In the United States, more than 204 million people are fully vaccinated, but that’s still only 62 per cent&nbsp;of the population, much lower than in most other wealthy countries.

At the county level, vaccination rates range from about 83&nbsp;per cent in places like Montgomery County, Maryland, a populous area just outside Washington, D.C., to around 15&nbsp;per cent in rural places like McPherson County in northern South Dakota.

As the omicron variant surges, and experts say that vaccinations strongly protect against severe illness, US public health officials are closely examining ways to reach the least-vaccinated areas. But the roadblocks are not the same everywhere. Some clearly have to do with politics: Republican-leaning areas have generally been vaccine laggards. But pockets of the country can have their own quirks unrelated to partisanship.

Here is a look at the challenges faced by three counties where, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, vaccination rates are among the lowest in the nation. (State figures for those counties may vary from the CDC data because of differences in methodology, reporting lags and other factors.)

LaGrange County, Indiana

Resistance to vaccines is not new in LaGrange County, a rural area along Indiana’s border with Michigan. Just 22&nbsp;per cent of residents are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, and, according to Dr. Tony Pechin, the county health officer, only 15&nbsp;per cent of children in the county are up-to-date on standard vaccines by the age of 2.

Pechin said that he had encountered the usual conspiracy theories about vaccines, and that even some longtime patients would not heed his advice to get the shots.

But the most important factor, he said, is that about half the county’s 40,000 residents are Amish, a group that overwhelmingly rejects the vaccines. Among non-Amish residents, he said, the vaccination rate is 45 per cent-48 per cent.

Pechin said that a pharmacy frequented by Amish residents was among the first in LaGrange County to receive doses but had vaccinated just eight people in six months.

The state health commissioner sent a delegation to meet with Amish leaders in the spring, and the CDC sent another over the summer.

“When they were done,” Pechin said of the envoys, “they called me and just said, ‘Good luck, Tony.’ ”

Cameron Parish, Louisiana

When Hurricane Laura made landfall near Cameron Parish in August 2020, many residents left damaged homes behind and took refuge inland — and have yet to return.

According to the CDC, the vaccination rate is just 17 per cent. But Louisiana health officials say that those figures do not take account of the population shift.

“Although the numbers look awful, they’re not as bad as they appear, because of an outflux of people due to the natural disasters,” said Dr. Lacey Cavanaugh, a regional health officer for the Louisiana Department of Health.

But if the statistics were calculated to reflect the current populations of Cameron Parish and others ravaged by recent storms, she said, they would probably still show vaccination rates below national averages. Laura destroyed much of the parish’s limited health infrastructure, so for months, health officials administered vaccines in a tent in a hospital parking lot. And for residents consumed by the work of repairing homes and businesses, getting vaccinated fell low on the priority list.

State health officials have worked to bring vaccines directly to disaster recovery events, and advised residents that getting sick with COVID-19 could make the road back even harder.

“Once you’re protected” from the virus, Cavanaugh said, “that’s one less thing for you to worry about.”

Winston County, Alabama

A rural county with a history of going its own way — it refused to join Alabama in seceding from the Union during the Civil War — faces many of the challenges that have hampered the state’s vaccine uptake.

Vaccine misinformation is still spreading on social media, said Dr. Karen Landers, a regional officer with the state’s Public Health Department, despite months of efforts with local leaders, faith-based organizations and pharmacies. The county’s vaccination rate has stalled at around 21 per cent, according to the CDC.

Persuading young people that they are vulnerable to the disease and need a vaccine can be a particularly acute problem, Landers said. But she said she remained determined: “We know that not everyone will listen to us, but that does not alleviate our responsibility.”

In the United States, more than 204 million people are fully vaccinated, but that’s still only 62 per cent of the population, much lower than in most other wealthy countries.

In the United States, more than 204 million people are fully vaccinated, but that’s still only 62 per cent of the population, much lower than in most other wealthy countries. At the county level, vaccination rates range from about 83 per cent in places like Montgomery County, Maryland, a populous area just outside Washington, D.C., to around 15 per cent in rural places like McPherson County in northern South Dakota. As the omicron variant surges, and experts say that vaccinations strongly protect against severe illness, US public health officials are closely examining ways to reach the least-vaccinated areas. But the roadblocks are not the same everywhere. Some clearly have to do with politics: Republican-leaning areas have generally been vaccine laggards. But pockets of the country can have their own quirks unrelated to partisanship. Here is a look at the challenges faced by three counties where, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, vaccination rates are among the lowest in the nation. (State figures for those counties may vary from the CDC data because of differences in methodology, reporting lags and other factors.) LaGrange County, Indiana Resistance to vaccines is not new in LaGrange County, a rural area along Indiana’s border with Michigan. Just 22 per cent of residents are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, and, according to Dr. Tony Pechin, the county health officer, only 15 per cent of children in the county are up-to-date on standard vaccines by the age of 2. Pechin said that he had encountered the usual conspiracy theories about vaccines, and that even some longtime patients would not heed his advice to get the shots. But the most important factor, he said, is that about half the county’s 40,000 residents are Amish, a group that overwhelmingly rejects the vaccines. Among non-Amish residents, he said, the vaccination rate is 45 per cent-48 per cent. Pechin said that a pharmacy frequented by Amish residents was among the first in LaGrange County to receive doses but had vaccinated just eight people in six months. The state health commissioner sent a delegation to meet with Amish leaders in the spring, and the CDC sent another over the summer. “When they were done,” Pechin said of the envoys, “they called me and just said, ‘Good luck, Tony.’ ” Cameron Parish, Louisiana When Hurricane Laura made landfall near Cameron Parish in August 2020, many residents left damaged homes behind and took refuge inland — and have yet to return. According to the CDC, the vaccination rate is just 17 per cent. But Louisiana health officials say that those figures do not take account of the population shift. “Although the numbers look awful, they’re not as bad as they appear, because of an outflux of people due to the natural disasters,” said Dr. Lacey Cavanaugh, a regional health officer for the Louisiana Department of Health. But if the statistics were calculated to reflect the current populations of Cameron Parish and others ravaged by recent storms, she said, they would probably still show vaccination rates below national averages. Laura destroyed much of the parish’s limited health infrastructure, so for months, health officials administered vaccines in a tent in a hospital parking lot. And for residents consumed by the work of repairing homes and businesses, getting vaccinated fell low on the priority list. State health officials have worked to bring vaccines directly to disaster recovery events, and advised residents that getting sick with COVID-19 could make the road back even harder. “Once you’re protected” from the virus, Cavanaugh said, “that’s one less thing for you to worry about.” Winston County, Alabama A rural county with a history of going its own way — it refused to join Alabama in seceding from the Union during the Civil War — faces many of the challenges that have hampered the state’s vaccine uptake. Vaccine misinformation is still spreading on social media, said Dr. Karen Landers, a regional officer with the state’s Public Health Department, despite months of efforts with local leaders, faith-based organizations and pharmacies. The county’s vaccination rate has stalled at around 21 per cent, according to the CDC. Persuading young people that they are vulnerable to the disease and need a vaccine can be a particularly acute problem, Landers said. But she said she remained determined: “We know that not everyone will listen to us, but that does not alleviate our responsibility.”

Where vaccination rates are low in the US, reasons vary

The Republican governor of Alabama has said it is time the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine"> unvaccinated</a> people are held responsible for the increasing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid infections</a>.

Alleging unvaccinated people of not using their "common sense", Kay Ivey said "it’s time to start blaming the unvaccinated folks, not the vaccinated folks. It’s the unvaccinated folks that are letting us down."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-is-letting-people-get-infected-by-covid-aide-claims-400358">UK government is letting people get infected by Covid, aide claims</a>

The statement came after the US state of Alabama saw an increase in coronavirus infections. Ivey said the rise in cases is mainly because of the reluctance of people towards getting vaccinated against coronavirus.

To back up her statement, she also claimed that the majority of the new hospitalisations in Covid cases and the coronavirus-related deaths are of people who have not yet been vaccinated against the virus.

She blamed the unvaccinated people’s lifestyle and their poor choice for the spread of the virus in the state specifically. "These folks are choosing a horrible lifestyle of self-inflicted pain," she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-study-suggests-dogs-can-be-used-to-detect-covid-19-400356" hreflang="en">New study suggests dogs can be used to detect COVID-19</a>

Her statement also came after a study claimed that more than nine out of ten Covid deaths in the US have been of unvaccinated people.

