The coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> developed by AstraZeneca has faced criticism as some people developed ‘blood clots’ after getting jabbed. However, a group of German scientists has found a way to avoid the deadly side effect.

As of now, anyone aged less than 40 faces the risk of developing blood clots after getting the jab developed by AstraZeneca. Considering this, the UK government has been urging people under 40s to opt for the alternatives — such as Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna — instead of choosing AstraZeneca or Johnson &amp; Johnson.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-vaccine-highly-effective-on-covid-19-variant-found-in-india-suitable-for-12-yrs-and-above-pfizer-to-govt-387625" hreflang="en">Our vaccine highly effective on COVID-19 variant found in India, suitable for 12 yrs and above: Pfizer to Govt</a>

The problem lies in 'adenovirus', a common cold virus that is used to deliver the spike protein of COVID-19 into the body, Rolf Marschalek, professor of Goethe university explained.

As per the scientists, the problem arises due to the entry of the adenovirus in the nucleus of the cell, and not just the cellular fluid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-and-astrazeneca-battle-in-court-over-vaccine-delays-387440" hreflang="en">EU and AstraZeneca battle in court over vaccine delays</a>

This leads to splitting of parts of the spike protein, due to which they become mutant protein pieces which can then travel into body parts and lead to blood clotting in some rare cases, the scientists explain.

"The adenovirus life cycle includes the infection of cells … entry of the adenoviral DNA into the nucleus, and subsequently gene transcription by the host transcription machinery," Marschalek explained. "And exactly here lies the problem: the viral piece of DNA…is not optimised to be transcribed inside of the nucleus."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modernas-single-dose-vaccine-in-india-likely-next-year-pfizer-ready-with-50-mn-doses-for-2021-387438" hreflang="en">Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021</a>

These vaccines can be redesigned to avoid this problem, in ways similar to Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech. The scientists claimed that Johnson &amp; Johnson are already in contact with the group to redesign the single-shot vaccine to avoid this side-effect.

"With the data we have in our hands we can tell the companies how to mutate these sequences, coding for the spike protein in a way that prevents unintended splice reactions," Marschalek said.

This study has not been peer-reviewed yet.

The coronavirus vaccine developed by AstraZeneca has faced criticism as some people developed ‘blood clots’ after getting jabbed. However, a group of German scientists has found a way to avoid the deadly side effect.

The coronavirus vaccine developed by AstraZeneca has faced criticism as some people developed ‘blood clots’ after getting jabbed. However, a group of German scientists has found a way to avoid the deadly side effect. As of now, anyone aged less than 40 faces the risk of developing blood clots after getting the jab developed by AstraZeneca. Considering this, the UK government has been urging people under 40s to opt for the alternatives — such as Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna — instead of choosing AstraZeneca or Johnson & Johnson. Also read | Our vaccine highly effective on COVID-19 variant found in India, suitable for 12 yrs and above: Pfizer to Govt The problem lies in 'adenovirus', a common cold virus that is used to deliver the spike protein of COVID-19 into the body, Rolf Marschalek, professor of Goethe university explained. As per the scientists, the problem arises due to the entry of the adenovirus in the nucleus of the cell, and not just the cellular fluid. Also read | EU and AstraZeneca battle in court over vaccine delays This leads to splitting of parts of the spike protein, due to which they become mutant protein pieces which can then travel into body parts and lead to blood clotting in some rare cases, the scientists explain. "The adenovirus life cycle includes the infection of cells … entry of the adenoviral DNA into the nucleus, and subsequently gene transcription by the host transcription machinery," Marschalek explained. "And exactly here lies the problem: the viral piece of DNA…is not optimised to be transcribed inside of the nucleus." Also read | Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021 These vaccines can be redesigned to avoid this problem, in ways similar to Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech. The scientists claimed that Johnson & Johnson are already in contact with the group to redesign the single-shot vaccine to avoid this side-effect. "With the data we have in our hands we can tell the companies how to mutate these sequences, coding for the spike protein in a way that prevents unintended splice reactions," Marschalek said. This study has not been peer-reviewed yet.

Vaccines can be redesigned to avoid blood clots, German scientists claim

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorised a monoclonal antibody drug against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir, which claims to reduce hospitalisation and death among <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">Coronavirus</a> patients by 85 per cent and is also effective against the variants. 
 
The drug Sotrovimab has been given an emergency use authorisation (EUA) for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults and children 12 years of age and older, weighing at least 40 kg.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seeking-a-pill-to-cure-covid-drugmakers-eye-alternative-to-vaccines-387717">Seeking a pill to cure Covid: Drugmakers eye alternative to vaccines</a> 
 
The drug has shown positive results among patients 65 years of age and older or individuals who have certain medical conditions and are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalisation or death. 
 
Laboratory tests have shown that Sotrovimab is able to neutralise the current circulating variants of Covid first reported in the UK, South Africa, Brazil, California, New York and India.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/black-fungus-drug-amphotericin-b-to-be-priced-at-rs-1200-for-each-vial-in-india-387750">Black fungus drug Amphotericin B to be priced at Rs 1200 for each vial in India</a> 
 
"With the authorisation of this monoclonal antibody treatment, we are providing another option to help keep high-risk patients with COVID-19 out of the hospital," Patrizia Cavazzoni, Director of the FDA`s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in a statement on Wednesday. 
 
"It is important to expand the arsenal of monoclonal antibody therapies that are expected to retain activity against the circulating variants of COVID-19 in the United States," Cavazzoni added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modernas-single-dose-vaccine-in-india-likely-next-year-pfizer-ready-with-50-mn-doses-for-2021-387438">Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021</a> 
 
However, Sotrovimab is not authorised for patients who are hospitalised due to COVID-19 or require oxygen therapy due to the disease, the FDA said. 
 
This treatment has not shown benefit in patients hospitalised due to COVID-19 and monoclonal antibodies may be associated with worse clinical outcomes when administered to hospitalised patients requiring high flow oxygen or mechanical ventilation.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-is-troubled-with-fresh-covid-wave-a-drug-and-therapy-bring-hope-379586">As India is troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope</a> 
 
Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system`s ability to fight off harmful antigens such as viruses. Sotrovimab is a monoclonal antibody that is specifically directed against the spike protein of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">SARS-CoV-2</a> and is designed to block the virus` attachment and entry into human cells. 
 
The EUA is based on an interim analysis from a Phase 1/2/3 randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in 583 non-hospitalised adults with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms and a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drug-prevents-coronavirus-infection-in-nursing-homes-maker-claims-358546">Drug prevents coronavirus infection in nursing homes, maker claims</a> 
 
Of these patients, 291 received Sotrovimab and 292 received placebo within five days of onset of COVID-19 symptoms. The primary endpoint was progression of COVID-19 (defined as hospitalisation for greater than 24 hours for acute management of any illness or death from any cause) through day 29. 
 
Hospitalisation or death occurred in 21 (7 per cent) patients who received placebo compared to 3 (1 per cent) patients treated with Sotrovimab, an 85 per cent reduction.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-grants-emergency-use-authorisation-to-regeneron-covid-19-antibodies-344588">US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies</a> 
 
The drug will be distributed and administered as a 500 milligram single dose intravenously by health care providers. Potential side effects of Sotrovimab include anaphylaxis and infusion-related reactions, rash and diarrhoea, the FDA said.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorised a monoclonal antibody drug against COVID-19, developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir, which claims to reduce hospitalisation and death among Coronavirus patients by 85 per cent and is also effective against the variants.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorised a monoclonal antibody drug against COVID-19, developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir, which claims to reduce hospitalisation and death among Coronavirus patients by 85 per cent and is also effective against the variants. The drug Sotrovimab has been given an emergency use authorisation (EUA) for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults and children 12 years of age and older, weighing at least 40 kg. Also Read | Seeking a pill to cure Covid: Drugmakers eye alternative to vaccines The drug has shown positive results among patients 65 years of age and older or individuals who have certain medical conditions and are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalisation or death. Laboratory tests have shown that Sotrovimab is able to neutralise the current circulating variants of Covid first reported in the UK, South Africa, Brazil, California, New York and India. Also Read | Black fungus drug Amphotericin B to be priced at Rs 1200 for each vial in India "With the authorisation of this monoclonal antibody treatment, we are providing another option to help keep high-risk patients with COVID-19 out of the hospital," Patrizia Cavazzoni, Director of the FDA`s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in a statement on Wednesday. "It is important to expand the arsenal of monoclonal antibody therapies that are expected to retain activity against the circulating variants of COVID-19 in the United States," Cavazzoni added. Also Read | Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021 However, Sotrovimab is not authorised for patients who are hospitalised due to COVID-19 or require oxygen therapy due to the disease, the FDA said. This treatment has not shown benefit in patients hospitalised due to COVID-19 and monoclonal antibodies may be associated with worse clinical outcomes when administered to hospitalised patients requiring high flow oxygen or mechanical ventilation. Also Read | As India is troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system`s ability to fight off harmful antigens such as viruses. Sotrovimab is a monoclonal antibody that is specifically directed against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and is designed to block the virus` attachment and entry into human cells. The EUA is based on an interim analysis from a Phase 1/2/3 randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in 583 non-hospitalised adults with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms and a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result. Also Read | Drug prevents coronavirus infection in nursing homes, maker claims Of these patients, 291 received Sotrovimab and 292 received placebo within five days of onset of COVID-19 symptoms. The primary endpoint was progression of COVID-19 (defined as hospitalisation for greater than 24 hours for acute management of any illness or death from any cause) through day 29. Hospitalisation or death occurred in 21 (7 per cent) patients who received placebo compared to 3 (1 per cent) patients treated with Sotrovimab, an 85 per cent reduction. Also Read | US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies The drug will be distributed and administered as a 500 milligram single dose intravenously by health care providers. Potential side effects of Sotrovimab include anaphylaxis and infusion-related reactions, rash and diarrhoea, the FDA said.

US FDA authorises GSK-Vir monoclonal antibody drug for Covid

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has urged locals to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as soon as possible. However, he has also cleared the air around reports of jabs being made compulsory.

While scientists and health experts have been pushing the vaccines, locals have remained skeptical about the efficacy of the jabs and are worried about the side effects that these vaccines could cause.

Out of 12 million residents, only 1.3 million Russians have been vaccinated yet, which is one of the lowest in Europe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/vaccines-can-be-redesigned-to-avoid-blood-clots-german-scientists-claim-387671">Vaccines can be redesigned to avoid blood clots, German scientists claim</a>

Putin, however, has now urged locals to put trust in the Russian vaccines and has assured that the local vaccines are "the most reliable and safest".

"The most important thing is health. Please think about it," Putin said at a government meeting. "Citizens should themselves understand this need, realise that if they do not get vaccinated they can face a very serious and even deadly danger."

However, he has also clarified that the Russian government will not be making covid jabs compulsory for locals, as opposed to few media reports.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seeking-a-pill-to-cure-covid-drugmakers-eye-alternative-to-vaccines-387717" hreflang="en">Seeking a pill to cure Covid: Drugmakers eye alternative to vaccines</a>

Meanwhile, the government has also lifted majority coronavirus restrictions, as locals have been refusing to wear masks on public transports and restaurants.

Russia was one of the first countries to register a coronavirus vaccine, called Sputnik V. In addition to that, Russia has also developed two other vaccines, namely EpiVacCorona and CoviVac.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has urged locals to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as soon as possible. However, he has also cleared the air around reports of jabs being made compulsory.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has urged locals to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as soon as possible. However, he has also cleared the air around reports of jabs being made compulsory. While scientists and health experts have been pushing the vaccines, locals have remained skeptical about the efficacy of the jabs and are worried about the side effects that these vaccines could cause. Out of 12 million residents, only 1.3 million Russians have been vaccinated yet, which is one of the lowest in Europe. Also read | Vaccines can be redesigned to avoid blood clots, German scientists claim Putin, however, has now urged locals to put trust in the Russian vaccines and has assured that the local vaccines are "the most reliable and safest". "The most important thing is health. Please think about it," Putin said at a government meeting. "Citizens should themselves understand this need, realise that if they do not get vaccinated they can face a very serious and even deadly danger." However, he has also clarified that the Russian government will not be making covid jabs compulsory for locals, as opposed to few media reports. Also read | Seeking a pill to cure Covid: Drugmakers eye alternative to vaccines Meanwhile, the government has also lifted majority coronavirus restrictions, as locals have been refusing to wear masks on public transports and restaurants. Russia was one of the first countries to register a coronavirus vaccine, called Sputnik V. In addition to that, Russia has also developed two other vaccines, namely EpiVacCorona and CoviVac.

'Reliable and safest': Putin urges locals to take Russian Covid jabs but rules out forced vaccination

While social distancing and wearing face masks can protect us from the deadly coronavirus, vaccines act as a permanent shield against this virus.&nbsp;As the Government of India is busy arranging vaccines for everyone, some myths, based on distorted statements and blatant lies, have been spreading like wildfire.

Some people believe the central government&nbsp;has failed to procure enough vaccines from western countries. However, the government said it has been in successful discussions with all the major international vaccine manufacturers (such as Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson) since mid-2020, when companies started producing the vaccines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modernas-single-dose-vaccine-in-india-likely-next-year-pfizer-ready-with-50-mn-doses-for-2021-387438" hreflang="en">Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021</a>

"We need to understand that buying vaccines internationally is not similar to buying 'off the shelf' items," explained Dr Vinod Paul, Member (Health) in NITI&nbsp;Aayog and Chair of the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC).

