca vaccine for elderly amid reports of rare disorder EU diplomats said Thursday no final decision has been taken on legal action but the EU executive has informed member state envoys and wants them to confirm whether they would back a lawsuit. "As you know, AstraZeneca is not delivering the number of doses which have been agreed upon in the contract... This is one of the reasons why we keep our options open together with member states to take any further steps," commission spokesman Stefan De Keersmaecker said on Thursday. One diplomat told AFP that "not all member states are in agreement" on taking the company to court, stressing that their aim was simply to have AstraZeneca deliver the doses it had promised in its contract. Public confidence in the AstraZeneca jab has taken a blow after the European Medicines Agency, the bloc's regulator, said it was likely linked to a very rare form of blood clot affecting the brain. The EMA and the commission have not changed their stance on a general use of AstraZeneca, saying its benefits outweigh the risks, but several EU countries have restricted its use to older citizens. The EU, however, is now increasingly relying on the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine for its rollout, which has been accelerating since the end of March.

Germany says AstraZeneca lawsuit 'not priority' for now

EU plans to snap ties and to sue AstraZeneca over vaccine shortfall

A total of 168 people have suffered rare blood clots after taking the AstraZeneca coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> in Britain, and 32 have died, the UK's medicines regulator said Thursday.

The figures for clots or "thromboembolic events" run up to April 14, by when 21.2 million people had received first doses of the vaccine, according to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

It represents a rise of 10 deaths compared to the period up to April 5, and an additional 68 cases.

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"On the basis of this ongoing review, the advice remains that the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks in the majority of people," the MHRA said.

Acting on the regulator's advice, the UK government this month agreed to offer most people under 30 an alternative to the AstraZeneca coronavirus jab if possible, due to concerns over blood clots.

Of the 168 cases in the latest summary, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST or blood clots in the brain) was reported in 77 cases, with an average age of 47.

A further 91 cases had other "major thromboembolic events" along with thrombocytopenia -- low platelet counts -- with an average age of 55.

Overall, 93 women and 75 men suffered clots after receiving the vaccine.

"I would expect the true number of cases per million doses of vaccine to become clear fairly soon as these reports stabilise, but it is already clear that it is going to remain a very rare event," University of Bristol paediatrics professor Adam Finn said.

Britain has Europe's highest death toll from the Covid-19 pandemic but since the mass vaccination drive began with the AstraZeneca jab in December, rates of infection, hospitalisation and death have plummeted.

The coronavirus was no longer the leading cause of death in March, according to separate data released by the Office for National Statistics.

It said that Covid-19 was the third leading cause of death in England last month, dropping from the top spot for the first time since October.

A total of 168 people have suffered rare blood clots after taking the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine in Britain, and 32 have died, the UK's medicines regulator said Thursday.

A total of 168 people have suffered rare blood clots after taking the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine in Britain, and 32 have died, the UK's medicines regulator said Thursday. The figures for clots or "thromboembolic events" run up to April 14, by when 21.2 million people had received first doses of the vaccine, according to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). It represents a rise of 10 deaths compared to the period up to April 5, and an additional 68 cases. Also read | Is steam inhalation helpful in fighting COVID? All you need to know "On the basis of this ongoing review, the advice remains that the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks in the majority of people," the MHRA said. Acting on the regulator's advice, the UK government this month agreed to offer most people under 30 an alternative to the AstraZeneca coronavirus jab if possible, due to concerns over blood clots. Of the 168 cases in the latest summary, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST or blood clots in the brain) was reported in 77 cases, with an average age of 47. A further 91 cases had other "major thromboembolic events" along with thrombocytopenia -- low platelet counts -- with an average age of 55. Overall, 93 women and 75 men suffered clots after receiving the vaccine. "I would expect the true number of cases per million doses of vaccine to become clear fairly soon as these reports stabilise, but it is already clear that it is going to remain a very rare event," University of Bristol paediatrics professor Adam Finn said. Britain has Europe's highest death toll from the Covid-19 pandemic but since the mass vaccination drive began with the AstraZeneca jab in December, rates of infection, hospitalisation and death have plummeted. The coronavirus was no longer the leading cause of death in March, according to separate data released by the Office for National Statistics. It said that Covid-19 was the third leading cause of death in England last month, dropping from the top spot for the first time since October.

UK reports 32 deaths from clots after AstraZeneca jabs

Norwegian health ministry said on Thursday that the country will be sending 216,000 Covid vaccine doses to Sweden and Iceland at their request. Norway has suspended the use of AstraZeneca vaccine until further notice.&nbsp;

"I'm happy that the vaccines we have in stock can be put to use even if the AstraZeneca vaccine has been paused in Norway," Health Minister Bent Hoie said in a statement.

The doses are currently stored in Norwegian fridges and have to be used before their expiry dates in June and July.

Sweden will receive 200,000 shots and Iceland 16,000 under the expectation they will return the favour at some point.

"If we do resume the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, we will get the doses back as soon as we ask," Hoie said. 
Like neighbouring Denmark, Norway suspended the use of the AstraZeneca jab on March 11 in order to examine rare but potentially severe side effects, including blood clots.

Five cases of severe thrombosis, including three fatal, were recorded in Norway. These individuals had received AstraZeneca jabs. The deaths were registered among relatively young people who were otherwise in good condition. One other person died of a brain haemorrhage.

On April 15, Norway's government ignored a recommendation from the Institute of Public Health to drop the AstraZeneca jab for good, saying it wanted more time to decide.

Oslo has therefore set up a committee of Norwegian and international experts tasked with studying all of the risks linked to the AstraZeneca and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines, which is also suspected of causing blood clots. Both are both based on adenovirus vector technology.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Norwegian health ministry said on Thursday that the country will be sending 216,000 Covid vaccine doses to Sweden and Iceland at their request. Norway has suspended the use of AstraZeneca vaccine until further notice.

Norwegian health ministry said on Thursday that the country will be sending 216,000 Covid vaccine doses to Sweden and Iceland at their request. Norway has suspended the use of AstraZeneca vaccine until further notice. "I'm happy that the vaccines we have in stock can be put to use even if the AstraZeneca vaccine has been paused in Norway," Health Minister Bent Hoie said in a statement. The doses are currently stored in Norwegian fridges and have to be used before their expiry dates in June and July. Sweden will receive 200,000 shots and Iceland 16,000 under the expectation they will return the favour at some point. "If we do resume the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, we will get the doses back as soon as we ask," Hoie said. Like neighbouring Denmark, Norway suspended the use of the AstraZeneca jab on March 11 in order to examine rare but potentially severe side effects, including blood clots. Five cases of severe thrombosis, including three fatal, were recorded in Norway. These individuals had received AstraZeneca jabs. The deaths were registered among relatively young people who were otherwise in good condition. One other person died of a brain haemorrhage. On April 15, Norway's government ignored a recommendation from the Institute of Public Health to drop the AstraZeneca jab for good, saying it wanted more time to decide. Oslo has therefore set up a committee of Norwegian and international experts tasked with studying all of the risks linked to the AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, which is also suspected of causing blood clots. Both are both based on adenovirus vector technology. (With inputs from agencies)

Norway to send 216,000 AstraZeneca Covid vaccine doses to Iceland and Sweden

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