This has also come at a time when the US President, Joe Biden, and his government are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. As of now, nearly 56.2 per cent of Americans have received the first dose, as per the data of US' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Republican governor of Alabama has said it is time the unvaccinated people are held responsible for the increasing Covid infections. Alleging unvaccinated people of not using their "common sense", Kay Ivey said "it’s time to start blaming the unvaccinated folks, not the vaccinated folks.

The Republican governor of Alabama has said it is time the unvaccinated people are held responsible for the increasing Covid infections. Alleging unvaccinated people of not using their "common sense", Kay Ivey said "it’s time to start blaming the unvaccinated folks, not the vaccinated folks. It’s the unvaccinated folks that are letting us down." Also read | UK government is letting people get infected by Covid, aide claims The statement came after the US state of Alabama saw an increase in coronavirus infections. Ivey said the rise in cases is mainly because of the reluctance of people towards getting vaccinated against coronavirus. To back up her statement, she also claimed that the majority of the new hospitalisations in Covid cases and the coronavirus-related deaths are of people who have not yet been vaccinated against the virus. She blamed the unvaccinated people’s lifestyle and their poor choice for the spread of the virus in the state specifically. "These folks are choosing a horrible lifestyle of self-inflicted pain," she said. Also read | New study suggests dogs can be used to detect COVID-19 Her statement also came after a study claimed that more than nine out of ten Covid deaths in the US have been of unvaccinated people. This has also come at a time when the US President, Joe Biden, and his government are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. As of now, nearly 56.2 per cent of Americans have received the first dose, as per the data of US' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Use your common sense: Alabama governor says time to blame unvaccinated people

Setting a record, the US has now successfully <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a> over one hundred million people against the deadly coronavirus, White House pandemic response coordinator Jeff Zients reported.

"That's 100 million Americans with a sense of relief and peace of mind knowing that after a long and hard year they're protected from the virus, knowing their decision to get vaccinated protects not just themselves, but also protects their families, their friends and their communities," Zients said.

ALso read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccination-for-all-adults-to-begin-in-france-from-june-15-381723" hreflang="en">Vaccination for all adults to begin in France from June 15</a>

Till now, the country has distributed 237 million doses and 55 per cent of adults have been administered at least one dose of the vaccines.

In all, over 100 million US locals have been fully vaccinated, i.e. these people have received both doses of the vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-stands-with-india-first-of-100-million-covid-aid-from-us-arrives-in-india-381605" hreflang="en">US stands with India: First of $100 million Covid aid from US arrives in India&nbsp;</a>

Following the growth of the vaccination drive in the country, the authorities are now encouraging people who faced issues and barriers in the starting months to come and get vaccinated. Various health groups are helping such people on voluntarily people.

Health groups are also increasingly reaching out to people who still have doubts about the efficacy of the vaccines. According to data from the Kaiser Family Foundation, Republicans remain more likely to say "definitely not" to a vaccine, with 29 percent saying they will never be immunised, against five percent of Democrats and nine percent of independents.

A day ago, former US President Donald Trump had labelled himself as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/father-of-vaccine-immigration-and-2024-presidential-run-donald-trump-attacks-biden-381492">‘father of vaccine’</a> and claimed it is only because of him that the US was able to produce the coronavirus vaccines.

"I guess in a certain way, I'm the father of the vaccine because I was the one that pushed it. You know, to get it done in less than nine months was a miracle. Fauci said it would take three to five years. He thought it was something that just wouldn't be that effective because it would take so long to get. I pushed the FDA like they have never been pushed before," Trump boasted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Setting a record, the US has now successfully vaccinated over one hundred million people against the deadly coronavirus, White House pandemic response coordinator Jeff Zients reported.

Setting a record, the US has now successfully vaccinated over one hundred million people against the deadly coronavirus, White House pandemic response coordinator Jeff Zients reported. "That's 100 million Americans with a sense of relief and peace of mind knowing that after a long and hard year they're protected from the virus, knowing their decision to get vaccinated protects not just themselves, but also protects their families, their friends and their communities," Zients said. ALso read | Vaccination for all adults to begin in France from June 15 Till now, the country has distributed 237 million doses and 55 per cent of adults have been administered at least one dose of the vaccines. In all, over 100 million US locals have been fully vaccinated, i.e. these people have received both doses of the vaccine. Also read | US stands with India: First of $100 million Covid aid from US arrives in India Following the growth of the vaccination drive in the country, the authorities are now encouraging people who faced issues and barriers in the starting months to come and get vaccinated. Various health groups are helping such people on voluntarily people. Health groups are also increasingly reaching out to people who still have doubts about the efficacy of the vaccines. According to data from the Kaiser Family Foundation, Republicans remain more likely to say "definitely not" to a vaccine, with 29 percent saying they will never be immunised, against five percent of Democrats and nine percent of independents. A day ago, former US President Donald Trump had labelled himself as the ‘father of vaccine’ and claimed it is only because of him that the US was able to produce the coronavirus vaccines. "I guess in a certain way, I'm the father of the vaccine because I was the one that pushed it. You know, to get it done in less than nine months was a miracle. Fauci said it would take three to five years. He thought it was something that just wouldn't be that effective because it would take so long to get. I pushed the FDA like they have never been pushed before," Trump boasted. (With inputs from agencies)

US: 100 million Americans fully vaccinated against coronavirus

Face masks can reduce the risk of spreading large COVID-19 droplets by up to 99.9 per cent while speaking or coughing, a new study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science claims.

The study was part of a lab experiment done using mechanical mannequins and human subjects.&nbsp;

A woman standing two metres (yards) from a coughing man without a mask will be exposed to 10,000 times more such droplets than if he were wearing one, even if he is only 50 centimetres away, they reported in the journal Royal Society Open Science.

"There is no more doubt whatsoever that face masks can dramatically reduce the dispersion of potentially virus-laden droplets," senior author Ignazio Maria Viola, an expert in applied fluid dynamics at the University of Edinburgh's School of Engineering, told AFP.

Large respiratory droplets -- which act like projectiles before being pulled toward the ground by gravity -- are thought to be the main driver of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, he noted.

Smaller ones, sometimes called aerosol droplets, can remain suspended in the air for longer periods.

"We continuously exhale a whole range of droplets, from micro-scale to millimetre-scale," Maria Viola said by phone.

"Some of the droplets will drop faster than others" depending on temperature, humidity and especially airspeed, he said.

The study focused on particles larger than 170 microns in diameter -- roughly two to four times the width of a human hair.

Aerosol particles, which tend to follow currents in the air, are generally described as smaller than 20 or 30 microns.

Intermediate-size droplets can behave, either way, the study found.

Universal mask-wearing

"If you wear a mask, you are mitigating the virus transmission by an order of magnitude -- 10 times less," Maria Viola said.

"In our study, for the larger droplets we measure, we're talking about 99.9 percent less."

According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) in Seattle, Washington, 55,000 lives could be saved in the United States over the next four months if a policy of universal mask use were adopted.

The Institute's modellers -- who accurately predicted in mid-July that Covid-19 deaths in the US would top 224,000 by November 1 -- project 561,000 deaths on current trends by April 1, 2021.

Universal mask-wearing would reduce the global death toll by 400,000 over the same period, from 2.9 million to 2.5 million, they calculate. To date, the virus has claimed about 1.7 million lives.

Earlier this month, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated its Covid-19 guidance on masks to recommend they be worn indoors in the presence of other people if ventilation is inadequate.

The guidelines apply especially in areas of known or suspected community transmission.

Masks serve primarily to reduce the emissions of virus-laden droplets by people when they cough, sneeze, sing, talk or simply breathe, but they can also help prevent the inhalation of droplets by the person wearing them.

"Cloth masks not only effectively block most large droplets -- 20-30 microns and larger -- but they can also block the exhalation of fine droplets and particles, also often referred to as aerosols," according to the CDC.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

Face masks can reduce the risk of spreading large COVID-19 droplets by up to 99.9 per cent while speaking or coughing, a new study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science claims.