"Vaccines are in limited supply globally, and companies have their own priorities, game-plans and compulsions in allocating finite stocks. They also give preference to countries of their origin just as our own vaccine makers have done unhesitatingly for us," Paul explained.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-in-india-delhi-to-get-sputnik-v-vaccine-quantity-to-be-decided-says-chief-minister-kejriwal-387501" hreflang="en">Covid in India: Delhi to get Sputnik V vaccine, quantity to be decided, says Chief Minister Kejriwal</a>

The government said it has also successfully accelerated the approval and import process of Russia’s Sputnik vaccine and has been in continuous discussions with Pfizer to arrange the vaccines as soon as possible.

India has also proactively eased the entry and approval process for the vaccines which have been approved by US FDA, EMA, UK's MHRA and Japan's PMDA, and WHO's Emergency Use Listing to ensure smooth import of vaccines into the country, the government said in a release.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-vaccine-highly-effective-on-covid-19-variant-found-in-india-suitable-for-12-yrs-and-above-pfizer-to-govt-387625" hreflang="en">Our vaccine highly effective on COVID-19 variant found in India, suitable for 12 yrs and above: Pfizer to Govt</a>

New Delhi has also lent full support to domestic vaccine manufacturers such as Bharat Biotech, which will soon be increasing its production plants from one to four. Authorities are also in contact with the Serum Institute of India to increase its production of the Covishield vaccine from 6.5 crore doses per month to 11.0 crore doses per month.&nbsp;

Talking about the vaccine distribution to states, Paul assured that the vaccine procured by the Centre is being supplied to regions with complete knowledge of the state governments.

"In the non-GoI channel, states are getting 25% of the doses and private hospitals are getting 25% doses. However the hiccups and issues faced by the people in the administration of these 25% doses by the states leave a lot to be desired," Paul said.

He also addressed the issue of compulsory licensing and stressed on the importance of active partnership rather than personal profits.

"Tech transfer is the key and that remains in the hands of the company that has carried out R&amp;D," he said. "Infact, we have gone one step ahead of Compulsory Licensing and are ensuring active partnership between Bharat Biotech &amp; 3 other entities to enhance production of Covaxin."

He also revealed that trials of vaccines for children will soon start in India.

However, the government will not start vaccination for children unless there are assured results of safety of specific guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), Paul said.

While social distancing and wearing face masks can protect us from the deadly coronavirus, vaccines act as a permanent shield against this virus. As the Government of India is busy arranging vaccines for everyone, some myths, based on distorted statements and blatant lies, have been spreading like wildfire.

While social distancing and wearing face masks can protect us from the deadly coronavirus, vaccines act as a permanent shield against this virus. As the Government of India is busy arranging vaccines for everyone, some myths, based on distorted statements and blatant lies, have been spreading like wildfire. Some people believe the central government has failed to procure enough vaccines from western countries. However, the government said it has been in successful discussions with all the major international vaccine manufacturers (such as Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson) since mid-2020, when companies started producing the vaccines. Also read | Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021 "We need to understand that buying vaccines internationally is not similar to buying 'off the shelf' items," explained Dr Vinod Paul, Member (Health) in NITI Aayog and Chair of the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC). "Vaccines are in limited supply globally, and companies have their own priorities, game-plans and compulsions in allocating finite stocks. They also give preference to countries of their origin just as our own vaccine makers have done unhesitatingly for us," Paul explained. Also read | Covid in India: Delhi to get Sputnik V vaccine, quantity to be decided, says Chief Minister Kejriwal The government said it has also successfully accelerated the approval and import process of Russia’s Sputnik vaccine and has been in continuous discussions with Pfizer to arrange the vaccines as soon as possible. India has also proactively eased the entry and approval process for the vaccines which have been approved by US FDA, EMA, UK's MHRA and Japan's PMDA, and WHO's Emergency Use Listing to ensure smooth import of vaccines into the country, the government said in a release. Also read | Our vaccine highly effective on COVID-19 variant found in India, suitable for 12 yrs and above: Pfizer to Govt New Delhi has also lent full support to domestic vaccine manufacturers such as Bharat Biotech, which will soon be increasing its production plants from one to four. Authorities are also in contact with the Serum Institute of India to increase its production of the Covishield vaccine from 6.5 crore doses per month to 11.0 crore doses per month. Talking about the vaccine distribution to states, Paul assured that the vaccine procured by the Centre is being supplied to regions with complete knowledge of the state governments. "In the non-GoI channel, states are getting 25% of the doses and private hospitals are getting 25% doses. However the hiccups and issues faced by the people in the administration of these 25% doses by the states leave a lot to be desired," Paul said. He also addressed the issue of compulsory licensing and stressed on the importance of active partnership rather than personal profits. "Tech transfer is the key and that remains in the hands of the company that has carried out R&D," he said. "Infact, we have gone one step ahead of Compulsory Licensing and are ensuring active partnership between Bharat Biotech & 3 other entities to enhance production of Covaxin." He also revealed that trials of vaccines for children will soon start in India. However, the government will not start vaccination for children unless there are assured results of safety of specific guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), Paul said.

'Transparency, reliability and swiftness': Indian government dispels myths about vaccines

As the world battles <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> and many struggle&nbsp;to get a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> against the deadly disease, some are busy plotting against some of the pharmaceutical companies offering the jabs.

Several social media influencers and bloggers in Europe have claimed they were contacted by a UK-based PR agency to spread rumours about the coronavirus vaccine developed by Pfizer-BioNTech.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-50-adult-population-fully-vaccinated-against-covid-19-387402">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-50-adult-population-fully-vaccinated-against-covid-19-387402/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The PR agency, which is said to have links with Russia, had been calling and asking several bloggers to post videos and links on TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram to discredit the Pfizer vaccine.

They were told to&nbsp;"explain … the death rate among the vaccinated with&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;is almost 3x higher than the vaccinated by AstraZeneca," the influencers claimed.

Influencers were instructed to question the motive of several governments who have been buying the Pfizer vaccine for the masses. The report claims that the mainstream media has been ignoring the facts and governments have been promoting vaccines for commercial and economical success.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-says-covid-vaccine-highly-effective-among-adolescents-aged-12-and-above-387313" hreflang="en">Moderna says Covid vaccine 'highly effective' among adolescents aged 12 and above</a>

The claim was substantiated by several bloggers and influencers who took to social media to prove that they had indeed been contacted for spreading fake rumours.

Mirko Drotschmann, a famous podcast host with millions of subscribers, shared a screenshot of the email he had received. He had been told it was an "information campaign"&nbsp;that would highlight the high number of deaths apparently caused by the Pfizer vaccine.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sehr interessant: Eine Agentur meldet sich und fragt, ob ich Teil einer „Informationskampagne“ sein will. Es geht darum, einen Link zu angeblich geleakten Dokumenten zu Todesfällen bei Corona-Impfungen zu teilen. Gegen Geld. Sitz der Agentur: London. Wohnort des CEO: Moskau. <a href="https://t.co/5x0Wqx79oZ">pic.twitter.com/5x0Wqx79oZ</a>
— Mirko Drotschmann (@MrWissen2Go) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrWissen2Go/status/1394716050596450312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The mail also asked the podcast host to "please send us statistics on the age of your subscribers … and how much it would cost".

Local media has reported that the PR agency, Fazze, was founded by a Russian entrepreneur and a lot of the management has Russian connections.

Meanwhile, the agency has disabled its website and has made its Instagram account private. Although the agency claims to be based in London, no such registered address was found.

As the world battles coronavirus and many struggle to get a vaccine against the deadly disease, some are busy plotting against some of the pharmaceutical companies offering the jabs.

As the world battles coronavirus and many struggle to get a vaccine against the deadly disease, some are busy plotting against some of the pharmaceutical companies offering the jabs. Several social media influencers and bloggers in Europe have claimed they were contacted by a UK-based PR agency to spread rumours about the coronavirus vaccine developed by Pfizer-BioNTech. WATCH | The PR agency, which is said to have links with Russia, had been calling and asking several bloggers to post videos and links on TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram to discredit the Pfizer vaccine. They were told to "explain … the death rate among the vaccinated with Pfizer is almost 3x higher than the vaccinated by AstraZeneca," the influencers claimed. Influencers were instructed to question the motive of several governments who have been buying the Pfizer vaccine for the masses. The report claims that the mainstream media has been ignoring the facts and governments have been promoting vaccines for commercial and economical success. Also read | Moderna says Covid vaccine 'highly effective' among adolescents aged 12 and above The claim was substantiated by several bloggers and influencers who took to social media to prove that they had indeed been contacted for spreading fake rumours. Mirko Drotschmann, a famous podcast host with millions of subscribers, shared a screenshot of the email he had received. He had been told it was an "information campaign" that would highlight the high number of deaths apparently caused by the Pfizer vaccine. Sehr interessant: Eine Agentur meldet sich und fragt, ob ich Teil einer „Informationskampagne“ sein will. Es geht darum, einen Link zu angeblich geleakten Dokumenten zu Todesfällen bei Corona-Impfungen zu teilen. Gegen Geld. Sitz der Agentur: London. Wohnort des CEO: Moskau. pic.twitter.com/5x0Wqx79oZ — Mirko Drotschmann (@MrWissen2Go) May 18, 2021 × The mail also asked the podcast host to "please send us statistics on the age of your subscribers … and how much it would cost". Local media has reported that the PR agency, Fazze, was founded by a Russian entrepreneur and a lot of the management has Russian connections. Meanwhile, the agency has disabled its website and has made its Instagram account private. Although the agency claims to be based in London, no such registered address was found.

Russia-linked agency hires influencers to spread fake news about Pfizer vaccine

Hungary's Roma community has been largely left out of the country's aggressive COVID-19 immunisation rollout and has been forced to fend for itself, leaders of the poverty-stricken minority say.

"No one else is looking after us, so we have to do it ourselves," said Jozsef Radics, 53, one of the organisers of the "Vaccines for Life!" campaign that aims to sign up Roma living in isolated communities for jabs.

Greeting local residents as they enter a ramshackle yard on the edge of Kistarcsa, a small town east of Budapest, Radics explains the registration process, sets up email addresses if needed and inputs their data into an official database.&nbsp;

ALso read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-donald-trump-sued-for-referring-to-covid-19-as-china-virus-386663" hreflang="en">Former US President Donald Trump sued for referring to COVID-19 as 'China virus'</a>

"These people are disadvantaged in many ways, including lacking information and access to the internet, which makes them particularly vulnerable to the virus," the Roma activist told AFP.

Anti-vaccine sentiment

Often blamed for petty crime, the Roma — who make up around seven percent of Hungary's population of 9.8 million — face widespread poverty and exclusion from mainstream Hungarian society and sometimes racially-motivated violence.

Many live in one of around 1,300 mostly-Roma settlements on the edge of villages and towns like Kistarcsa that house approximately 200,000 people, according to official data. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cognitive-warfare-taiwan-says-china-is-spreading-vile-fake-news-about-covid-19-386661" hreflang="en">Cognitive warfare? Taiwan says China is spreading 'vile fake news' about COVID-19</a>

Radics told AFP that some 13,500 settlement dwellers have registered for the jab so far thanks to the campaign.&nbsp;

"There's a long way to go. We look for local leaders in each community to continue the project once we leave to go to another settlement," he said.

The campaign also produced videos made for sharing on social media that feature Roma celebrities like rappers to appeal to younger age-groups, as well as singers who are trusted by older people.

"The government's vaccination promotion billboards only feature white faces, so the videos provide strong Roma voices to counter the anti-vaccination voices that are common in places like this," Radics said.

Trained by health workers, the activists are armed with answers to typical questions about the side-effects and effectiveness of jabs, as well as how to deal with aggressive anti-vaccine sentiment.&nbsp;

"We don't try to convince anyone, just to give them information," said Radics's activist colleague Fruzsina Balogh, adding that conspiracy theories around vaccines have deterred many Roma. &nbsp; &nbsp;

A COVID-19-themed Egyptian hieroglyphic-style meme that "went viral" and was also widely shared in Roma communities claimed that the jab brainwashed people into becoming "slaves".&nbsp;

Another widely-circulated rumour claimed that vaccines are a plot by US tech billionaire Bill Gates to implant chips in brains, according to Balogh.

"Willingness to get vaccinated is much higher in settlements where the death rate was higher," she said.

'We exist'

Although statistics on COVID-19-related deaths in the settlements are not available, a virus outbreak in a Roma area can spread quickly, Balogh said.&nbsp;

"In many houses there are no public utilities, even water, so people are forced to share a communal facility," she said, pointing to a blue pump at the end of a dusty unpaved street in Kistarcsa. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Many families with three or four children also live in cramped houses. If someone gets infected it is impossible to separate them, so everyone gets sick," said Balogh, 27, who lost her 28-year-old ex-partner to COVID-19 last year.

With more than 4.8 million Hungarians already having received a first vaccine dose, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government began relaxing restrictions last month.&nbsp;

But access to many businesses and workplaces now hinges on showing proof of vaccination.

Hungarian officials did not respond to an AFP request on whether the government had any plans to encourage Roma to get vaccinated, or state support specifically aimed at helping the Roma community during the pandemic.

"I want to get the vaccine to find a job more easily and to get back my freedom, for example to take my children to an ice cream shop," Adrienn Tejfel, a 36-year-old mother, told AFP after registering in Kistarcsa.

While packing up on a recent day before moving on to another town, Radics told AFP that his team would help non-Roma register too if needed, but that the campaign at least aims to show "the rest of society that we exist".

Hungary's Roma community has been largely left out of the country's aggressive COVID-19 immunisation rollout and has been forced to fend for itself, leaders of the poverty-stricken minority say.

Hungary's Roma community has been largely left out of the country's aggressive COVID-19 immunisation rollout and has been forced to fend for itself, leaders of the poverty-stricken minority say. "No one else is looking after us, so we have to do it ourselves," said Jozsef Radics, 53, one of the organisers of the "Vaccines for Life!" campaign that aims to sign up Roma living in isolated communities for jabs. Greeting local residents as they enter a ramshackle yard on the edge of Kistarcsa, a small town east of Budapest, Radics explains the registration process, sets up email addresses if needed and inputs their data into an official database. ALso read | Former US President Donald Trump sued for referring to COVID-19 as 'China virus' "These people are disadvantaged in many ways, including lacking information and access to the internet, which makes them particularly vulnerable to the virus," the Roma activist told AFP. Anti-vaccine sentiment Often blamed for petty crime, the Roma — who make up around seven percent of Hungary's population of 9.8 million — face widespread poverty and exclusion from mainstream Hungarian society and sometimes racially-motivated violence. Many live in one of around 1,300 mostly-Roma settlements on the edge of villages and towns like Kistarcsa that house approximately 200,000 people, according to official data. Also read | Cognitive warfare? Taiwan says China is spreading 'vile fake news' about COVID-19 Radics told AFP that some 13,500 settlement dwellers have registered for the jab so far thanks to the campaign. "There's a long way to go. We look for local leaders in each community to continue the project once we leave to go to another settlement," he said. The campaign also produced videos made for sharing on social media that feature Roma celebrities like rappers to appeal to younger age-groups, as well as singers who are trusted by older people. "The government's vaccination promotion billboards only feature white faces, so the videos provide strong Roma voices to counter the anti-vaccination voices that are common in places like this," Radics said. Trained by health workers, the activists are armed with answers to typical questions about the side-effects and effectiveness of jabs, as well as how to deal with aggressive anti-vaccine sentiment. "We don't try to convince anyone, just to give them information," said Radics's activist colleague Fruzsina Balogh, adding that conspiracy theories around vaccines have deterred many Roma. A COVID-19-themed Egyptian hieroglyphic-style meme that "went viral" and was also widely shared in Roma communities claimed that the jab brainwashed people into becoming "slaves". Another widely-circulated rumour claimed that vaccines are a plot by US tech billionaire Bill Gates to implant chips in brains, according to Balogh. "Willingness to get vaccinated is much higher in settlements where the death rate was higher," she said. 'We exist' Although statistics on COVID-19-related deaths in the settlements are not available, a virus outbreak in a Roma area can spread quickly, Balogh said. "In many houses there are no public utilities, even water, so people are forced to share a communal facility," she said, pointing to a blue pump at the end of a dusty unpaved street in Kistarcsa. "Many families with three or four children also live in cramped houses. If someone gets infected it is impossible to separate them, so everyone gets sick," said Balogh, 27, who lost her 28-year-old ex-partner to COVID-19 last year. With more than 4.8 million Hungarians already having received a first vaccine dose, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government began relaxing restrictions last month. But access to many businesses and workplaces now hinges on showing proof of vaccination. Hungarian officials did not respond to an AFP request on whether the government had any plans to encourage Roma to get vaccinated, or state support specifically aimed at helping the Roma community during the pandemic. "I want to get the vaccine to find a job more easily and to get back my freedom, for example to take my children to an ice cream shop," Adrienn Tejfel, a 36-year-old mother, told AFP after registering in Kistarcsa. While packing up on a recent day before moving on to another town, Radics told AFP that his team would help non-Roma register too if needed, but that the campaign at least aims to show "the rest of society that we exist".

Hungary's Roma battle Covid on their own

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

Unvaccinated Republican lawmakers pose a danger to other members of Congress and staff, US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Thursday as she attacked the "selfishness" of colleagues who refuse to protect against Covid-19.

The top congressional Democrat's criticism of opponents as a health "dangerment" comes as a debate swells over Capitol Hill mask mandates, which Republicans have demanded be lifted as the Biden administration eases its guidance on face coverings.

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>

"It is unfortunate that a large number of people in the Congress have refused to be vaccinated... or have been vaccinated and don't want to admit it," Pelosi said, noting that Congress's attending physician intends to keep the mask rule in place until all lawmakers get the jab.

"We have a responsibility to make sure that the House of Representatives chamber is not a petri dish because of the selfishness of some not to be vaccinated," Pelosi said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-astrazeneca-shots-could-be-85-90-effective-uk-data-suggests-386500" hreflang="en">Two AstraZeneca shots could be 85-90% effective, UK data suggests</a>

The biting remarks come days after CNN released a survey of lawmakers that showed a 100 per cent vaccination rate among Democrats in the Senate and House of Representatives, but dramatically lower numbers for Republicans.

Of the House Republicans, just 95 of the conference's 212 members — or 44.8 per cent — told the network they are vaccinated.&nbsp;

An exasperated Pelosi told reporters that committee meetings and other gatherings in Congress will not be able to return to maskless normality until all lawmakers are vaccinated.

"What is this, the honor system... as to whether somebody's been vaccinated?" she said. "Do you want them breathing in your face on the strength of their honor?"

Pelosi has clashed over masks with the chamber's top Republican Kevin McCarthy, who introduced a resolution that would allow lawmakers to be maskless on the House floor.

House Democrats killed the measure.

Some lawmakers have grown openly defiant. Republican Brian Mast said Tuesday he was fined $500 for refusing to wear a mask on the House floor.

Pelosi announced such punishments for mask violations in January.

"This is nothing more than political theatre," House Republican Ralph Norman tweeted Thursday. "All over the Capitol complex, staff and members are maskless. It is time for @SpeakerPelosi to drop the charade."

A recent Morning Consult poll found that unvaccinated Americans are about twice as likely as vaccinated people to say they are comfortable not wearing masks while doing activities like attending a work conference.

Unvaccinated Republican lawmakers pose a danger to other members of Congress and staff, US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Thursday as she attacked the "selfishness" of colleagues who refuse to protect against Covid-19.

Unvaccinated Republican lawmakers pose a danger to other members of Congress and staff, US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Thursday as she attacked the "selfishness" of colleagues who refuse to protect against Covid-19. The top congressional Democrat's criticism of opponents as a health "dangerment" comes as a debate swells over Capitol Hill mask mandates, which Republicans have demanded be lifted as the Biden administration eases its guidance on face coverings. Also read | Fauci expects COVID-19 vaccines for kids in late 2021, sees need for booster shot "It is unfortunate that a large number of people in the Congress have refused to be vaccinated... or have been vaccinated and don't want to admit it," Pelosi said, noting that Congress's attending physician intends to keep the mask rule in place until all lawmakers get the jab. "We have a responsibility to make sure that the House of Representatives chamber is not a petri dish because of the selfishness of some not to be vaccinated," Pelosi said. Also read | Two AstraZeneca shots could be 85-90% effective, UK data suggests The biting remarks come days after CNN released a survey of lawmakers that showed a 100 per cent vaccination rate among Democrats in the Senate and House of Representatives, but dramatically lower numbers for Republicans. Of the House Republicans, just 95 of the conference's 212 members — or 44.8 per cent — told the network they are vaccinated. An exasperated Pelosi told reporters that committee meetings and other gatherings in Congress will not be able to return to maskless normality until all lawmakers are vaccinated. "What is this, the honor system... as to whether somebody's been vaccinated?" she said. "Do you want them breathing in your face on the strength of their honor?" Pelosi has clashed over masks with the chamber's top Republican Kevin McCarthy, who introduced a resolution that would allow lawmakers to be maskless on the House floor. House Democrats killed the measure. Some lawmakers have grown openly defiant. Republican Brian Mast said Tuesday he was fined $500 for refusing to wear a mask on the House floor. Pelosi announced such punishments for mask violations in January. "This is nothing more than political theatre," House Republican Ralph Norman tweeted Thursday. "All over the Capitol complex, staff and members are maskless. It is time for @SpeakerPelosi to drop the charade." A recent Morning Consult poll found that unvaccinated Americans are about twice as likely as vaccinated people to say they are comfortable not wearing masks while doing activities like attending a work conference.

Unvaccinated US lawmakers a danger to Congress, Pelosi says

Kids in the United States will likely be able to get <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccinations</a> by the end of this year or the first quarter of 2022, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, said at an event on Wednesday.

The United States earlier this month cleared the way for the use of the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer Inc (PFE.N) and partner BioNTech SE in adolescents aged 12 and above.

Fauci also noted the need for a COVID-19 booster shot within a year or so after getting the primary shot.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-patent-waiver-will-not-be-enough-to-bridge-supply-gap-wto-386296" hreflang="en">COVID-19 vaccine patent waiver will not be enough to bridge supply gap: WTO</a>

"I think we will almost certainly require a booster sometime within a year or so after getting the primary because the durability protection against coronavirus is generally not lifelong similar to measles," he said.

Pfizer Chief Executive Officer Albert Bourla at the event said there is likely a need for booster shots between 8-12 months. In April, Bourla told CNBC people will "likely" need a third booster dose of COVID-19 vaccines within 12 months.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-covid-19-virus-variants-respond-to-approved-vaccines-who-386258" hreflang="en">All COVID-19 virus variants respond to approved vaccines: WHO</a>

Scientists, however, are questioning the need for COVID-19 booster shots due to a lack of data to make an informed decision.

There has been significant headway in ensuring vaccine equity, Fauci added, highlighting that the shots should be available in geographic locations easily accessible to minorities as a lesson for the next pandemic.

Kids in the United States will likely be able to get COVID-19 vaccinations by the end of this year or the first quarter of 2022, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, said at an event on Wednesday.

Kids in the United States will likely be able to get COVID-19 vaccinations by the end of this year or the first quarter of 2022, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, said at an event on Wednesday. The United States earlier this month cleared the way for the use of the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer Inc (PFE.N) and partner BioNTech SE in adolescents aged 12 and above. Fauci also noted the need for a COVID-19 booster shot within a year or so after getting the primary shot. Also read | COVID-19 vaccine patent waiver will not be enough to bridge supply gap: WTO "I think we will almost certainly require a booster sometime within a year or so after getting the primary because the durability protection against coronavirus is generally not lifelong similar to measles," he said. Pfizer Chief Executive Officer Albert Bourla at the event said there is likely a need for booster shots between 8-12 months. In April, Bourla told CNBC people will "likely" need a third booster dose of COVID-19 vaccines within 12 months. Also read | All COVID-19 virus variants respond to approved vaccines: WHO Scientists, however, are questioning the need for COVID-19 booster shots due to a lack of data to make an informed decision. There has been significant headway in ensuring vaccine equity, Fauci added, highlighting that the shots should be available in geographic locations easily accessible to minorities as a lesson for the next pandemic.

Fauci expects COVID-19 vaccines for kids in late 2021, sees need for booster shot

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who had received the first jab of COVID-19 vaccination last month, on Sunday took the second dose of the vaccine. 
 
Big B took to his Instagram handle and shared a picture from the vaccination centre, where he could be seen getting the jab for the second time. He captioned the post as, "Doosra bhi ho gaya. Covid wala, Cricket wala nahi. sorry sorry that was really bad one."

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In the photo, Bachchan could be seen wearing a green T-Shirt and black track pants paired along with a black mask and a bandana on his head. 
 
The second wave of coronavirus has infected many people, and the number of COVID-19 positive cases has been rapidly rising. In Bollywood also, an array of celebrities like Kangana Ranaut, Aamir Khan, Vicky Kaushal, among others got infected within a span of a few weeks. 
 
Meanwhile, on the work front, Amitabh Bachchan was recently cast for the Indian adaptation of `The Intern` opposite Deepika Padukone. Apart from that, he has films like `Jhund`, `Brahmastra`, `Goodbye`, `May Day` and several others in the pipeline.&nbsp;

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who had received the first jab of COVID-19 vaccination last month, on Sunday took the second dose of the vaccine. Big B took to his Instagram handle and shared a picture from the vaccination centre, where he could be seen getting the jab for the second time.

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who had received the first jab of COVID-19 vaccination last month, on Sunday took the second dose of the vaccine. Big B took to his Instagram handle and shared a picture from the vaccination centre, where he could be seen getting the jab for the second time. He captioned the post as, "Doosra bhi ho gaya. Covid wala, Cricket wala nahi. sorry sorry that was really bad one." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amitabh Bachchan (@amitabhbachchan) × In the photo, Bachchan could be seen wearing a green T-Shirt and black track pants paired along with a black mask and a bandana on his head. The second wave of coronavirus has infected many people, and the number of COVID-19 positive cases has been rapidly rising. In Bollywood also, an array of celebrities like Kangana Ranaut, Aamir Khan, Vicky Kaushal, among others got infected within a span of a few weeks. Meanwhile, on the work front, Amitabh Bachchan was recently cast for the Indian adaptation of `The Intern` opposite Deepika Padukone. Apart from that, he has films like `Jhund`, `Brahmastra`, `Goodbye`, `May Day` and several others in the pipeline.

Amitabh Bachchan receives second dose of COVID-19 vaccine

US&nbsp;Trade&nbsp;Representative Katherine&nbsp;Tai&nbsp;said on Thursday that World&nbsp;Trade&nbsp;Organization negotiations over intellectual property&nbsp;waivers for COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines are a&nbsp;chance&nbsp;for the deeply divided&nbsp;trade&nbsp;body to make&nbsp;itself relevant to the world's needs.

Tai, speaking to the House Ways and Means Committee, said she was committed to entering negotiations that take into account concerns from all sides, including drug companies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccine-makers-oppose-ip-waiver-say-manufacturing-hurdles-slowing-rollout-379755">Vaccine makers oppose IP waiver, say manufacturing hurdles slowing rollout</a>

"The&nbsp;WTO&nbsp;has not got a record of moving quickly, or getting to yes, across 164 members who must all agree, very often,"&nbsp;Tai&nbsp;said. "This is the opportunity for the&nbsp;WTO&nbsp;to&nbsp;show&nbsp;its&nbsp;relevance&nbsp;for mankind."