Face masks can reduce the risk of spreading large COVID-19 droplets by up to 99.9 per cent while speaking or coughing, a new study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science claims. The study was part of a lab experiment done using mechanical mannequins and human subjects. A woman standing two metres (yards) from a coughing man without a mask will be exposed to 10,000 times more such droplets than if he were wearing one, even if he is only 50 centimetres away, they reported in the journal Royal Society Open Science. "There is no more doubt whatsoever that face masks can dramatically reduce the dispersion of potentially virus-laden droplets," senior author Ignazio Maria Viola, an expert in applied fluid dynamics at the University of Edinburgh's School of Engineering, told AFP. Large respiratory droplets -- which act like projectiles before being pulled toward the ground by gravity -- are thought to be the main driver of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, he noted. Smaller ones, sometimes called aerosol droplets, can remain suspended in the air for longer periods. "We continuously exhale a whole range of droplets, from micro-scale to millimetre-scale," Maria Viola said by phone. "Some of the droplets will drop faster than others" depending on temperature, humidity and especially airspeed, he said. The study focused on particles larger than 170 microns in diameter -- roughly two to four times the width of a human hair. Aerosol particles, which tend to follow currents in the air, are generally described as smaller than 20 or 30 microns. Intermediate-size droplets can behave, either way, the study found. Universal mask-wearing "If you wear a mask, you are mitigating the virus transmission by an order of magnitude -- 10 times less," Maria Viola said. "In our study, for the larger droplets we measure, we're talking about 99.9 percent less." According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) in Seattle, Washington, 55,000 lives could be saved in the United States over the next four months if a policy of universal mask use were adopted. The Institute's modellers -- who accurately predicted in mid-July that Covid-19 deaths in the US would top 224,000 by November 1 -- project 561,000 deaths on current trends by April 1, 2021. Universal mask-wearing would reduce the global death toll by 400,000 over the same period, from 2.9 million to 2.5 million, they calculate. To date, the virus has claimed about 1.7 million lives. Earlier this month, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated its Covid-19 guidance on masks to recommend they be worn indoors in the presence of other people if ventilation is inadequate. The guidelines apply especially in areas of known or suspected community transmission. Masks serve primarily to reduce the emissions of virus-laden droplets by people when they cough, sneeze, sing, talk or simply breathe, but they can also help prevent the inhalation of droplets by the person wearing them. "Cloth masks not only effectively block most large droplets -- 20-30 microns and larger -- but they can also block the exhalation of fine droplets and particles, also often referred to as aerosols," according to the CDC. (With inputs from AFP)

Large droplets are the major driver of Covid transmission, masks can stop them: Study

President-elect Joe Biden received his first dose of Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine Monday, an event that was broadcast live as part of efforts to reassure the American public about its safety. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-milestone-us-administers-first-moderna-covid-19-vaccines-351449">Also read | Another milestone: US administers first Moderna COVID-19 vaccines</a> 
 
Biden was administered the vaccine at ChristianaCare Hospital in Newark, Delaware, saying "I'm ready" as he rolled up the sleeve on his left arm before getting his shot.

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And just like that, <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> has received the COVID-19 vaccine! 💪 <a href="https://t.co/4Zl72lzrN8">pic.twitter.com/4Zl72lzrN8</a>
— Young Americans for Biden &amp; Harris (@YAFBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/YAFBiden/status/1341117577788092421?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Biden told Americans "there's nothing to worry about" when they get vaccinated and that in the meantime they should keep wearing masks and "listen to the experts."

"Today, I received the COVID-19 vaccine. To the scientists and researchers who worked tirelessly to make this possible — thank you. We owe you an awful lot. And to the American people — know there is nothing to worry about. When the vaccine is available, I urge you to take it," he tweeted.

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Today, I received the COVID-19 vaccine. 
 
To the scientists and researchers who worked tirelessly to make this possible — thank you. We owe you an awful lot. 
 
And to the American people — know there is nothing to worry about. When the vaccine is available, I urge you to take it. <a href="https://t.co/QBtB620i2V">pic.twitter.com/QBtB620i2V</a>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1341185434408415233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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High-profile political figures in the US publicly joining the first wave of vaccinations aimed at stopping a pandemic that has killed almost 318,000 Americans.

Vice President Mike Pence and his wife got vaccinations last week but President Donald Trump has yet to take part in the drive.

The president-elect gave credit to the Trump administration for its efforts accelerating the development and distribution of coronavirus vaccines through Operation Warp Speed and said: "This is just the beginning."

"This is great hope," he said. "I'm doing this to demonstrate that people should be prepared when it's available to take the vaccine. There's nothing to worry about. I'm looking forward to the second shot."

(With inputs from agencies)

President-elect Joe Biden received his first dose of Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine Monday, an event that was broadcast live as part of efforts to reassure the American public about its safety.

President-elect Joe Biden received his first dose of Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine Monday, an event that was broadcast live as part of efforts to reassure the American public about its safety. Also read | Another milestone: US administers first Moderna COVID-19 vaccines Biden was administered the vaccine at ChristianaCare Hospital in Newark, Delaware, saying "I'm ready" as he rolled up the sleeve on his left arm before getting his shot. And just like that, @JoeBiden has received the COVID-19 vaccine! 💪 pic.twitter.com/4Zl72lzrN8 — Young Americans for Biden & Harris (@YAFBiden) December 21, 2020 × Biden told Americans "there's nothing to worry about" when they get vaccinated and that in the meantime they should keep wearing masks and "listen to the experts." "Today, I received the COVID-19 vaccine. To the scientists and researchers who worked tirelessly to make this possible — thank you. We owe you an awful lot. And to the American people — know there is nothing to worry about. When the vaccine is available, I urge you to take it," he tweeted. Today, I received the COVID-19 vaccine. To the scientists and researchers who worked tirelessly to make this possible — thank you. We owe you an awful lot. And to the American people — know there is nothing to worry about. When the vaccine is available, I urge you to take it. pic.twitter.com/QBtB620i2V — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) December 22, 2020 × High-profile political figures in the US publicly joining the first wave of vaccinations aimed at stopping a pandemic that has killed almost 318,000 Americans. Vice President Mike Pence and his wife got vaccinations last week but President Donald Trump has yet to take part in the drive. The president-elect gave credit to the Trump administration for its efforts accelerating the development and distribution of coronavirus vaccines through Operation Warp Speed and said: "This is just the beginning." "This is great hope," he said. "I'm doing this to demonstrate that people should be prepared when it's available to take the vaccine. There's nothing to worry about. I'm looking forward to the second shot." (With inputs from agencies)

‘Take it, there is nothing to worry about': Biden receives vaccine live on television

&nbsp;

In another historic moment, the US administered first&nbsp;Moderna Inc's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a> to a&nbsp;nurse at a hospital in Connecticut on Monday.

Mandy Delgado works as a nurse for the Hartford Healthcare hospital. She was administered a shot of the Moderna vaccine&nbsp;around 11:40 am (1640 GMT), according to a live feed of the event.

Also&nbsp;watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-nurse-passes-out-after-getting-pfizer-biontechs-covid-19-vaccine-350712">US nurse passes out after getting Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine</a>

"I am excited. I feel privileged," she said after getting the shot of the vaccine against the novel coronavirus. Her enthusiasm and courage were met with a round of applause by the people around her.

The shot has been administered a few days after the Moderna vaccine became the second in the US to receive&nbsp;emergency use authorization (EUA) from the US&nbsp;Food and Drug Administration (FDA), with the first one being&nbsp;Pfizer-Biotech's vaccine.

The Moderna vaccine can be stored at -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit), much lower than Pfizer's vaccine which must be stored at -70 degrees Celsius (-94 degrees Fahrenheit), making it easier to distribute.

Have a look|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-truth-about-coronavirus-vaccines-8-myths-busted-351294">The truth about coronavirus vaccines - 8 myths busted!</a>

Local authorities are hoping these vaccines will be able to contain the widespread of the novel coronavirus, which has affected the US in the worst way.

"With the availability of two vaccines now for the prevention of COVID-19, the FDA has taken another crucial step in the fight against this global pandemic that is causing vast numbers of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States each day,"&nbsp;FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D, said in a statement.

In another historic moment, the US administered first Moderna Inc's coronavirus vaccine to a nurse at a hospital in Connecticut on Monday. Mandy Delgado works as a nurse for the Hartford Healthcare hospital.