For the second day in a row,&nbsp;Tai&nbsp;heard criticism from Republican lawmakers that the intellectual property rights&nbsp;waiver&nbsp;will give critical biopharmaceutical technology to China, Russia and other strategic rivals while failing to increase&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;supplies.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-warns-of-vaccine-apartheid-if-rich-countries-hog-shots-384074">South Africa warns of 'vaccine apartheid' if rich countries hog shots</a>

Republican Representative Devin Nunes told&nbsp;Tai&nbsp;that he is concerned China is one of the few countries that could quickly manufacture messenger RNA&nbsp;vaccines, a technology partly developed with&nbsp;US&nbsp;tax dollars.

"It really seems like they (China) want to steal this very new technology, especially as it relates to the Moderna and Pfizer&nbsp;vaccines."

Tai&nbsp;said the administration was working to exercise leadership on the issue to try to reach a solution that saves lives and puts&nbsp;the world back on a faster growth track, which will benefit the United States.

India and South Africa, the proponents of the original, much broader proposal are expressing "that they feel extremely vulnerable in not having access to&nbsp;vaccines and not being able to make them either,"&nbsp;Tai&nbsp;said.

On Wednesday,&nbsp;Tai&nbsp;told a Senate hearing that companies making&nbsp;vaccines could be "a hero" by helping the world gain increased access to COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines.

She declined to discuss&nbsp;details of her consultations with drug companies before announcing the decision to join&nbsp;WTO&nbsp;waiver&nbsp;negotiations last week but said that some are driven by more than their obligations to shareholders.

"Some of them do see themselves as important actors in the public health ecosystem in the world."

Tai&nbsp;said that the intellectual property&nbsp;waiver&nbsp;was just one of a number of actions that would be required to increase manufacturing and equitable distribution of&nbsp;vaccines around the world.

US Trade Representative Katherine Tai said on Thursday that World Trade Organization negotiations over intellectual property waivers for COVID-19 vaccines are a chance for the deeply divided trade body to make itself relevant to the world's needs.

US Trade Representative Katherine Tai said on Thursday that World Trade Organization negotiations over intellectual property waivers for COVID-19 vaccines are a chance for the deeply divided trade body to make itself relevant to the world's needs. Tai, speaking to the House Ways and Means Committee, said she was committed to entering negotiations that take into account concerns from all sides, including drug companies. Also read | Vaccine makers oppose IP waiver, say manufacturing hurdles slowing rollout "The WTO has not got a record of moving quickly, or getting to yes, across 164 members who must all agree, very often," Tai said. "This is the opportunity for the WTO to show its relevance for mankind." For the second day in a row, Tai heard criticism from Republican lawmakers that the intellectual property rights waiver will give critical biopharmaceutical technology to China, Russia and other strategic rivals while failing to increase vaccine supplies. Also read | South Africa warns of 'vaccine apartheid' if rich countries hog shots Republican Representative Devin Nunes told Tai that he is concerned China is one of the few countries that could quickly manufacture messenger RNA vaccines, a technology partly developed with US tax dollars. "It really seems like they (China) want to steal this very new technology, especially as it relates to the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines." Tai said the administration was working to exercise leadership on the issue to try to reach a solution that saves lives and puts the world back on a faster growth track, which will benefit the United States. India and South Africa, the proponents of the original, much broader proposal are expressing "that they feel extremely vulnerable in not having access to vaccines and not being able to make them either," Tai said. On Wednesday, Tai told a Senate hearing that companies making vaccines could be "a hero" by helping the world gain increased access to COVID-19 vaccines. She declined to discuss details of her consultations with drug companies before announcing the decision to join WTO waiver negotiations last week but said that some are driven by more than their obligations to shareholders. "Some of them do see themselves as important actors in the public health ecosystem in the world." Tai said that the intellectual property waiver was just one of a number of actions that would be required to increase manufacturing and equitable distribution of vaccines around the world.

Vaccine waiver talks a chance for WTO to show its relevance: US trade chief Tai

France reached its target of injecting 20 million initial doses of coronavirus vaccines on Saturday, days ahead of a hugely anticipated reopening of restaurant terraces as the government begins lifting a nationwide lockdown.

President Emmanuel Macron announced the milestone in a tweet that said "20 million" with a green checkmark, a number that represents around 30 percent of the population.

Nearly nine million have had a second vaccine dose as well.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/being-tech-savvy-has-health-benefits-for-older-people-study-385254" hreflang="en">Being tech savvy has health benefits for older people: Study</a>

"It's a very important moment for the entire country, because it supports our prospects for ending this crisis," Prime Minister Jean Castex told journalists while visiting the mass vaccination site at the Porte de Versailles conference centre in Paris.

The government aims to have 30 million initial doses injected by June 15, when Macron has said all adults will be able to sign up for a jab currently reserved for priority groups and adults over 50.

"It's within reach," Castex said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-raises-state-of-emergency-as-covid-worsens-ahead-of-tokyo-olympics-385242" hreflang="en">Japan raises state of emergency as covid worsens ahead of Tokyo Olympics</a>

Authorities also reported further declines in the number of patients requiring intensive care in hospitals.

The number of people in intensive care stood at 4,352 on Friday, a decline of 90 from the previous day and well below the peak of 6,001 during the "third wave" of infections that battered France starting in March.

On Wednesday, museums, theatres, cinemas and concert halls will reopen with limited capacity after six weeks of closure to halt the pandemic, and the nationwide curfew will be pushed back to 9:00 pm (1900 GMT) from 7 pm.

Non-essential shops will also reopen and outdoor seating at cafes and restaurants will be allowed for the first time since October 30.

Cafes and restaurants will be able to serve clients indoors on June 9, and the curfew will be fully lifted on June 30 if infection rates continue to decline.

France reached its target of injecting 20 million initial doses of coronavirus vaccines on Saturday, days ahead of a hugely anticipated reopening of restaurant terraces as the government begins lifting a nationwide lockdown.

France reached its target of injecting 20 million initial doses of coronavirus vaccines on Saturday, days ahead of a hugely anticipated reopening of restaurant terraces as the government begins lifting a nationwide lockdown. President Emmanuel Macron announced the milestone in a tweet that said "20 million" with a green checkmark, a number that represents around 30 percent of the population. Nearly nine million have had a second vaccine dose as well. Also read | Being tech savvy has health benefits for older people: Study "It's a very important moment for the entire country, because it supports our prospects for ending this crisis," Prime Minister Jean Castex told journalists while visiting the mass vaccination site at the Porte de Versailles conference centre in Paris. The government aims to have 30 million initial doses injected by June 15, when Macron has said all adults will be able to sign up for a jab currently reserved for priority groups and adults over 50. "It's within reach," Castex said. Also read | Japan raises state of emergency as covid worsens ahead of Tokyo Olympics Authorities also reported further declines in the number of patients requiring intensive care in hospitals. The number of people in intensive care stood at 4,352 on Friday, a decline of 90 from the previous day and well below the peak of 6,001 during the "third wave" of infections that battered France starting in March. On Wednesday, museums, theatres, cinemas and concert halls will reopen with limited capacity after six weeks of closure to halt the pandemic, and the nationwide curfew will be pushed back to 9:00 pm (1900 GMT) from 7 pm. Non-essential shops will also reopen and outdoor seating at cafes and restaurants will be allowed for the first time since October 30. Cafes and restaurants will be able to serve clients indoors on June 9, and the curfew will be fully lifted on June 30 if infection rates continue to decline.

France hits 20 million milestone in Covid vaccination drive

The WHO chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has warned the world that the second year of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">pandemic</a> will be deadlier than the first one.

"In January, I spoke about the potential unfolding of a moral catastrophe," Tedros said in a press conference. "Unfortunately, we're now witnessing this play out. In a handful of rich countries, which bought up the majority of the supply, lower-risk groups are now being vaccinated."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/extended-gap-between-two-doses-of-covishield-reasonable-approach-says-anthony-fauci-384926" hreflang="en">Extended gap between two doses of Covishield reasonable approach, says Anthony Fauci</a>

He has also urged countries to stop <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinating</a> children against the deadly coronavirus and instead donate those doses to poor countries.

"I understand why some countries want to vaccinate their children and adolescents, but right now I urge them to reconsider and to instead donate vaccines to Covax," he said. "Because in low and lower-middle income countries, COVID-19 vaccine supply has not been enough to even immunise healthcare workers, and hospitals are being inundated with people that need lifesaving care urgently."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-firm-may-have-lied-about-tests-of-its-covid-19-drug-384904" hreflang="en">Chinese firm may have lied about tests of its COVID-19 drug</a>

The virus has taken more than 3.3 million lives till now, but the WHO chief has warned that the situation is about to get worse.

"We're on track for the second year of this pandemic to be far more deadly than the first," he said. "Saving lives and livelihoods with a combination of public health measures and vaccination — not one or the other — is the only way out."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-covid-19-caseload-tops-1608-million-384907" hreflang="en">Global COVID-19 caseload tops 160.8 million</a>

This has come as the 56-year-old got vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus earlier this week in Geneva, where WHO headquarters are based.

Calling it a 'bittersweet moment', he said, "the fact that so many are still not protected is a sad reflection on the gross distortion in access to vaccines across the globe".

The WHO chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has warned the world that the second year of the pandemic will be deadlier than the first one. "In January, I spoke about the potential unfolding of a moral catastrophe," Tedros said in a press conference.

The WHO chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has warned the world that the second year of the pandemic will be deadlier than the first one. "In January, I spoke about the potential unfolding of a moral catastrophe," Tedros said in a press conference. "Unfortunately, we're now witnessing this play out. In a handful of rich countries, which bought up the majority of the supply, lower-risk groups are now being vaccinated." Also read | Extended gap between two doses of Covishield reasonable approach, says Anthony Fauci He has also urged countries to stop vaccinating children against the deadly coronavirus and instead donate those doses to poor countries. "I understand why some countries want to vaccinate their children and adolescents, but right now I urge them to reconsider and to instead donate vaccines to Covax," he said. "Because in low and lower-middle income countries, COVID-19 vaccine supply has not been enough to even immunise healthcare workers, and hospitals are being inundated with people that need lifesaving care urgently." Also read | Chinese firm may have lied about tests of its COVID-19 drug The virus has taken more than 3.3 million lives till now, but the WHO chief has warned that the situation is about to get worse. "We're on track for the second year of this pandemic to be far more deadly than the first," he said. "Saving lives and livelihoods with a combination of public health measures and vaccination — not one or the other — is the only way out." Also read | Global COVID-19 caseload tops 160.8 million This has come as the 56-year-old got vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus earlier this week in Geneva, where WHO headquarters are based. Calling it a 'bittersweet moment', he said, "the fact that so many are still not protected is a sad reflection on the gross distortion in access to vaccines across the globe".

'Reconsider vaccinating children, donate to Covax,' says WHO chief as he warns against 'deadliest year'

The US&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday it had found more cases of potentially life-threatening blood clotting among people who received the Johnson &amp; Johnson COVID-19 vaccine and sees a "plausible causal association".

The CDC said in a presentation the agency has now identified 28 cases of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) among the more than 8.7 million people who had received the J&amp;J vaccine. TTS involves blood clots accompanied by a low level of platelets - the cells in the blood that help it to clot.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-turning-a-corner-on-pandemic-says-white-house-coordinator-384020" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-turning-a-corner-on-pandemic-says-white-house-coordinator-384020&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzqsH-hsbwAhUb73MBHd0VAUQQFjACegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3uUoEIvRjC4YmtKZHS4-gu" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-turning-a-corner-on-pandemic-says-white-house-coordinator-384020" target="_blank">US turning a corner on pandemic, says White House coordinator</a>

So far, three of the 28 have died. Previously, as of April 25, the CDC had reported 17 cases of clotting among nearly 8 million people given vaccines.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices or ACIP, which advises the U.S. CDC, recommended on April 23 that the U.S. lift a 10-day pause on the J&amp;J vaccinations imposed to review safety data on the clotting issue. The panel will review the new data later on Wednesday.

The CDC said on Wednesday the events appear similar to what is being observed following administration of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in Europe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ray-of-hope-cdc-predicts-us-covid-cases-could-see-sharp-decline-in-july-383167">Ray of hope: CDC predicts US covid cases could see sharp decline in July</a>

Both vaccines are based on technology that uses adenoviruses, which can cause the common cold, as vectors. The modified viruses are used to carry DNA instructions into the body to make specific coronavirus proteins, priming the immune system to make antibodies that fight off the actual coronavirus.

Scientists are working to find the potential mechanism that would explain the blood clots. A leading hypothesis appears to be that the vaccines are triggering a rare immune response that could be related to these viral vectors.

The syndrome does not appear to be associated with either of the COVID-19 vaccines produce by Pfizer Inc and BioNTech SA or Moderna Inc.

Most of the cases were among women aged 18 to 49, the CDC said, with rates among women aged 30-39 at 12.4 cases per million and those aged 40-49 at 9.4 cases per million.

Only six of the clotting events identified were in men.

Symptoms typically occur several days after vaccination to up to 2 weeks.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday it had found more cases of potentially life-threatening blood clotting among people who received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine and sees a "plausible causal association".

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday it had found more cases of potentially life-threatening blood clotting among people who received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine and sees a "plausible causal association". The CDC said in a presentation the agency has now identified 28 cases of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) among the more than 8.7 million people who had received the J&J vaccine. TTS involves blood clots accompanied by a low level of platelets - the cells in the blood that help it to clot. Also read | US turning a corner on pandemic, says White House coordinator So far, three of the 28 have died. Previously, as of April 25, the CDC had reported 17 cases of clotting among nearly 8 million people given vaccines. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices or ACIP, which advises the U.S. CDC, recommended on April 23 that the U.S. lift a 10-day pause on the J&J vaccinations imposed to review safety data on the clotting issue. The panel will review the new data later on Wednesday. The CDC said on Wednesday the events appear similar to what is being observed following administration of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in Europe. Also read | Ray of hope: CDC predicts US covid cases could see sharp decline in July Both vaccines are based on technology that uses adenoviruses, which can cause the common cold, as vectors. The modified viruses are used to carry DNA instructions into the body to make specific coronavirus proteins, priming the immune system to make antibodies that fight off the actual coronavirus. Scientists are working to find the potential mechanism that would explain the blood clots. A leading hypothesis appears to be that the vaccines are triggering a rare immune response that could be related to these viral vectors. The syndrome does not appear to be associated with either of the COVID-19 vaccines produce by Pfizer Inc and BioNTech SA or Moderna Inc. Most of the cases were among women aged 18 to 49, the CDC said, with rates among women aged 30-39 at 12.4 cases per million and those aged 40-49 at 9.4 cases per million. Only six of the clotting events identified were in men. Symptoms typically occur several days after vaccination to up to 2 weeks.

US CDC finds more clotting cases after J&J vaccine, sees causal link

A modelling study has advised delaying the second dose of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a> to save more lives, similar to the UK’s plan.

Initially, the scientists had developed the vaccines (Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca) in such a way that the second shot was advised to be administered within three to four weeks of the first dose.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-offering-a-fat-bonus-to-its-ceo-sets-the-wrong-tone-for-astrazeneca-384620" hreflang="en">Why offering a fat bonus to its CEO sets the wrong tone for AstraZeneca</a>

However, the UK decided to opt for a 12-week gap between the two doses to make sure more people are administered with at least the first shot quickly. Studying the same model, researchers have reported that the immunological evidence proves more protection from the first dose.

The UK’s model has also shown that there have been comparatively fewer infections of covid in people who were administered with the first dose of AstraZeneca and Pfizer coronavirus vaccines. Similarly, Pfizer and Moderna provide nearly 80 per cent protection after the first dose.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/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>

This study was conducted by scientists at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester who examined&nbsp;models of the UK and other countries that have delayed the second shot due to a shortage of vaccines.

As per their research, delaying the second dose and getting more people vaccinated with the first shot is more advisable as it could save more lives.

This is specifically important for people under the age of 65. The vaccine efficacy is nearly 80 per cent and less than 0.3 per cent of the population is vaccinated with the first dose in a day.

“A delayed second dose vaccination strategy, at least for people aged under 65, could result in reduced cumulative mortality under certain conditions,” the report read.

A modelling study has advised delaying the second dose of coronavirus vaccine to save more lives, similar to the UK’s plan. Initially, the scientists had developed the vaccines (Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca) in such a way that the second shot was advised to be administered within three to four weeks of the first dose.

A modelling study has advised delaying the second dose of coronavirus vaccine to save more lives, similar to the UK’s plan. Initially, the scientists had developed the vaccines (Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca) in such a way that the second shot was advised to be administered within three to four weeks of the first dose. Also read | Why offering a fat bonus to its CEO sets the wrong tone for AstraZeneca However, the UK decided to opt for a 12-week gap between the two doses to make sure more people are administered with at least the first shot quickly. Studying the same model, researchers have reported that the immunological evidence proves more protection from the first dose. The UK’s model has also shown that there have been comparatively fewer infections of covid in people who were administered with the first dose of AstraZeneca and Pfizer coronavirus vaccines. Similarly, Pfizer and Moderna provide nearly 80 per cent protection after the first dose. Also read | COVID-19: Canada's largest province halts AstraZeneca first doses over blood clot This study was conducted by scientists at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester who examined models of the UK and other countries that have delayed the second shot due to a shortage of vaccines. As per their research, delaying the second dose and getting more people vaccinated with the first shot is more advisable as it could save more lives. This is specifically important for people under the age of 65. The vaccine efficacy is nearly 80 per cent and less than 0.3 per cent of the population is vaccinated with the first dose in a day. “A delayed second dose vaccination strategy, at least for people aged under 65, could result in reduced cumulative mortality under certain conditions,” the report read.

Delaying second doses of Covid vaccines can save more lives: Study

Pregnant women have been hesitant about getting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a> against the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;as medical experts were not sure if it would be safe for pregnant women to be administered with a jab.

However, now UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has announced that pregnant women can be administered with a jab of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-delay-pregnancies-brazil-urges-local-women-amid-coronavirus-surge-378199" hreflang="en">'Please delay pregnancies', Brazil urges local women amid coronavirus surge</a>

This has been reported after experts studied real-world data that showed that more than 90,000 pregnant women have been vaccinated against the virus in the US.

The new guidance now states that all women who are trying to conceive, recently had a baby or are breastfeeding can be vaccinated, but depending on their age group and their medical history.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-does-not-infect-brain-but-still-inflicts-damage-378157" hreflang="en">'Covid does not infect brain but still inflicts damage'&nbsp;</a>

However, experts are still stressing that women consult their doctors before getting administered with the jab.

Although there is no medical drawback of the jab on pregnant women, as of now, health experts are urging pregnant women to be frank and truthful to the doctors about their medical history before getting the jab.

Pregnant women have been hesitant about getting vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as medical experts were not sure if it would be safe for pregnant women to be administered with a jab.

Pregnant women have been hesitant about getting vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as medical experts were not sure if it would be safe for pregnant women to be administered with a jab. However, now UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has announced that pregnant women can be administered with a jab of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. Also read | 'Please delay pregnancies', Brazil urges local women amid coronavirus surge This has been reported after experts studied real-world data that showed that more than 90,000 pregnant women have been vaccinated against the virus in the US. The new guidance now states that all women who are trying to conceive, recently had a baby or are breastfeeding can be vaccinated, but depending on their age group and their medical history. Also read | 'Covid does not infect brain but still inflicts damage' However, experts are still stressing that women consult their doctors before getting administered with the jab. Although there is no medical drawback of the jab on pregnant women, as of now, health experts are urging pregnant women to be frank and truthful to the doctors about their medical history before getting the jab.

Pregnant women can be given Pfizer and Moderna coronavirus vaccines: UK advisory group

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>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-is-black-fungus-or-mucormycosis-384376/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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

As the United States is increasing its pace of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination programmes</a> every day, fast food chain McDonald’s and cab services (Uber and Lyft) have decided to reach out to people who are hesitant about getting vaccinated.

On Tuesday, the US President, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>, announced a partnership between the White House and cab services Lyft and Uber. The two companies will be offering free rides to customers headed to a vaccination site to get vaccinated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-pfizer-biontechs-covid-vaccine-for-children-aged-12-15-384195" hreflang="en">US approves Pfizer-BioNTech's Covid vaccine for children aged 12-15</a>

“People will be able to simply select a vaccination site near them, follow simple directions to redeem their ride, and then get a ride to take them to and from a nearby vaccination site free of charge,” the White House said in a statement.

This promotion scheme will begin in the next weeks in the US and will continue until the end of the Fourth of July holiday in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/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>

Not just cab services, the fast food chain McDonald’s has also decided to put their best foot forward and urge locals to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus. To achieve this, the company will be launching redesigned McCafe cups and delivery box seal stickers. These product teases will read the message “We Can Do This” — a slogan created by the US health department.

Experts believe this partnership between the government and private organisations “will help more people make informed decisions about their health and learn about steps they can take to protect themselves and their communities,” Xavier Becerra, the health secretary, said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nauru-vaccinates-all-its-adults-in-world-record-effort-384421" hreflang="en">Nauru vaccinates all its adults in 'world record' effort</a>

The company will also be unveiling a billboard in New York’s Times Square which will feature vaccine information of this month.

In addition to this, several pharmaceutical companies are also in talks with the Biden administration to chalk out a plan for launching on-site vaccination clinics at community colleges with the aim of inoculating students, staff, and locals of nearby neighbourhoods.

Biden is also scheduled to virtually meet the leaders of Massachusetts, Utah, Ohio, New Mexico, Maine, and Minnesota to discuss “innovative ways governors are working to get the people in their states vaccinated,” White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said.

These creative measures are being taken to meet Biden’s target of vaccinating at least 70 per cent of the population with the first dose before July 04.

As the United States is increasing its pace of vaccination programmes every day, fast food chain McDonald’s and cab services (Uber and Lyft) have decided to reach out to people who are hesitant about getting vaccinated.

As the United States is increasing its pace of vaccination programmes every day, fast food chain McDonald’s and cab services (Uber and Lyft) have decided to reach out to people who are hesitant about getting vaccinated. On Tuesday, the US President, Joe Biden, announced a partnership between the White House and cab services Lyft and Uber. The two companies will be offering free rides to customers headed to a vaccination site to get vaccinated. Also read | US approves Pfizer-BioNTech's Covid vaccine for children aged 12-15 “People will be able to simply select a vaccination site near them, follow simple directions to redeem their ride, and then get a ride to take them to and from a nearby vaccination site free of charge,” the White House said in a statement. This promotion scheme will begin in the next weeks in the US and will continue until the end of the Fourth of July holiday in the country. Also read | Following a death, Brazil suspends use of AstraZeneca vaccine for pregnant women Not just cab services, the fast food chain McDonald’s has also decided to put their best foot forward and urge locals to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus. To achieve this, the company will be launching redesigned McCafe cups and delivery box seal stickers. These product teases will read the message “We Can Do This” — a slogan created by the US health department. Experts believe this partnership between the government and private organisations “will help more people make informed decisions about their health and learn about steps they can take to protect themselves and their communities,” Xavier Becerra, the health secretary, said in a statement. Also read | Nauru vaccinates all its adults in 'world record' effort The company will also be unveiling a billboard in New York’s Times Square which will feature vaccine information of this month. In addition to this, several pharmaceutical companies are also in talks with the Biden administration to chalk out a plan for launching on-site vaccination clinics at community colleges with the aim of inoculating students, staff, and locals of nearby neighbourhoods. Biden is also scheduled to virtually meet the leaders of Massachusetts, Utah, Ohio, New Mexico, Maine, and Minnesota to discuss “innovative ways governors are working to get the people in their states vaccinated,” White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said. These creative measures are being taken to meet Biden’s target of vaccinating at least 70 per cent of the population with the first dose before July 04.

We can do this: Uber, Lyft offer rides to Americans for Covid vaccination, McDonald's chips in too

Despite growing concerns from experts around the world, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative to India has assured that the existing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a> and diagnostics are effective against the B.1.617 variant of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>.

Dr Roderico H Ofrin has issued the statement on the basis of what the WHO knows till now based on the discussions taking place with experts from all over the world, claims Indian news agency ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-records-329942-new-covid-19-cases-3876-deaths-in-last-24-hours-384416">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-records-329942-new-covid-19-cases-3876-deaths-in-last-24-hours-384416/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"There has been an increasing rate of detection of this variant along with an increase and a surge of Covid-19 cases in parts of India. However, the relative contribution of this variant in the rapid increase of cases in the country remains unclear," Ofrin was quoted.

His statement has come at the same time when the WHO announced that the B.1.617&nbsp;variant of coronavirus, which was first identified in India in October, has been detected in more than 4,500 samples from "44 countries in all six WHO regions" through an open-access database.

A day before the variant, which was first found in India in October, has been labelled as a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-lists-covid-strain-first-detected-in-india-as-variant-of-concern-384201">variant of concern</a>"&nbsp;and has been added to the list of the deadly variants along with the ones found in Brazil and the UK.&nbsp;

Despite growing concerns from experts around the world, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative to India has assured that the existing vaccines and diagnostics are effective against the B.

Despite growing concerns from experts around the world, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative to India has assured that the existing vaccines and diagnostics are effective against the B.1.617 variant of coronavirus. Dr Roderico H Ofrin has issued the statement on the basis of what the WHO knows till now based on the discussions taking place with experts from all over the world, claims Indian news agency ANI. Watch | "There has been an increasing rate of detection of this variant along with an increase and a surge of Covid-19 cases in parts of India. However, the relative contribution of this variant in the rapid increase of cases in the country remains unclear," Ofrin was quoted. His statement has come at the same time when the WHO announced that the B.1.617 variant of coronavirus, which was first identified in India in October, has been detected in more than 4,500 samples from "44 countries in all six WHO regions" through an open-access database. A day before the variant, which was first found in India in October, has been labelled as a "variant of concern" and has been added to the list of the deadly variants along with the ones found in Brazil and the UK.

Existing vaccines effective against variant from India: WHO official

The tiny Pacific nation of Nauru has congratulated itself for a "world record" COVID-19 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination</a> drive which resulted in all its adult population receiving their first jab.

The remote island nation, one of the few places in the world to remain virus-free, said the four-week vaccination campaign had exceeded expectations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-will-soon-see-challenges-more-severe-than-covid-19-david-attenborough-384312" hreflang="en">World will soon see challenges more severe than COVID-19: David Attenborough</a>

It said 7,392 people received the first dose, or 108 percent of the estimated adult population, with foreigners included in the figure.

"The National Coronavirus Taskforce is extremely pleased with this world record result and thanks everyone on Nauru for playing their part to keep Nauru Covid free and safe," the government said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-dose-cuts-death-risk-by-80-2-pfizer-doses-by-97-uk-agency-384286" hreflang="en">One AstraZeneca Covid vaccine dose cuts death risk by 80%, 2 Pfizer doses by 97%: UK agency</a>

Taskforce chairman Kieren Keke said Nauru was fortunate to have enough vaccine doses to cover its adult population but there was no room for complacency, with testing ongoing to ensure the island remained virus-free.

"With every arriving traveller, the risk of the coronavirus entering Nauru remains and recent events in PNG, Fiji and India have shown how quickly the situation can change," he said.

Nauru received AstraZeneca vaccine doses as part of the global Covax programme aimed at boosting immunisation in poorer nations.