In another historic moment, the US administered first Moderna Inc's coronavirus vaccine to a nurse at a hospital in Connecticut on Monday. Mandy Delgado works as a nurse for the Hartford Healthcare hospital. She was administered a shot of the Moderna vaccine around 11:40 am (1640 GMT), according to a live feed of the event. Also watch: US nurse passes out after getting Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine "I am excited. I feel privileged," she said after getting the shot of the vaccine against the novel coronavirus. Her enthusiasm and courage were met with a round of applause by the people around her. The shot has been administered a few days after the Moderna vaccine became the second in the US to receive emergency use authorization (EUA) from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), with the first one being Pfizer-Biotech's vaccine. The Moderna vaccine can be stored at -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit), much lower than Pfizer's vaccine which must be stored at -70 degrees Celsius (-94 degrees Fahrenheit), making it easier to distribute. Have a look| The truth about coronavirus vaccines - 8 myths busted! Local authorities are hoping these vaccines will be able to contain the widespread of the novel coronavirus, which has affected the US in the worst way. "With the availability of two vaccines now for the prevention of COVID-19, the FDA has taken another crucial step in the fight against this global pandemic that is causing vast numbers of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States each day," FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D, said in a statement.

Another milestone: US administers first Moderna COVID-19 vaccines

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-states-asked-to-be-ready-to-distribute-coronavirus-vaccine-by-november-1-report-324847">US states asked to be ready to distribute coronavirus vaccine by November 1: Report</a>

<img alt="Coronavirus vaccine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a223ae6-f3d1-464a-a97e-8716b4fa48ce" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/vaccine2.jpg" />

US President Donald Trump had promised to bring in the vaccine before the US elections which takes place on November 3.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-international-criminal-court-prosecutor-fatou-bensouda-over-investigation-of-us-soldiers-in-alleged-war-crimes-in-afghanistan-324849">US sanctions International Criminal Court prosecutor Fatou Bensouda</a>

<img alt="ICC santions" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e207e529-ae43-485e-a113-c4f40c92e71e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pompeo2.jpg" />

US sanctions were also initiated against Phakiso Mochochoko, director of the ICC's Jurisdiction, Complementary and Cooperation Division.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-tit-for-tat-move-us-imposes-fresh-restrictions-on-chinese-diplomats-324854">In tit-for-tat move, US imposes fresh restrictions on Chinese diplomats</a>

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US President Donald Trump has taken a tough stance against China in the run-up to US Presidential Elections 2020 slated to be held in November.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-Dwayne-Johnson-reveals-he-and-family-have-recovered-from-COVID-19-urges-fans-to-wear-masks-324852">Dwayne Johnson reveals he and family have recovered from COVID-19, urges fans to wear masks</a>

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Johnson said in the Instagram post that he and his spouse, Lauren and their daughters, Jasmine, 4, and Tiana, 2, caught the virus about 2-1/2 weeks ago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-is-america-still-burning-324839">Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Why is America still burning?</a>

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US states asked to be ready to distribute coronavirus vaccine by November 1: Report US President Donald Trump had promised to bring in the vaccine before the US elections which takes place on November 3.

US states asked to be ready to distribute coronavirus vaccine by November 1: Report US President Donald Trump had promised to bring in the vaccine before the US elections which takes place on November 3. US sanctions International Criminal Court prosecutor Fatou Bensouda US sanctions were also initiated against Phakiso Mochochoko, director of the ICC's Jurisdiction, Complementary and Cooperation Division. In tit-for-tat move, US imposes fresh restrictions on Chinese diplomats US President Donald Trump has taken a tough stance against China in the run-up to US Presidential Elections 2020 slated to be held in November. Dwayne Johnson reveals he and family have recovered from COVID-19, urges fans to wear masks Johnson said in the Instagram post that he and his spouse, Lauren and their daughters, Jasmine, 4, and Tiana, 2, caught the virus about 2-1/2 weeks ago. Watch: Gravitas: Why is America still burning?

Morning news brief: US states asked to be ready to distribute COVID-19 vaccine, US sanctions ICC prosecutor & more

According to a US newspaper, the US government has urged states to get ready to distribute a potential coronavirus vaccine by November 1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazenecas-vaccine-has-reached-phase-3-clinical-trials-trump-324379">Also Read:&nbsp;AstraZeneca's vaccine has reached Phase 3 clinical trials, says Trump</a>

The Wall Street Journal quoting a letter from Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, saying: "CDC urgently requests your assistance in expediting applications for these distribution facilities," adding, "if necessary, asks that you consider waiving requirements that would prevent these facilities from becoming fully operational by Nov. 1, 2020." &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump had promised to bring in the vaccine before the US elections which takes place on November 3.

"Vaccine and ancillary supplies will be procured and distributed by the federal government at no cost to enrolled Covid-19 vaccination providers," the letter said.

The Trump administration under its plan "Operation Warp Speed" had decided to pool in resources to accelerate the process of finding a vaccine as soon as possible as the US began sinking with the virus.&nbsp;

Currently, there are three vaccines in Phase 3 clinical trials which include AstraZeneca which is partnering with Oxford University in England, Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech.

The United States has the most number of coronavirus patients with at over 6 million along with 185,000 fatalities.

According to a US newspaper, the US government has urged states to get ready to distribute a potential coronavirus vaccine by November 1. Also Read: AstraZeneca's vaccine has reached Phase 3 clinical trials, says Trump The Wall Street Journal quoting a letter from Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, saying: "CDC urgently requests your assistance in expediting applications for these distribution facilities," adding, "if necessary, asks that you consider waiving requirements that would prevent these facilities from becoming fully operational by Nov.

According to a US newspaper, the US government has urged states to get ready to distribute a potential coronavirus vaccine by November 1. Also Read: AstraZeneca's vaccine has reached Phase 3 clinical trials, says Trump The Wall Street Journal quoting a letter from Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, saying: "CDC urgently requests your assistance in expediting applications for these distribution facilities," adding, "if necessary, asks that you consider waiving requirements that would prevent these facilities from becoming fully operational by Nov. 1, 2020." US President Donald Trump had promised to bring in the vaccine before the US elections which takes place on November 3. "Vaccine and ancillary supplies will be procured and distributed by the federal government at no cost to enrolled Covid-19 vaccination providers," the letter said. The Trump administration under its plan "Operation Warp Speed" had decided to pool in resources to accelerate the process of finding a vaccine as soon as possible as the US began sinking with the virus. Currently, there are three vaccines in Phase 3 clinical trials which include AstraZeneca which is partnering with Oxford University in England, Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech. The United States has the most number of coronavirus patients with at over 6 million along with 185,000 fatalities.

US states asked to be ready to distribute coronavirus vaccine by November 1: Report

AstraZeneca said today that it has taken up late-stage study by enrolling 30,000 subjects in order to come up with the COVID-19 vaccine.

Watch:

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"I am pleased to announce that AstraZeneca's vaccine has reached Phase 3 clinical trials and has joined various vaccines that are close to the end. In the United States, we are doing things that people thought were not possible," the US president said.

The US government had put "Operation Warp Speed" into effect in order to accelerate efforts to find a vaccine as quickly as possible.

The company said it could have "data by October" to support US emergency use authorization. President Trump had earlier claimed that a vaccine would be available in the US before the November 3 elections.

AstraZeneca has been developing the vaccine in collaboration with Oxford University researchers and Pfizer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-trump-pressurising-fda-to-issue-a-coronavirus-vaccine-before-completing-trials-324226">Also Read:&nbsp;Is Trump pressurising FDA to issue a coronavirus vaccine before completing trials?</a>

The company said that participants for the trial will receive two doses of the experimental vaccine AZD1222, four weeks apart

Stephen Hahn the head of the US Food and Drug Administration(FDA) had said that the agency could give emergency approval to a vaccine before the end of trials, however, he added that "we may find that appropriate. We may find that inappropriate, we will make a determination.”

However, Hahn said that "this is not going to be a political decision." &nbsp;"This is going to be a science, medicine, data decision," Hahn insisted.

"Our emergency use authorization is not the same as a full approval," he said, meaning that it would be only for specific, "high-risk groups".

AstraZeneca said today that it has taken up late-stage study by enrolling 30,000 subjects in order to come up with the COVID-19 vaccine. Watch: "I am pleased to announce that AstraZeneca's vaccine has reached Phase 3 clinical trials and has joined various vaccines that are close to the end.