The tiny Pacific nation of Nauru has congratulated itself for a "world record" COVID-19 vaccination drive which resulted in all its adult population receiving their first jab.

The tiny Pacific nation of Nauru has congratulated itself for a "world record" COVID-19 vaccination drive which resulted in all its adult population receiving their first jab. The remote island nation, one of the few places in the world to remain virus-free, said the four-week vaccination campaign had exceeded expectations. Also read | World will soon see challenges more severe than COVID-19: David Attenborough It said 7,392 people received the first dose, or 108 percent of the estimated adult population, with foreigners included in the figure. "The National Coronavirus Taskforce is extremely pleased with this world record result and thanks everyone on Nauru for playing their part to keep Nauru Covid free and safe," the government said in a statement. Also read | One AstraZeneca Covid vaccine dose cuts death risk by 80%, 2 Pfizer doses by 97%: UK agency Taskforce chairman Kieren Keke said Nauru was fortunate to have enough vaccine doses to cover its adult population but there was no room for complacency, with testing ongoing to ensure the island remained virus-free. "With every arriving traveller, the risk of the coronavirus entering Nauru remains and recent events in PNG, Fiji and India have shown how quickly the situation can change," he said. Nauru received AstraZeneca vaccine doses as part of the global Covax programme aimed at boosting immunisation in poorer nations.

Nauru says it vaccinated all adults against Covid in 'world record' effort

US pharmaceutical company&nbsp;Moderna&nbsp;on Wednesday agreed to&nbsp;deliver&nbsp;25&nbsp;million Covid-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;shots to&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;by the end of next year as the country deals with a lagging immunization campaign.

Moderna&nbsp;will&nbsp;deliver&nbsp;10 million doses this year and by&nbsp;2022&nbsp;deliver&nbsp;15 million booster shots that are still being tested but meant to neutralize variants of Covid-19, the company and the Australian government said in a statement.

"We appreciate the partnership and support from the government of&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;with this first supply agreement for doses of the&nbsp;Moderna&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;and our variant booster candidates,"&nbsp;Moderna&nbsp;CEO Stephane Bancel said in a statement.

This month,&nbsp;Moderna&nbsp;released positive results from trials of a modified&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;aimed at the South African and Brazilian Covid-19 variants, and of the third dose of its initial&nbsp;vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/modernas-trial-sees-progress-against-covid-19-varients-brings-good-news-and-encouragement-383146">Moderna's trial sees progress against COVID-19 varients, brings good news and encouragement</a>

Australia's Covid-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;campaign has lagged behind those of other countries and the government's target. This week Canberra set a new goal of vaccinating all willing adults by the end of this year.

So far,&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;has delivered 2.5 million&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;shots, versus the roughly 50 million jabs needed to vaccinate the entire population.

After a series of problems with&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;delivery and the use of the AstraZeneca&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;for those under 50, the government is now in talks to manufacture promising mRNA&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;domestically.

Australia&nbsp;has ridden out the coronavirus pandemic by effectively sealing itself off from the rest of the world and with a series of snap local lockdowns.&nbsp;

It remains one of the few places where there is no widespread community transmission and daily life is relatively normal.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-victoria-on-alert-after-first-virus-case-reported-in-two-months-384387">Australia’s Victoria on alert after first virus case reported in two months</a>

But very few Australians are immunized and there have been repeated outbreaks linked to quarantine facilities, raising fears that its success could be fleeting.

US pharmaceutical company Moderna on Wednesday agreed to deliver 25 million Covid-19 vaccine shots to Australia by the end of next year as the country deals with a lagging immunization campaign.

US pharmaceutical company Moderna on Wednesday agreed to deliver 25 million Covid-19 vaccine shots to Australia by the end of next year as the country deals with a lagging immunization campaign. Moderna will deliver 10 million doses this year and by 2022 deliver 15 million booster shots that are still being tested but meant to neutralize variants of Covid-19, the company and the Australian government said in a statement. "We appreciate the partnership and support from the government of Australia with this first supply agreement for doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and our variant booster candidates," Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel said in a statement. This month, Moderna released positive results from trials of a modified vaccine aimed at the South African and Brazilian Covid-19 variants, and of the third dose of its initial vaccine. Also read | Moderna's trial sees progress against COVID-19 varients, brings good news and encouragement Australia's Covid-19 vaccine campaign has lagged behind those of other countries and the government's target. This week Canberra set a new goal of vaccinating all willing adults by the end of this year. So far, Australia has delivered 2.5 million vaccine shots, versus the roughly 50 million jabs needed to vaccinate the entire population. After a series of problems with vaccine delivery and the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine for those under 50, the government is now in talks to manufacture promising mRNA vaccines domestically. Australia has ridden out the coronavirus pandemic by effectively sealing itself off from the rest of the world and with a series of snap local lockdowns. It remains one of the few places where there is no widespread community transmission and daily life is relatively normal. Also read | Australia’s Victoria on alert after first virus case reported in two months But very few Australians are immunized and there have been repeated outbreaks linked to quarantine facilities, raising fears that its success could be fleeting.

Moderna to deliver 25 mn vaccines to Australia by 2022

China on Wednesday gave half a million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Bangladesh, in Beijing's latest move to fill the gap left by India as it reels from the pandemic.

After cases surged in March, India froze exports of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> vaccines to dozens of countries, including those in South Asia where New Delhi has held sway.

Although Dhaka had signed an agreement with India to buy 30 million doses only seven million arrived, plus another 3.3 million as a gift, before New Delhi called a halt to exports.

"A friend in time of need is a friend indeed," Bangladesh's health minister Zahid Maleque said during a ceremony in Dhaka airport when the Sinopharm vaccines were handed over by China's ambassador.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-bangladesh-bans-inter-district-travel-as-eid-approaches-384545">COVID-19: Bangladesh bans inter-district travel as Eid approaches</a>

The delivery follows a videoconference last month with Beijing and several South Asian nations, excluding India, during which China offered vaccines and other medical supplies.

Because of shortages, Bangladesh had already rolled back parts of the vaccine drive, allowing only those with a first jab to queue for the second dose.

But health department spokesman Robed Amin told AFP that Dhaka was now planning to get 50 million Chinese shots, with minister Zahid Maleque telling reporters that Dhaka plans to buy the vaccines from China or to produce them in Bangladesh.

Earlier foreign minister A.K. Abdul Momen told AFP Dhaka was also holding talks with Russia to import the Sputnik V vaccine.

He praised a Chinese plan to set up an emergency supply reserve for the region, as proposed by Beijing during the video conference.

Momen said the Sinopharm vaccines "will create a new era of relationship" between Beijing and Dhaka.

"China has become a great friend of Bangladesh over the years. And we look for better days," he added.

Elsewhere, Nepal sent an aircraft to China on Tuesday to pick up the first 400 out of a promised 20,000 oxygen cylinders as well as other medical supplies.

Beijing has also provided 800,000 coronavirus vaccines to Nepal, where cases are surging.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-records-highest-single-day-deaths-related-to-coronavirus-aid-arrives-from-china-384358">Nepal records highest single-day deaths related to coronavirus; aid arrives from China</a>

Kathmandu had received a million doses of the AstraZeneca shot from India, plus half of another promised two million, in addition to 350,000 via the Covax initiative.

And Sri Lanka has begun using 600,000 shots from China after deliveries from India stopped, while the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;has received 200,000.

China on Wednesday gave half a million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Bangladesh, in Beijing's latest move to fill the gap left by India as it reels from the pandemic.

China on Wednesday gave half a million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Bangladesh, in Beijing's latest move to fill the gap left by India as it reels from the pandemic. After cases surged in March, India froze exports of coronavirus vaccines to dozens of countries, including those in South Asia where New Delhi has held sway. Although Dhaka had signed an agreement with India to buy 30 million doses only seven million arrived, plus another 3.3 million as a gift, before New Delhi called a halt to exports. "A friend in time of need is a friend indeed," Bangladesh's health minister Zahid Maleque said during a ceremony in Dhaka airport when the Sinopharm vaccines were handed over by China's ambassador. Also read | COVID-19: Bangladesh bans inter-district travel as Eid approaches The delivery follows a videoconference last month with Beijing and several South Asian nations, excluding India, during which China offered vaccines and other medical supplies. Because of shortages, Bangladesh had already rolled back parts of the vaccine drive, allowing only those with a first jab to queue for the second dose. But health department spokesman Robed Amin told AFP that Dhaka was now planning to get 50 million Chinese shots, with minister Zahid Maleque telling reporters that Dhaka plans to buy the vaccines from China or to produce them in Bangladesh. Earlier foreign minister A.K. Abdul Momen told AFP Dhaka was also holding talks with Russia to import the Sputnik V vaccine. He praised a Chinese plan to set up an emergency supply reserve for the region, as proposed by Beijing during the video conference. Momen said the Sinopharm vaccines "will create a new era of relationship" between Beijing and Dhaka. "China has become a great friend of Bangladesh over the years. And we look for better days," he added. Elsewhere, Nepal sent an aircraft to China on Tuesday to pick up the first 400 out of a promised 20,000 oxygen cylinders as well as other medical supplies. Beijing has also provided 800,000 coronavirus vaccines to Nepal, where cases are surging. Also read | Nepal records highest single-day deaths related to coronavirus; aid arrives from China Kathmandu had received a million doses of the AstraZeneca shot from India, plus half of another promised two million, in addition to 350,000 via the Covax initiative. And Sri Lanka has begun using 600,000 shots from China after deliveries from India stopped, while the Maldives has received 200,000.

China delivers half a million vaccines to Bangladesh

A group of health workers in India’s northeastern state of Assam is being questioned about running a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> centre that is allegedly unauthorised.

The vaccination centre was set up at Silchar civil hospital in Assam without completing and following the required process and the health workers had been charging nearly INR 2,000 for each dose.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mulls-joint-production-of-johnson-johnson-covid-vaccine-with-india-384452" hreflang="en">US mulls joint production of Johnson &amp; Johnson Covid jabs with India</a>

In addition to unauthorised establishment and charging more than the set price, the group has also been accused of not recording details of at least 80 people who had been administered the first shot of Covidshield vaccine.

Nearly 10 vaccine vials were issued in the name of Urban Health Center but were actually used to vaccinate people out of turn at the parallel vaccination centre, authorities from the Assam health department said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-link-between-5g-and-covid-19-as-its-testing-not-yet-started-says-indian-government-384455" hreflang="en">No link between 5G and COVID-19 as its testing not yet started, says Indian government</a>

This centre was being supervised by health worker Swarnajit Paul and senior nurse Sarbani Roy. When the authorities reached the centre, they found more than 100 used empty syringes and a few empty vials of the Covishield vaccine.

Suspicions were raised when a crowd was spotted in a room in the hospital. Upon investigation, Roy and Paul admitted to the crime of administering vaccines to unregistered locals, but they also claimed to be following an order from senior officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/existing-vaccines-effective-against-variant-from-india-who-official-384447" hreflang="en">Existing vaccines effective against variant from India: WHO official</a>

"We vaccinated around 50 people on Monday and 30 people today. I received vaccine vials from a health worker but I don’t know his name. I am a single mother and I have to feed my family with this job. I don’t know if this is legal or not," Surbani Roy said.

Swaranjit Paul, however, claimed the vials used were the ones that were to go to waste as per the guidelines of the waste management scheme. "At least 10% of vaccines get wasted during the process of vaccination, we are allowed to vaccinate people from the half-used vials of vaccine. We started this process on Saturday under waste management but later some new vials were used," he said.

Authorities have assured locals that action against those involved will be taken within 24 hours.

A group of health workers in India’s northeastern state of Assam is being questioned about running a vaccine centre that is allegedly unauthorised. The vaccination centre was set up at Silchar civil hospital in Assam without completing and following the required process and the health workers had been charging nearly INR 2,000 for each dose.

A group of health workers in India’s northeastern state of Assam is being questioned about running a vaccine centre that is allegedly unauthorised. The vaccination centre was set up at Silchar civil hospital in Assam without completing and following the required process and the health workers had been charging nearly INR 2,000 for each dose. Also read | US mulls joint production of Johnson & Johnson Covid jabs with India In addition to unauthorised establishment and charging more than the set price, the group has also been accused of not recording details of at least 80 people who had been administered the first shot of Covidshield vaccine. Nearly 10 vaccine vials were issued in the name of Urban Health Center but were actually used to vaccinate people out of turn at the parallel vaccination centre, authorities from the Assam health department said. Also read | No link between 5G and COVID-19 as its testing not yet started, says Indian government This centre was being supervised by health worker Swarnajit Paul and senior nurse Sarbani Roy. When the authorities reached the centre, they found more than 100 used empty syringes and a few empty vials of the Covishield vaccine. Suspicions were raised when a crowd was spotted in a room in the hospital. Upon investigation, Roy and Paul admitted to the crime of administering vaccines to unregistered locals, but they also claimed to be following an order from senior officials. Also read | Existing vaccines effective against variant from India: WHO official "We vaccinated around 50 people on Monday and 30 people today. I received vaccine vials from a health worker but I don’t know his name. I am a single mother and I have to feed my family with this job. I don’t know if this is legal or not," Surbani Roy said. Swaranjit Paul, however, claimed the vials used were the ones that were to go to waste as per the guidelines of the waste management scheme. "At least 10% of vaccines get wasted during the process of vaccination, we are allowed to vaccinate people from the half-used vials of vaccine. We started this process on Saturday under waste management but later some new vials were used," he said. Authorities have assured locals that action against those involved will be taken within 24 hours.

India: Health workers administering Covishield at unauthorised vaccine centre busted

The US is eyeing joint production of the Johnson &amp; Johnson coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> with India, aiming to ramp up production of the jabs.

US chargé d’affaires Daniel Smith has revealed that the US government is in talks with its Indian counterpart to arrange the raw materials — listed by India — needed to manufacture the vaccines. However, he has also cautioned that this will not be an easy task as the global supply chains are currently disrupted all over the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/existing-vaccines-effective-against-variant-from-india-who-official-384447" hreflang="en">Existing vaccines effective against variant from India: WHO official</a>

"We are now working closely with them to go through this list to decide what is available, what we can provide and how quickly we can provide that. I just want to say this is not an easy task, that is, there are global challenges in the global supply chain right now when it comes to precursors and raw materials necessary for these vaccines,"&nbsp; Smith said.

He also clarified that in addition to eyeing a joint production of the J&amp;J vaccine with India, the US government is also working with Serum Institute of India (SII) and a few other vaccine manufacturers to increase the speed and quantity of vaccines being produced amid a covid crisis in the South Asian country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-can-do-this-uber-lyft-offer-rides-to-americans-for-covid-vaccination-mcdonalds-chips-in-too-384438" hreflang="en">We can do this: Uber, Lyft offer rides to Americans for Covid vaccination, McDonald's chips in too</a>

"I know [the US International] Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is looking at how we can invest so that we can help produce the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine here in India," he said.

The US is also urging several private sector discussions to increase the manufacturing of vaccines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-in-india-348421-fresh-cases-4205-deaths-in-last-24-hours-384432" hreflang="en">COVID-19 in India: 3,48,421 fresh cases, 4205 deaths in last 24 hours</a>

"I think we are watching carefully the production levels at the SII and elsewhere. We’ve been in close touch with the SII to try to determine what raw materials we could provide, and assistance that we can provide to help boost production. But that’s an issue with vaccines across the board, it’s not simply with the AstraZeneca vaccine in that regard," he was quoted by an Indian newspaper, Hindustan Times.

He also addressed the issue of the US holding on to a few doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. He has claimed the doses will not be passed on till the FDA approves them in the safety check.

"I know that there are a number of doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine that were made in the plant outside of Baltimore, but there were problems with this plant. So far, the FDA hasn’t certified that these vaccines are available for anyone’s use, for export or not. So I can’t say when that will happen or what will be done exactly as we go forward,"&nbsp;he said.

The US is eyeing joint production of the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine with India, aiming to ramp up production of the jabs. US chargé d’affaires Daniel Smith has revealed that the US government is in talks with its Indian counterpart to arrange the raw materials — listed by India — needed to manufacture the vaccines.

The US is eyeing joint production of the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine with India, aiming to ramp up production of the jabs. US chargé d’affaires Daniel Smith has revealed that the US government is in talks with its Indian counterpart to arrange the raw materials — listed by India — needed to manufacture the vaccines. However, he has also cautioned that this will not be an easy task as the global supply chains are currently disrupted all over the world. Also read | Existing vaccines effective against variant from India: WHO official "We are now working closely with them to go through this list to decide what is available, what we can provide and how quickly we can provide that. I just want to say this is not an easy task, that is, there are global challenges in the global supply chain right now when it comes to precursors and raw materials necessary for these vaccines," Smith said. He also clarified that in addition to eyeing a joint production of the J&J vaccine with India, the US government is also working with Serum Institute of India (SII) and a few other vaccine manufacturers to increase the speed and quantity of vaccines being produced amid a covid crisis in the South Asian country. Also read | We can do this: Uber, Lyft offer rides to Americans for Covid vaccination, McDonald's chips in too "I know [the US International] Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is looking at how we can invest so that we can help produce the Johnson & Johnson vaccine here in India," he said. The US is also urging several private sector discussions to increase the manufacturing of vaccines. Also read | COVID-19 in India: 3,48,421 fresh cases, 4205 deaths in last 24 hours "I think we are watching carefully the production levels at the SII and elsewhere. We’ve been in close touch with the SII to try to determine what raw materials we could provide, and assistance that we can provide to help boost production. But that’s an issue with vaccines across the board, it’s not simply with the AstraZeneca vaccine in that regard," he was quoted by an Indian newspaper, Hindustan Times. He also addressed the issue of the US holding on to a few doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. He has claimed the doses will not be passed on till the FDA approves them in the safety check. "I know that there are a number of doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine that were made in the plant outside of Baltimore, but there were problems with this plant. So far, the FDA hasn’t certified that these vaccines are available for anyone’s use, for export or not. So I can’t say when that will happen or what will be done exactly as we go forward," he said.

US mulls joint production of Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine with India

Venezuela's main academy of medicine has asked the United States to add the South American nation to its international donor list for millions of doses of COVID-19 vaccines, despite a political freeze between the two countries.

Enrique Lopez-Loyo, president of the politically independent National Academy of Medicine, made the request to U.S. Ambassador to Venezuela James Story at a meeting on May 2, the academy said in a statement on Monday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="US approves Pfizer-BioNTech's Covid vaccine for children aged 12-15">US approves Pfizer-BioNTech's Covid vaccine for children aged 12-15</a>

"To control the pandemic in our country, we need to vaccinate around 70% of the adult population, nearly 15 million people, in as little time as possible," the academy said in the statement. "The amount of vaccines that have arrived to Venezuela ... represents less than 10% of what Venezuela needs."

Venezuela has received around 1.4 million vaccines from China and Russia, according to the Health Ministry, and hopes to receive doses for about 5 million people from the World Health Organization's (WHO) COVAX program.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="'Vaccine tourists' fly in from abroad for injections on US beach ">'Vaccine tourists' fly in from abroad for injections on US beach&nbsp;</a>

The academy is a member of the Venezuelan government's round table developing a response to the coronavirus crisis for its 30 million people.

The academy's plea, however, for U.S. supplies of AstraZeneca PLC vaccines runs contrary to the government's refusal in March to authorize the vaccine because of reports of blood clotting in some recipients.

The academy's request also comes amid U.S. sanctions on Venezuela to protest the re-election of President Nicolas Maduro in 2018 in elections it, and many other nations, viewed as fraudulent. Venezuela blames Washington's sanctions for its economic woes.

Story, appointed at the end of last year, is based in Bogota, Colombia, because of the rupture in relations.

The academy said Story responded to its request, saying the United States valued the independence of the academy and it looked 'forward to working with all like-minded parties in the search for a solution to this crisis.'

Venezuela's information ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Venezuela has reported a total of around 209,000 COVID-19 cases, including some 2,300 deaths.

Venezuela's main academy of medicine has asked the United States to add the South American nation to its international donor list for millions of doses of COVID-19 vaccines, despite a political freeze between the two countries.

Venezuela's main academy of medicine has asked the United States to add the South American nation to its international donor list for millions of doses of COVID-19 vaccines, despite a political freeze between the two countries. Enrique Lopez-Loyo, president of the politically independent National Academy of Medicine, made the request to U.S. Ambassador to Venezuela James Story at a meeting on May 2, the academy said in a statement on Monday. Also read | US approves Pfizer-BioNTech's Covid vaccine for children aged 12-15 "To control the pandemic in our country, we need to vaccinate around 70% of the adult population, nearly 15 million people, in as little time as possible," the academy said in the statement. "The amount of vaccines that have arrived to Venezuela ... represents less than 10% of what Venezuela needs." Venezuela has received around 1.4 million vaccines from China and Russia, according to the Health Ministry, and hopes to receive doses for about 5 million people from the World Health Organization's (WHO) COVAX program. Also read | 'Vaccine tourists' fly in from abroad for injections on US beach The academy is a member of the Venezuelan government's round table developing a response to the coronavirus crisis for its 30 million people. The academy's plea, however, for U.S. supplies of AstraZeneca PLC vaccines runs contrary to the government's refusal in March to authorize the vaccine because of reports of blood clotting in some recipients. The academy's request also comes amid U.S. sanctions on Venezuela to protest the re-election of President Nicolas Maduro in 2018 in elections it, and many other nations, viewed as fraudulent. Venezuela blames Washington's sanctions for its economic woes. Story, appointed at the end of last year, is based in Bogota, Colombia, because of the rupture in relations. The academy said Story responded to its request, saying the United States valued the independence of the academy and it looked 'forward to working with all like-minded parties in the search for a solution to this crisis.' Venezuela's information ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Venezuela has reported a total of around 209,000 COVID-19 cases, including some 2,300 deaths.

Venezuela's academy of medicine asks US to donate COVID-19 vaccines

Patients, who had organ transplants, remain vulnerable to COVID-19 infections even after a second vaccine dose, finds a study that urges people who are immunocompromised to strictly adhere to wearing masks, and maintain physical distancing, even after vaccination. 
 
The study, led by researchers at Johns Hopkins University in the US, showed that after two doses of Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, &nbsp;the virus that causes COVID 19, just 54 per cent of people who have received solid organ transplants produced sufficient antibodies. The findings are published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). 
 
"Transplant recipients should not assume that two vaccine doses guarantee sufficient immunity against SARS-CoV-2 any more than it did after just one dose," said Dorry Segev, Professor of Surgery and Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. 
 
"Based on our findings, we recommend that transplant recipients and other immunocompromised patients continue to practice strict <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> safety precautions, even after vaccination," added lead author Brian Boyarsky, a surgeon at the varsity. 
 
People who receive solid organ transplants (such as hearts, lungs and kidneys) often must take drugs to suppress their immune systems and prevent rejection. Such regimens may interfere with a transplant recipient`s ability to make antibodies to foreign substances, including the protective ones produced in response to vaccines, the researchers said. 
 
The study evaluated this immunogenic response following vaccination from either Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech in 658 transplant recipients, none of whom had a prior diagnosis of COVID-19, between December 16, 2020, and March 13, 2021. 
 
The team found that only 98 of the 658 study participants, 15 per cent, had detectable antibodies to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">SARS-CoV-2</a> at 21 days after the first vaccine dose. 
 
At 29 days following the second dose, the number of participants with detectable antibodies rose to 357 out of 658, 54 per cent. After both vaccine doses were administered, 301 out of 658 participants, 46 per cent had no detectable antibody at all while 259, 39 per cent only produced antibodies after the second shot.

Patients, who had organ transplants, remain vulnerable to COVID-19 infections even after a second vaccine dose, finds a study that urges people who are immunocompromised to strictly adhere to wearing masks, and maintain physical distancing, even after vaccination.

Patients, who had organ transplants, remain vulnerable to COVID-19 infections even after a second vaccine dose, finds a study that urges people who are immunocompromised to strictly adhere to wearing masks, and maintain physical distancing, even after vaccination. The study, led by researchers at Johns Hopkins University in the US, showed that after two doses of Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID 19, just 54 per cent of people who have received solid organ transplants produced sufficient antibodies. The findings are published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). "Transplant recipients should not assume that two vaccine doses guarantee sufficient immunity against SARS-CoV-2 any more than it did after just one dose," said Dorry Segev, Professor of Surgery and Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. "Based on our findings, we recommend that transplant recipients and other immunocompromised patients continue to practice strict COVID-19 safety precautions, even after vaccination," added lead author Brian Boyarsky, a surgeon at the varsity. People who receive solid organ transplants (such as hearts, lungs and kidneys) often must take drugs to suppress their immune systems and prevent rejection. Such regimens may interfere with a transplant recipient`s ability to make antibodies to foreign substances, including the protective ones produced in response to vaccines, the researchers said. The study evaluated this immunogenic response following vaccination from either Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech in 658 transplant recipients, none of whom had a prior diagnosis of COVID-19, between December 16, 2020, and March 13, 2021. The team found that only 98 of the 658 study participants, 15 per cent, had detectable antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 at 21 days after the first vaccine dose. At 29 days following the second dose, the number of participants with detectable antibodies rose to 357 out of 658, 54 per cent. After both vaccine doses were administered, 301 out of 658 participants, 46 per cent had no detectable antibody at all while 259, 39 per cent only produced antibodies after the second shot.

COVID jabs won't raise immunity in organ transplant patients: Study

India is facing the worst COVID-19 surge and every passing hour the situation is becoming dire. The country continues facing oxygen and drug crisis amid the rising number of cases. Many international celebrities such as Shawn Mendes, Richard Madden, Mindy Kaling, and Ellen Degeneres have pledged their support to help the country. 
 
Hugh Jackman, Robert Pattinson, Ewan McGregor and Lily &nbsp;Collins have come forward to raise funds for COVID-19 relief work in India. 
 
Jackman urged his fans to help India in its fight against the deadly virus. Taking to his Instagram stories on Thursday, the actor shared the link of a fundraiser at GiveIndia, by tagging Priyanka Chopra and GiveIndia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/urgent-situation-international-celebs-pledge-support-for-india-amid-covid-19-crisis-382485" hreflang="en">'Urgent situation', International celebs pledge support for India amid COVID-19 crisis</a> 
 
Later, he also shared a poster, reading: "India needs our help. Together we can stop the spread. Let's do our bit and donate to help curb the biggest global outbreak." 
 
Robert Pattinson, Collins and &nbsp;McGregor are also helping to raise funds for COVID-19 relief in India. As per Variety, the three actors along with GO Campaign initiated to raise funds for the country. 
 
Urging his followers to donate, Pattinson&nbsp;said, “Think of GO as a really meaningful investment fund — they take your dollars and invest them in children, in a diverse portfolio, for maximum results. And the common thread is those heroes, their proven track record, their commitment to serving children.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-and-anushka-sharma-announce-campaign-for-raising-funds-for-covid-19-383471" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma announce campaign for raising funds for COVID-19</a> 
 
'Emily in Paris' star Lily Collins, who is an ambassador of GO Campaign along with Pattinson and McGregor, said, “India is facing a devastating second wave of COVID-19, and their healthcare system does not have enough resources to care for everybody. They are in dire need of protective equipment, oxygen, medicine, and food to save lives. I have such beautiful memories of my time in India and the country will always hold such a special place in my heart.” 
 