AstraZeneca said today that it has taken up late-stage study by enrolling 30,000 subjects in order to come up with the COVID-19 vaccine. Watch: "I am pleased to announce that AstraZeneca's vaccine has reached Phase 3 clinical trials and has joined various vaccines that are close to the end. In the United States, we are doing things that people thought were not possible," the US president said. The US government had put "Operation Warp Speed" into effect in order to accelerate efforts to find a vaccine as quickly as possible. The company said it could have "data by October" to support US emergency use authorization. President Trump had earlier claimed that a vaccine would be available in the US before the November 3 elections. AstraZeneca has been developing the vaccine in collaboration with Oxford University researchers and Pfizer. Also Read: Is Trump pressurising FDA to issue a coronavirus vaccine before completing trials? The company said that participants for the trial will receive two doses of the experimental vaccine AZD1222, four weeks apart Stephen Hahn the head of the US Food and Drug Administration(FDA) had said that the agency could give emergency approval to a vaccine before the end of trials, however, he added that "we may find that appropriate. We may find that inappropriate, we will make a determination.” However, Hahn said that "this is not going to be a political decision." "This is going to be a science, medicine, data decision," Hahn insisted. "Our emergency use authorization is not the same as a full approval," he said, meaning that it would be only for specific, "high-risk groups".

AstraZeneca's vaccine has reached Phase 3 clinical trials: Trump

After President Vladimir Putin declared that the country had developed the world's first coronavirus vaccine, the World Health Organization(WHO) said it was "discussing the new COVID-19 vaccine with Russia."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-developed-worlds-first-coronavirus-vaccine-putin-319696">Also Read:&nbsp;Russia has developed world's 'first' coronavirus vaccine, says&nbsp;Putin</a>

The United Nations health agency's spokesman Tarik Jasarevic said: "We are in close contact with the Russian health authorities and discussions are ongoing with respect to possible WHO pre-qualification of the vaccine."

Watch:&nbsp;

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"Pre-qualification of any vaccine includes the rigorous review and assessment of all the required safety and efficacy data," Jasarevic added. The vaccine has been developed by Russia's Gamaleya research institute along with the country's defence force.

"Every country has national regulatory agencies that approve the use of vaccines or medicines on its territory," Jasarevic informed, adding, "WHO has in place a process of pre-qualification for vaccines but also for medicines. Manufacturers ask to have the WHO pre-qualification because it is a sort of stamp of quality."

"To get this, there is a review and assessment of all required safety and efficacy data that are gathered through the clinical trials. WHO will do this for any candidate vaccine."

Kirill Dmitriev, the head of Russian direct investment fund which finances the vaccine project said that Phase 3 trials would start on Wednesday with industrial production due to start next month.

WHO's Jasarevic said that he was encouraged by the speed by which several candidate vaccines have been developing however he cautioned that "accelerating progress does not mean compromising on safety".

After President Vladimir Putin declared that the country had developed the world's first coronavirus vaccine, the World Health Organization(WHO) said it was "discussing the new COVID-19 vaccine with Russia.

After President Vladimir Putin declared that the country had developed the world's first coronavirus vaccine, the World Health Organization(WHO) said it was "discussing the new COVID-19 vaccine with Russia." Also Read: Russia has developed world's 'first' coronavirus vaccine, says Putin The United Nations health agency's spokesman Tarik Jasarevic said: "We are in close contact with the Russian health authorities and discussions are ongoing with respect to possible WHO pre-qualification of the vaccine." Watch: "Pre-qualification of any vaccine includes the rigorous review and assessment of all the required safety and efficacy data," Jasarevic added. The vaccine has been developed by Russia's Gamaleya research institute along with the country's defence force. "Every country has national regulatory agencies that approve the use of vaccines or medicines on its territory," Jasarevic informed, adding, "WHO has in place a process of pre-qualification for vaccines but also for medicines. Manufacturers ask to have the WHO pre-qualification because it is a sort of stamp of quality." "To get this, there is a review and assessment of all required safety and efficacy data that are gathered through the clinical trials. WHO will do this for any candidate vaccine." Kirill Dmitriev, the head of Russian direct investment fund which finances the vaccine project said that Phase 3 trials would start on Wednesday with industrial production due to start next month. WHO's Jasarevic said that he was encouraged by the speed by which several candidate vaccines have been developing however he cautioned that "accelerating progress does not mean compromising on safety".

In contact with Russia over vaccine, rigorous review and assessment required: WHO

Amid the race to find a vaccine to combat the coronavirus pandemic, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has said that "single dose" would not be enough with multiple doses required to fight the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-concerned-over-spike-in-infections-in-europe-coronavirus-covid19-315708">Also Read:&nbsp;WHO concerned over infections surge in Europe</a>

"None of the vaccines at this point appear like they'll work with a single dose. That was the hope at the very beginning," Bill Gates said during an interview with a US television channel.&nbsp;

Watch:

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Gates, 64, added that since people from across the globe would have to be administered the vaccine due to large spread of the virus "it is unbelievably big numbers", he added that the vaccine would need to cover "70-80% coverage on a global basis".

Gates said that if needed multiple doses would&nbsp;require more than 7 billion vaccinations to be given out worldwide.

The Microsoft chairman backed the US Food and Drug Administration(FDA) saying that the FDA is the "gold standard of regulators" and if they have "current guidance on this then it is very very appropriate."

Gates had said earlier that the vaccine should be distributed to those who need it than to the highest "highest bidders".&nbsp;

The Gates Foundation has already pledged $7.4 billion to the global vaccines alliance Gavi.

There are at least 200 vaccines in various stages of development currently around the world with UK's Oxford University and AstraZeneca conducting human trials, Pfizer, Merck and Moderna are also in the race to provide a vaccine at the earliest.

Another vaccine, developed by state-owned Chinese company Sinopharm entered Phase 3 trials this month in the UAE.

"We need leaders to make these hard decisions about distributing based on equity, not just on market-driven factors," Gates had said earlier while pointing out that the supply chains of drugs, including against AIDS risks disruptions but can be prevented.

Gates, however, said he remained "optimistic" that coronavirus can be beaten while adding that the world will continue to "make strides against AIDS and other health crisis."

Amid the race to find a vaccine to combat the coronavirus pandemic, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has said that "single dose" would not be enough with multiple doses required to fight the virus.

Amid the race to find a vaccine to combat the coronavirus pandemic, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has said that "single dose" would not be enough with multiple doses required to fight the virus. Also Read: WHO concerned over infections surge in Europe "None of the vaccines at this point appear like they'll work with a single dose. That was the hope at the very beginning," Bill Gates said during an interview with a US television channel. Watch: Gates, 64, added that since people from across the globe would have to be administered the vaccine due to large spread of the virus "it is unbelievably big numbers", he added that the vaccine would need to cover "70-80% coverage on a global basis". Gates said that if needed multiple doses would require more than 7 billion vaccinations to be given out worldwide. The Microsoft chairman backed the US Food and Drug Administration(FDA) saying that the FDA is the "gold standard of regulators" and if they have "current guidance on this then it is very very appropriate." Gates had said earlier that the vaccine should be distributed to those who need it than to the highest "highest bidders". The Gates Foundation has already pledged $7.4 billion to the global vaccines alliance Gavi. There are at least 200 vaccines in various stages of development currently around the world with UK's Oxford University and AstraZeneca conducting human trials, Pfizer, Merck and Moderna are also in the race to provide a vaccine at the earliest. Another vaccine, developed by state-owned Chinese company Sinopharm entered Phase 3 trials this month in the UAE. "We need leaders to make these hard decisions about distributing based on equity, not just on market-driven factors," Gates had said earlier while pointing out that the supply chains of drugs, including against AIDS risks disruptions but can be prevented. Gates, however, said he remained "optimistic" that coronavirus can be beaten while adding that the world will continue to "make strides against AIDS and other health crisis."

'More than 7 billion vaccinations: None of the vaccines appear they will work with a 'single dose', says Bill Gates on combating coronavirus

Governments of America, Britain and Canada have accused Russian hackers of trying to steal their coronavirus research. The charge is that Russian hackers tried to steal intelligence from universities, companies and other health care organizations.

America has named one group - cozy bear which is also known as APT29, the same group was implicated in the hacking of the Democratic Party in 2016.

The United States, the United Kingdom and Canada - all three are pointing fingers at Russian spies.

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Vaccine research is a top target for spies right now with countries signing blank cheques to get their hands on a vaccine that works but there are attempts to steal it. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that they are trying to get their hands on it.