McGregor added that any kind of donation to the campaign's relief fund will help in saving lives. "As Covid rages through India, GO Campaign needs your help to provide PPE, emergency food, medicine, pulse oximeters, and resuscitators to those who need it. Any donation amount can make a difference and can help save lives," he said.

India is facing the worst COVID-19 surge and every passing hour the situation is becoming dire. The country continues facing oxygen and drug crisis amid the rising number of cases.

India is facing the worst COVID-19 surge and every passing hour the situation is becoming dire. The country continues facing oxygen and drug crisis amid the rising number of cases. Many international celebrities such as Shawn Mendes, Richard Madden, Mindy Kaling, and Ellen Degeneres have pledged their support to help the country. Hugh Jackman, Robert Pattinson, Ewan McGregor and Lily Collins have come forward to raise funds for COVID-19 relief work in India. Jackman urged his fans to help India in its fight against the deadly virus. Taking to his Instagram stories on Thursday, the actor shared the link of a fundraiser at GiveIndia, by tagging Priyanka Chopra and GiveIndia. 'Urgent situation', International celebs pledge support for India amid COVID-19 crisis Later, he also shared a poster, reading: "India needs our help. Together we can stop the spread. Let's do our bit and donate to help curb the biggest global outbreak." Robert Pattinson, Collins and McGregor are also helping to raise funds for COVID-19 relief in India. As per Variety, the three actors along with GO Campaign initiated to raise funds for the country. Urging his followers to donate, Pattinson said, “Think of GO as a really meaningful investment fund — they take your dollars and invest them in children, in a diverse portfolio, for maximum results. And the common thread is those heroes, their proven track record, their commitment to serving children.” Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma announce campaign for raising funds for COVID-19 'Emily in Paris' star Lily Collins, who is an ambassador of GO Campaign along with Pattinson and McGregor, said, “India is facing a devastating second wave of COVID-19, and their healthcare system does not have enough resources to care for everybody. They are in dire need of protective equipment, oxygen, medicine, and food to save lives. I have such beautiful memories of my time in India and the country will always hold such a special place in my heart.” McGregor added that any kind of donation to the campaign's relief fund will help in saving lives. "As Covid rages through India, GO Campaign needs your help to provide PPE, emergency food, medicine, pulse oximeters, and resuscitators to those who need it. Any donation amount can make a difference and can help save lives," he said.

Robert Pattinson, Lily Collins and more stars pledge support for Covid-19 relief efforts in India

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

White House chief medical advisor, Anthony Fauci, has assured that a positive decision about Pfizer's&nbsp;coronavirus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine?page=2">vaccine</a> for children aged 12-15 will be announced soon.

"I think it is going to be very soon," he said during an interview with a local news channel. "I mean, I don’t want to get ahead of the FDA, but I believe it is going to be within several days. I cannot imagine it is going to be much longer than that."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/largest-study-on-pfizer-covid-vaccine-says-drug-offers-over-95-protection-383099">Largest study on Pfizer Covid vaccine says drug offers over 95% protection</a>

Pfizer's CEO Albert Bourla has jumped a step ahead and claimed the announcement of the vaccine for children will be announced soon by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The group of medical experts is scheduled to meet on May 12 to review the use of Pfizer’s vaccine shot for adolescents — which is a subtle hint that the authorisation process has already begun in the US.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/modernas-booster-shot-trial-brings-good-news-and-encouragement-383146" hreflang="en">Moderna's booster shot trial brings good news and encouragement</a>

In a bid to vaccinate as many children as possible, the US President, Joe Biden, has announced that the federal government is ready to "immediately move to make about 20,000 pharmacy sites across the country ready to vaccinate those adolescents." He has also assured teenagers that they can get vaccinated at two different places if they are moving this summer.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Canada became the first country to approve the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in children aged 12 years and up.

"This is the first vaccine authorized in Canada for the prevention of Covid-19 in children and marks a significant milestone in Canada's fight against the pandemic," Health Canada chief medical advisor Supriya Sharma told a news conference.

White House chief medical advisor, Anthony Fauci, has assured that a positive decision about Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine for children aged 12-15 will be announced soon.

White House chief medical advisor, Anthony Fauci, has assured that a positive decision about Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine for children aged 12-15 will be announced soon. "I think it is going to be very soon," he said during an interview with a local news channel. "I mean, I don’t want to get ahead of the FDA, but I believe it is going to be within several days. I cannot imagine it is going to be much longer than that." Also read | Largest study on Pfizer Covid vaccine says drug offers over 95% protection Pfizer's CEO Albert Bourla has jumped a step ahead and claimed the announcement of the vaccine for children will be announced soon by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The group of medical experts is scheduled to meet on May 12 to review the use of Pfizer’s vaccine shot for adolescents — which is a subtle hint that the authorisation process has already begun in the US. Also read | Moderna's booster shot trial brings good news and encouragement In a bid to vaccinate as many children as possible, the US President, Joe Biden, has announced that the federal government is ready to "immediately move to make about 20,000 pharmacy sites across the country ready to vaccinate those adolescents." He has also assured teenagers that they can get vaccinated at two different places if they are moving this summer. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Canada became the first country to approve the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in children aged 12 years and up. "This is the first vaccine authorized in Canada for the prevention of Covid-19 in children and marks a significant milestone in Canada's fight against the pandemic," Health Canada chief medical advisor Supriya Sharma told a news conference.

Decision about Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine approval for teens in US coming soon: Fauci

Moderna has revealed the findings from its initial data of a small clinical trial regarding the performance of booster shot of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a>&nbsp;against the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus.</a>&nbsp;The trial was done against some variants of the virus including those first found in South Africa and Brazil.

The good news from Moderna’s clinical trial has come as an encouragement for several medical experts around the globe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/largest-study-on-pfizer-covid-vaccine-says-drug-offers-over-95-protection-383099">Largest study on Pfizer Covid vaccine says drug offers over 95% protection</a>

The pharmaceutical company, which is one of the leading manufactures of a vaccine against Covid, has been studying the need and impact of a booster shot against this deadly virus, in a bid to protect humans completely from this pandemic.

"We are encouraged by these new data, which reinforce our confidence that our booster strategy should be protective against these newly detected variants," Moderna’s CEO Stephane Bancel said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-becomes-first-country-to-authorise-pfizer-covid-vaccine-for-kids-age-12-and-up-383033" hreflang="en">Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up</a>

In this small clinical trial, forty participants were tested for their levels of neutralising antibodies nearly six to eight months after the participants had received their primary vaccination, in two different doses.

They were injected with a third shot which has been designed to fight against the new variants which have been found all over the globe, especially in South Africa and Brazil. The booster shot improved antibody levels against these two major variants, the data revealed.

Moderna is also testing a third type of booster which will be a combination of the two other types and the results for which will be announced soon.

Moderna has revealed the findings from its initial data of a small clinical trial regarding the performance of booster shot of vaccine against the deadly coronavirus.

Moderna has revealed the findings from its initial data of a small clinical trial regarding the performance of booster shot of vaccine against the deadly coronavirus. The trial was done against some variants of the virus including those first found in South Africa and Brazil. The good news from Moderna’s clinical trial has come as an encouragement for several medical experts around the globe. Also read | Largest study on Pfizer Covid vaccine says drug offers over 95% protection The pharmaceutical company, which is one of the leading manufactures of a vaccine against Covid, has been studying the need and impact of a booster shot against this deadly virus, in a bid to protect humans completely from this pandemic. "We are encouraged by these new data, which reinforce our confidence that our booster strategy should be protective against these newly detected variants," Moderna’s CEO Stephane Bancel said. Also read | Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up In this small clinical trial, forty participants were tested for their levels of neutralising antibodies nearly six to eight months after the participants had received their primary vaccination, in two different doses. They were injected with a third shot which has been designed to fight against the new variants which have been found all over the globe, especially in South Africa and Brazil. The booster shot improved antibody levels against these two major variants, the data revealed. Moderna is also testing a third type of booster which will be a combination of the two other types and the results for which will be announced soon.

Moderna's trial sees progress against COVID-19 varients, brings good news and encouragement

Free&nbsp;beer, free doughnuts, savings bonds, government officials and businesses are teaming up to encourage Americans to get vaccinated against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>.

President Joe Biden wants 70 per cent of adults to have received at least one shot by Independence Day on July 4 and overcoming vaccine hesitancy is key to reaching the goal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-aiming-for-70-adults-to-get-first-covid-shot-by-july-4-382818">US President Joe Biden aiming for 70% adults to get first Covid shot by July 4</a>

"We know there are millions of Americans who need a little bit of encouragement to get the shot," Biden told reporters at the White House on Tuesday.

Some 56 per cent of American adults, more than 145 million people, have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine but the pace of vaccination has been declining lately.

Federal, state and local officials are partnering with pharmacies, restaurants, breweries, supermarkets and sports teams to come up with incentives to get people to get their shots. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy launched a "Shot and a&nbsp;Beer" programme to encourage vaccination.

"Any New Jerseyan who gets their first vaccine dose in the month of May and takes their vaccination card to a participating brewery will receive a free&nbsp;beer," Murphy tweeted.

The offer is only open, of course, to residents of the "Garden State" who are over the age of 21, the legal drinking age in the United States.

Governor Ned Lamont of the state of Connecticut unveiled a similar "Free Drink" promotion with participating restaurants last month.

In Washington, Mayor Muriel Bowser urged residents of the nation's capital to "come get vaccinated and grab a&nbsp;beer, on us" at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

'Motivate them'&nbsp;

In West Virginia, Governor Jim Justice announced that the state will offer $100 savings bonds to residents aged 16 to 35 who get vaccinated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reaching-herd-immunity-is-unlikely-in-the-us-experts-now-believe-382589">Reaching ‘herd immunity’ is unlikely in the US, experts now believe</a>&nbsp;

"Our kids today probably don't really realize just how important they are in shutting this thing down," Justice said. "I'm trying to come up with a way that's truly going to motivate them, and us, to get over the hump."

"They're not taking vaccines as fast as we'd like them to take them," Justice said. "If we really want to move the needle, we've got to get our younger people vaccinated."

In Maryland, Governor Larry Hogan said state employees who get vaccinated will receive $100.

They also must agree to receive any booster shots recommended by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or they will have to reimburse the $100.

"Incentives like this are another way to reinforce the importance of getting vaccinated, and we strongly encourage businesses across the state to consider offering incentives to their workers as well," Hogan said.

Krispy Kreme is offering a free glazed doughnut to anyone who presents their COVID-19 vaccination card at one of its stores.&nbsp;

According to a survey conducted in March by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 25 per cent of Americans aged 18 to 29 are adopting a "wait and see" attitude towards being vaccinated.

Among US adults, 61 per cent said they had been vaccinated or intended to do so as soon as possible while 17 per cent said they were adopting a "wait and see" approach and 13 per cent said they will "definitely not" get vaccinated.

Free beer, free doughnuts, savings bonds, government officials and businesses are teaming up to encourage Americans to get vaccinated against COVID-19. President Joe Biden wants 70 per cent of adults to have received at least one shot by Independence Day on July 4 and overcoming vaccine hesitancy is key to reaching the goal.

Free beer, free doughnuts, savings bonds, government officials and businesses are teaming up to encourage Americans to get vaccinated against COVID-19. President Joe Biden wants 70 per cent of adults to have received at least one shot by Independence Day on July 4 and overcoming vaccine hesitancy is key to reaching the goal. Also read | US President Joe Biden aiming for 70% adults to get first Covid shot by July 4 "We know there are millions of Americans who need a little bit of encouragement to get the shot," Biden told reporters at the White House on Tuesday. Some 56 per cent of American adults, more than 145 million people, have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine but the pace of vaccination has been declining lately. Federal, state and local officials are partnering with pharmacies, restaurants, breweries, supermarkets and sports teams to come up with incentives to get people to get their shots. In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy launched a "Shot and a Beer" programme to encourage vaccination. "Any New Jerseyan who gets their first vaccine dose in the month of May and takes their vaccination card to a participating brewery will receive a free beer," Murphy tweeted. The offer is only open, of course, to residents of the "Garden State" who are over the age of 21, the legal drinking age in the United States. Governor Ned Lamont of the state of Connecticut unveiled a similar "Free Drink" promotion with participating restaurants last month. In Washington, Mayor Muriel Bowser urged residents of the nation's capital to "come get vaccinated and grab a beer, on us" at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. 'Motivate them' In West Virginia, Governor Jim Justice announced that the state will offer $100 savings bonds to residents aged 16 to 35 who get vaccinated. Also read | Reaching ‘herd immunity’ is unlikely in the US, experts now believe "Our kids today probably don't really realize just how important they are in shutting this thing down," Justice said. "I'm trying to come up with a way that's truly going to motivate them, and us, to get over the hump." "They're not taking vaccines as fast as we'd like them to take them," Justice said. "If we really want to move the needle, we've got to get our younger people vaccinated." In Maryland, Governor Larry Hogan said state employees who get vaccinated will receive $100. They also must agree to receive any booster shots recommended by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or they will have to reimburse the $100. "Incentives like this are another way to reinforce the importance of getting vaccinated, and we strongly encourage businesses across the state to consider offering incentives to their workers as well," Hogan said. Krispy Kreme is offering a free glazed doughnut to anyone who presents their COVID-19 vaccination card at one of its stores. According to a survey conducted in March by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 25 per cent of Americans aged 18 to 29 are adopting a "wait and see" attitude towards being vaccinated. Among US adults, 61 per cent said they had been vaccinated or intended to do so as soon as possible while 17 per cent said they were adopting a "wait and see" approach and 13 per cent said they will "definitely not" get vaccinated.

Free beer and doughnuts to promote vaccines in US