The United States seems to be a prime target. In May, America had claimed that Iran and China have tried to hack American research but the Trump administration tried to single out China. The US president himself brought it up during a press interaction.&nbsp;

Clearly, Trump isn’t happy since it is a race against time as everyone wants a vaccine but getting their first has its perks. &nbsp;Firstly, the country gets to control the global supply and the cost - &nbsp;it’s an opportunity to make money, and whoever gets there first will have the upper hand on the world stage and that country with the help of allies will pull the adversaries down.

Also, &nbsp;national pride will be involved and the leader of the country is likely to witness his support swell.

There are 140 vaccines in pre-clinical stage presently.&nbsp;These vaccines are being developed by pharma companies, universities and independent efforts around the world. Pre-clinical stage means that at this stage researchers give the vaccine to animals to see if it triggers an immune response.&nbsp;

Nineteen vaccines are in Phase-1 of clinical testing which is given to a small group of people. In this phase, researchers see if the vaccine is safe, and the immune response it creates. Eleven vaccines are in Phase-2 which is being administered to hundreds of people. At this stage, researchers learn about the safety of the vaccine and its correct dosage.

As of today, only three vaccines are in Phase 3 with&nbsp;large-scale efficacy trials one step away from final approval. During this stage the vaccine is tested on thousands of people. Researchers test&nbsp;the vaccine for effectiveness including side effects.

Research is being conducted around the world but four countries are the ones to watch out for - in the United States, the Moderna vaccine has entered its final stage of human trials.

In the United Kingdom, Oxford University has initiated human trials of its vaccine. Scientists in Itay have devised five test vaccines with two selected for further trials.

In India, reports say that there are 30 different vaccines under development. The government is putting its weight on Covaxin which is under human trials.

Governments of America, Britain and Canada have accused Russian hackers of trying to steal their coronavirus research. The charge is that Russian hackers tried to steal intelligence from universities, companies and other health care organizations.

Governments of America, Britain and Canada have accused Russian hackers of trying to steal their coronavirus research. The charge is that Russian hackers tried to steal intelligence from universities, companies and other health care organizations. America has named one group - cozy bear which is also known as APT29, the same group was implicated in the hacking of the Democratic Party in 2016. The United States, the United Kingdom and Canada - all three are pointing fingers at Russian spies. Vaccine research is a top target for spies right now with countries signing blank cheques to get their hands on a vaccine that works but there are attempts to steal it. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that they are trying to get their hands on it. The United States seems to be a prime target. In May, America had claimed that Iran and China have tried to hack American research but the Trump administration tried to single out China. The US president himself brought it up during a press interaction. Clearly, Trump isn’t happy since it is a race against time as everyone wants a vaccine but getting their first has its perks. Firstly, the country gets to control the global supply and the cost - it’s an opportunity to make money, and whoever gets there first will have the upper hand on the world stage and that country with the help of allies will pull the adversaries down. Also, national pride will be involved and the leader of the country is likely to witness his support swell. There are 140 vaccines in pre-clinical stage presently. These vaccines are being developed by pharma companies, universities and independent efforts around the world. Pre-clinical stage means that at this stage researchers give the vaccine to animals to see if it triggers an immune response. Nineteen vaccines are in Phase-1 of clinical testing which is given to a small group of people. In this phase, researchers see if the vaccine is safe, and the immune response it creates. Eleven vaccines are in Phase-2 which is being administered to hundreds of people. At this stage, researchers learn about the safety of the vaccine and its correct dosage. As of today, only three vaccines are in Phase 3 with large-scale efficacy trials one step away from final approval. During this stage the vaccine is tested on thousands of people. Researchers test the vaccine for effectiveness including side effects. Research is being conducted around the world but four countries are the ones to watch out for - in the United States, the Moderna vaccine has entered its final stage of human trials. In the United Kingdom, Oxford University has initiated human trials of its vaccine. Scientists in Itay have devised five test vaccines with two selected for further trials. In India, reports say that there are 30 different vaccines under development. The government is putting its weight on Covaxin which is under human trials.

Coronavirus vaccine wars: US accuses Russian hacker group APT29 of trying to steal data

The desperation for a vaccine is driving countries to try everything and the United States is leading the world in "vaccine nationalism". 
In March, the Trump administration met with representatives from Curevac - a German biotech company which is developing a vaccine.&nbsp;

Reports say the US government wanted exclusive rights for the vaccine.&nbsp;Germany heard about it and promptly issued a statement. The German government said that “Germany is not for sale.” On June 15, Germany invested nearly $340 million in Curevac for a 23 per cent stake in the company.

However, it didn’t stop America’s hunt for a vaccine. The US government has invested $500 million in Moderna’s vaccine project. Moderna is an American company but, America wanted its hands on more vaccines.

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In April, French company Sanofi announced that the US had the right to place the largest pre-order for its vaccine because America is partially funding Sanofi’s research but after pressure from the French government the company shifted its stand.

A vaccine is the ultimate weapon to defeat the Wuhan virus whoever has it will call the shots. Any country that gets to the vaccine first can reserve it for its population, control its production and decide how much of it can be exported, to whom and for how much.

A vaccine brings tremendous power into the hands of one country. It this has happened earlier. The world has seen the result of vaccine nationalism. It happened in 2009 during the early stages of the H1N1 pandemic. Wealthy countries entered into pre-purchase agreements with several companies. Rich countries locked the H1NI1 vaccine for themselves and only the developed world had first access.

The United States alone negotiated and bought the right to buy six lakh doses and only when the pandemic was about to end when the demand for the vaccine dropped they decide to share.

Nine developed countries decided to donate vaccine doses.&nbsp;Once again, a cold war is underway for the Wuhan virus vaccine and history seems to be repeating itself.

The desperation for a vaccine is driving countries to try everything and the United States is leading the world in "vaccine nationalism". In March, the Trump administration met with representatives from Curevac - a German biotech company which is developing a vaccine.

The desperation for a vaccine is driving countries to try everything and the United States is leading the world in "vaccine nationalism". In March, the Trump administration met with representatives from Curevac - a German biotech company which is developing a vaccine. Reports say the US government wanted exclusive rights for the vaccine. Germany heard about it and promptly issued a statement. The German government said that “Germany is not for sale.” On June 15, Germany invested nearly $340 million in Curevac for a 23 per cent stake in the company. However, it didn’t stop America’s hunt for a vaccine. The US government has invested $500 million in Moderna’s vaccine project. Moderna is an American company but, America wanted its hands on more vaccines. In April, French company Sanofi announced that the US had the right to place the largest pre-order for its vaccine because America is partially funding Sanofi’s research but after pressure from the French government the company shifted its stand. A vaccine is the ultimate weapon to defeat the Wuhan virus whoever has it will call the shots. Any country that gets to the vaccine first can reserve it for its population, control its production and decide how much of it can be exported, to whom and for how much. A vaccine brings tremendous power into the hands of one country. It this has happened earlier. The world has seen the result of vaccine nationalism. It happened in 2009 during the early stages of the H1N1 pandemic. Wealthy countries entered into pre-purchase agreements with several companies. Rich countries locked the H1NI1 vaccine for themselves and only the developed world had first access. The United States alone negotiated and bought the right to buy six lakh doses and only when the pandemic was about to end when the demand for the vaccine dropped they decide to share. Nine developed countries decided to donate vaccine doses. Once again, a cold war is underway for the Wuhan virus vaccine and history seems to be repeating itself.

US leads in 'vaccine nationalism' as coronavirus engulfs the world

The Trump administration has injected&nbsp;$1.6 billion in&nbsp;Biotechnology company Novavax to ensure manufacturing of potential coronavirus vaccine in the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-firm-says-covid-19-vaccine-candidate-shows-promise-in-human-test-309159">Also Read:&nbsp;Chinese firm says COVID-19 vaccine candidate shows promise in human test</a>

The US government has given the company a&nbsp;target of 100 million doses by January next year as part of “Operation Warp Speed” meant to accelerate&nbsp;vaccine programmes.

The cost includes the crucial Phase III trial involving humans which is set to begin in October.

The US government has already spent millions of dollars to support vaccine initiatives by Moderna, AstraZeneca, &nbsp;Johnson &amp; Johnson and Emergent Biosolutions in a bid to find a solution to the coronavirus pandemic.

Novavax shares surged 38 per cent in pre-market trading as the US government announced cash inflow into the company.

AstraZeneca has already started human trials in Brazil administering it to high-risk individuals who are likely to come into contact with COVID-19 patients namely doctors and nurses.&nbsp;

AstraZeneca had earlier claimed that a trial on pigs had resulted in the production of antibody with two doses producing greater antibodies than a single dose.

Meanwhile, pharmaceutical firm Regeneron said that it had entered the final stages of human trials to find out whether a drug can treat and prevent COVID-19.

The Trump administration has injected $1.6 billion in Biotechnology company Novavax to ensure manufacturing of potential coronavirus vaccine in the United States.

The Trump administration has injected $1.6 billion in Biotechnology company Novavax to ensure manufacturing of potential coronavirus vaccine in the United States. Also Read: Chinese firm says COVID-19 vaccine candidate shows promise in human test The US government has given the company a target of 100 million doses by January next year as part of “Operation Warp Speed” meant to accelerate vaccine programmes. The cost includes the crucial Phase III trial involving humans which is set to begin in October. The US government has already spent millions of dollars to support vaccine initiatives by Moderna, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson and Emergent Biosolutions in a bid to find a solution to the coronavirus pandemic. Novavax shares surged 38 per cent in pre-market trading as the US government announced cash inflow into the company. AstraZeneca has already started human trials in Brazil administering it to high-risk individuals who are likely to come into contact with COVID-19 patients namely doctors and nurses. AstraZeneca had earlier claimed that a trial on pigs had resulted in the production of antibody with two doses producing greater antibodies than a single dose. Meanwhile, pharmaceutical firm Regeneron said that it had entered the final stages of human trials to find out whether a drug can treat and prevent COVID-19.

Operation Warp Speed: US injects $1.6 billion in Novavax for coronavirus vaccine

US&nbsp;immunotherapy company Inovio Pharmaceuticals Inc said on Wednesday its experimental&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;to prevent coronavirus infection produced protective antibodies and immune system responses in&nbsp;mice&nbsp;and&nbsp;guinea&nbsp;pigs.

"We saw antibody responses that do many of the things we would want to see in an eventual&nbsp;vaccine," said Dr. David Weiner, director of the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;and immunotherapy center at the Wistar Institute, which has collaborated with Inovio.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-first-human-trial-reflects-possibility-of-creating-immunity-299481">COVID-19 vaccine first human trial reflects possibility of creating 'immunity'</a>

"We are able to target things that would prevent the virus from having a safe harbor in the body."

The company's shares, which have more than quadrupled this year on hopes of its&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;working, surged another 18 per cent&nbsp;to $15.77 early trading.

There are currently no approved treatments or&nbsp;vaccines for COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, with governments, drugmakers and researchers working on around 100&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;programs.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oxford-coronavirus-vaccine-found-protective-in-small-monkey-study-298903">Oxford coronavirus vaccine found 'protective' in small monkey: Study</a>

Experts predict a safe and effective&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;could take 12 to 18 months to develop.

Inovio began human testing of its&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;in April. Many other drugmakers including Moderna Inc, Pfizer Inc, Johnson &amp; Johnson, Sanofi and AstraZeneca Plc are also in various stages of&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;development.

On Monday, Moderna said its experimental COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;produced protective antibodies in a small group of healthy volunteers, according to very early data, putting it at the front in the race.

Inovio said preliminary results from its human trial are expected in June. The 40 healthy participants in the Phase 1 trial are given two shots, four weeks apart, of the&nbsp;vaccine, called INO-4800, and then followed for two weeks.

"We are already seeing safety data and it has been benign," Dr. Katherine Broderick, head of research and development at Inovio, told Reuters. "Some people have slight redness of the arm."

Both Moderna and Inovio are using newer technology that focuses on specific genes on the outer "spike" portion of the virus.

Inovio's&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;was designed using its DNA medicine platform, while Moderna's&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;uses messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. Both companies have no approved drug in the market.

Inovio has been severely criticized by Citron Research, with the short seller slapping a target price of $2 on the company's stock.&nbsp;

Once the preliminary data is in, Inovio expects to approach the US&nbsp;Food and Drug Administration for authorization to move into a Phase 2/3 trial, which could happen in July or August.

Inovio said the latest animal study results, published in the journal Nature Communications, validate its DNA medicines platform.

It plans to test the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;in larger animals including rabbits and monkeys, and undertake "challenge" studies in&nbsp;mice, ferrets and monkeys, Broderick said.

"Challenge" studies involve intentionally giving the virus to an animal and then seeing if the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;prevents infection.

Inovio's&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;efforts are funded by a global coalition and the company has said it can manufacture 1 million doses by the end of the year for additional trials and emergency use.

US immunotherapy company Inovio Pharmaceuticals Inc said on Wednesday its experimental vaccine to prevent coronavirus infection produced protective antibodies and immune system responses in mice and guinea pigs.

US immunotherapy company Inovio Pharmaceuticals Inc said on Wednesday its experimental vaccine to prevent coronavirus infection produced protective antibodies and immune system responses in mice and guinea pigs. "We saw antibody responses that do many of the things we would want to see in an eventual vaccine," said Dr. David Weiner, director of the vaccine and immunotherapy center at the Wistar Institute, which has collaborated with Inovio. Also read: COVID-19 vaccine first human trial reflects possibility of creating 'immunity' "We are able to target things that would prevent the virus from having a safe harbor in the body." The company's shares, which have more than quadrupled this year on hopes of its vaccine working, surged another 18 per cent to $15.77 early trading. There are currently no approved treatments or vaccines for COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, with governments, drugmakers and researchers working on around 100 vaccine programs. Also read: Oxford coronavirus vaccine found 'protective' in small monkey: Study Experts predict a safe and effective vaccine could take 12 to 18 months to develop. Inovio began human testing of its vaccine in April. Many other drugmakers including Moderna Inc, Pfizer Inc, Johnson & Johnson, Sanofi and AstraZeneca Plc are also in various stages of vaccine development. On Monday, Moderna said its experimental COVID-19 vaccine produced protective antibodies in a small group of healthy volunteers, according to very early data, putting it at the front in the race. Inovio said preliminary results from its human trial are expected in June. The 40 healthy participants in the Phase 1 trial are given two shots, four weeks apart, of the vaccine, called INO-4800, and then followed for two weeks. "We are already seeing safety data and it has been benign," Dr. Katherine Broderick, head of research and development at Inovio, told Reuters. "Some people have slight redness of the arm." Both Moderna and Inovio are using newer technology that focuses on specific genes on the outer "spike" portion of the virus. Inovio's vaccine was designed using its DNA medicine platform, while Moderna's vaccine uses messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. Both companies have no approved drug in the market. Inovio has been severely criticized by Citron Research, with the short seller slapping a target price of $2 on the company's stock. Once the preliminary data is in, Inovio expects to approach the US Food and Drug Administration for authorization to move into a Phase 2/3 trial, which could happen in July or August. Inovio said the latest animal study results, published in the journal Nature Communications, validate its DNA medicines platform. It plans to test the vaccine in larger animals including rabbits and monkeys, and undertake "challenge" studies in mice, ferrets and monkeys, Broderick said. "Challenge" studies involve intentionally giving the virus to an animal and then seeing if the vaccine prevents infection. Inovio's vaccine efforts are funded by a global coalition and the company has said it can manufacture 1 million doses by the end of the year for additional trials and emergency use.

US: COVID-19 vaccine produces antibodies in mice, guinea pigs

US biotech firm Moderna said today that its vaccine for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-initiate-independent-evaluation-at-earliest-appropriate-moment-who-chief-on-coronvirus-pandemic-299468">COVID-19 </a>appeared to generate an immune response similar to the response seen in people who have been infected by the virus and recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccine-global-public-good-not-for-market-forces-french-government-on-sanofi-ceos-us-tilt-298742">Also Read: Vaccine global public good, not for market forces, says&nbsp;France on Sanofi CEO's US tilt</a>

The company said clinical tests of its vaccine against COVID-19 on volunteers showed "positive interim results".

Moderna’s chief medical officer Tal Zaks said: "Interim Phase 1 data, while early, demonstrate that vaccination with mRNA-1273 elicits an immune response of the magnitude caused by natural infection starting with a dose as low as 25 μg."

"The vaccine was generally safe and well tolerated," Moderna said.

“When combined with the success in preventing viral replication in the lungs of a pre-clinical challenge model at a dose that elicited similar levels of neutralising antibodies, these data substantiate our belief that mRNA-1273 has the potential to prevent COVID-19 disease and advance our ability to select a dose for pivotal trials,” Zaks added.

The company informed that the Phase-2 trial has already been given the go-ahead by the US Food and Drug Administration(FDA). Moderna said that phase 3 trials with a large number of volunteers would begin in July.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

"The Moderna team continues to focus on moving as fast as safely possible to start our pivotal Phase 3 study in July," Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel said, adding,"We are investing to scale up manufacturing so we can maximize the number of doses we can produce to help protect as many people as we can from SARS-CoV-2."

The vaccine is being developed along with the National Institutes of Health with the US government having invested half a billion into the research.

US biotech firm Moderna said today that its vaccine for COVID-19 appeared to generate an immune response similar to the response seen in people who have been infected by the virus and recovered.

US biotech firm Moderna said today that its vaccine for COVID-19 appeared to generate an immune response similar to the response seen in people who have been infected by the virus and recovered. Also Read: Vaccine global public good, not for market forces, says France on Sanofi CEO's US tilt The company said clinical tests of its vaccine against COVID-19 on volunteers showed "positive interim results". Moderna’s chief medical officer Tal Zaks said: "Interim Phase 1 data, while early, demonstrate that vaccination with mRNA-1273 elicits an immune response of the magnitude caused by natural infection starting with a dose as low as 25 μg." "The vaccine was generally safe and well tolerated," Moderna said. “When combined with the success in preventing viral replication in the lungs of a pre-clinical challenge model at a dose that elicited similar levels of neutralising antibodies, these data substantiate our belief that mRNA-1273 has the potential to prevent COVID-19 disease and advance our ability to select a dose for pivotal trials,” Zaks added. The company informed that the Phase-2 trial has already been given the go-ahead by the US Food and Drug Administration(FDA). Moderna said that phase 3 trials with a large number of volunteers would begin in July. "The Moderna team continues to focus on moving as fast as safely possible to start our pivotal Phase 3 study in July," Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel said, adding,"We are investing to scale up manufacturing so we can maximize the number of doses we can produce to help protect as many people as we can from SARS-CoV-2." The vaccine is being developed along with the National Institutes of Health with the US government having invested half a billion into the research.

COVID-19 vaccine first human trial reflects possibility of creating 'immunity'

Amid the coronavirus epidemic, China and the United States are engaged in a a "medical arms race" with each side intent on finding the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-initiate-independent-evaluation-at-earliest-appropriate-moment-who-chief-on-coronavirus-pandemic-299468">coronavirus</a> vaccine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-biotech-firm-moderna-reports-positive-interim-phase-1-results-for-coronavirus-vaccine-299481">Also Read:&nbsp;US biotech firm Moderna reports 'positive interim' phase 1 results for vaccine</a>

With big money and global influence at stake, the United States and China are freely funding scientists even as labs are working on cures and vaccines.

In their quest for power these two countries could end up deciding who would get it first. US President Trump announced&nbsp;recently that by January America will have the vaccine and he has a "big and fast" plan to get the vaccine to those who need it.

"Today I want to update you on the next stage of this momentous medical initiative. it's called operation warp speed, that means big and it means fast," the US president announced, adding, "a massive scientific, industrial and logistical endeavor, unlike anything our country has seen since the Manhattan Project."

"You really could say that nobody's seen anything like we're doing, whether it's ventilators or testing. Nobody's seen anything like we're doing now within our country since the World War-II."

"Incredible. It's objective is to finish developing and then to manufacture and distribute a proven coronavirus vaccine as fast as possible, again, we'd love to see if we could do it prior to the end of the year. We think we're going to have some very good results coming out very quickly," Trump said.

The US presient is fighting the pandemic in a way that he knows best by writing cheques and its virtually a bank cheque. The US biomedical advanced research and development authority(BARDA) is spending big. The government agency has announced nearly $1 billion in support for coronavirus vaccine development.

In March, the American lawmakers had approved more than $8 billion dollars for coronavirus response wit over $ 3 billion set side for research and development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics.

The United States started its vaccine hunt with around 100 candidates, its now down to 14 and, if there is something that works better - anywhere in the world &nbsp;- America will find a way to create room in the budget and buy its way in.

Already, the United States is funding one project in France. The money is going to Sanof - a private vaccine company. One of their vaccine projects is being partly funded by BARDA. Sanofi's CEO had triggered a row saying that America would be first in line to get the vaccine supplies. The company has now backtracked on that promise.

China is writing blank cheques too. It has five candidates in human trials and it wants to test more. China wants to get there first. It sees the race as a matter of national pride. A commentator in the state-run Global Times said it is a matter of life and death.

"We must be aware that the development of a vaccine is a battle that China cannot afford to lose," the Global Times piece said. Beijing agrees even after creating the crisis, it is funding the vaccine. However, China's approach is a little different its military is involved in developing the vaccine. The scientists are working overtime as Presient Xi Jinping made a commitment to the world today that China will give the world a vaccine.

Clearly, the Dragon wants to play savior. China wants to emerge stronger out of the COVID-19 crisis. So, its accelerating its research and positioning itself into the role of a "rescuer" while using the state media to pan the American efforts for the vaccine.

Amid the coronavirus epidemic, China and the United States are engaged in a a "medical arms race" with each side intent on finding the coronavirus vaccine. Also Read: US biotech firm Moderna reports 'positive interim' phase 1 results for vaccine With big money and global influence at stake, the United States and China are freely funding scientists even as labs are working on cures and vaccines.

Amid the coronavirus epidemic, China and the United States are engaged in a a "medical arms race" with each side intent on finding the coronavirus vaccine. Also Read: US biotech firm Moderna reports 'positive interim' phase 1 results for vaccine With big money and global influence at stake, the United States and China are freely funding scientists even as labs are working on cures and vaccines. In their quest for power these two countries could end up deciding who would get it first. US President Trump announced recently that by January America will have the vaccine and he has a "big and fast" plan to get the vaccine to those who need it. "Today I want to update you on the next stage of this momentous medical initiative. it's called operation warp speed, that means big and it means fast," the US president announced, adding, "a massive scientific, industrial and logistical endeavor, unlike anything our country has seen since the Manhattan Project." "You really could say that nobody's seen anything like we're doing, whether it's ventilators or testing. Nobody's seen anything like we're doing now within our country since the World War-II." "Incredible. It's objective is to finish developing and then to manufacture and distribute a proven coronavirus vaccine as fast as possible, again, we'd love to see if we could do it prior to the end of the year. We think we're going to have some very good results coming out very quickly," Trump said. The US presient is fighting the pandemic in a way that he knows best by writing cheques and its virtually a bank cheque. The US biomedical advanced research and development authority(BARDA) is spending big. The government agency has announced nearly $1 billion in support for coronavirus vaccine development. In March, the American lawmakers had approved more than $8 billion dollars for coronavirus response wit over $ 3 billion set side for research and development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics. The United States started its vaccine hunt with around 100 candidates, its now down to 14 and, if there is something that works better - anywhere in the world - America will find a way to create room in the budget and buy its way in. Already, the United States is funding one project in France. The money is going to Sanof - a private vaccine company. One of their vaccine projects is being partly funded by BARDA. Sanofi's CEO had triggered a row saying that America would be first in line to get the vaccine supplies. The company has now backtracked on that promise. China is writing blank cheques too. It has five candidates in human trials and it wants to test more. China wants to get there first. It sees the race as a matter of national pride. A commentator in the state-run Global Times said it is a matter of life and death. "We must be aware that the development of a vaccine is a battle that China cannot afford to lose," the Global Times piece said. Beijing agrees even after creating the crisis, it is funding the vaccine. However, China's approach is a little different its military is involved in developing the vaccine. The scientists are working overtime as Presient Xi Jinping made a commitment to the world today that China will give the world a vaccine. Clearly, the Dragon wants to play savior. China wants to emerge stronger out of the COVID-19 crisis. So, its accelerating its research and positioning itself into the role of a "rescuer" while using the state media to pan the American efforts for the vaccine.

US, China in 'medical arms race' over coronavirus vaccine