<p>CureVac, the German pharma company said on Tuesday (July 6) that it was suing BioNTech, its rival in pharma sector for patent infringement. The lawsuit of patent infringement is for them mRNA technology to develop Comirnaty coronvirus vaccine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CureVac said in a statement that it intends to "assert its intellectual property rights, accumulated over more than two decades of pioneering work in mRNA technology, which contributed to Covid-19 vaccine development"</p>

<p>The lawsuit against Mainz-based BioNTech and two of its subsidiaries will seek "fair compensation" for infringement of intellectual property rights, the company said.</p>

<p>BioNTech developed Comirnaty jab with US pharma company Pfizer. It was the first Covid-19 vaccine to be approved in West. It has since become one of the most widely used vaccine around the world.</p>

<p>Tuebingen-based CureVac was founded 22 years ago by mRNA pioneer Ingmar Hoerr.</p>

<p>It has since patented basic technology "related to mRNA design, delivery and manufacturing" that it said had "materially contributed to the development of safe and efficacious Covid-19 vaccines".</p>

<p>CureVac said that as the "earliest pioneer in mRNA technology" it had supported "decades of scientific research and innovation" behind the jabs.</p>

<p>BioNTech said in a statement its work was original and it would "vigorously defend it against all allegations of patent infringement".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are aware that it is not unusual that other companies in the pharmaceutical industry, having witnessed the success of Comirnaty, are now suggesting that the vaccine potentially infringes their intellectual property rights," it said.</p>

<p>CureVac said it was not planning any legal steps that could hinder the production, sale or distribution of the Comirnaty vaccine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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CureVac, the German pharma company said on Tuesday (July 6) that it was suing BioNTech, its rival in pharma sector for patent infringement. The lawsuit of patent infringement is for them mRNA technology to develop Comirnaty coronvirus vaccine.

CureVac, the German pharma company said on Tuesday (July 6) that it was suing BioNTech, its rival in pharma sector for patent infringement. The lawsuit of patent infringement is for them mRNA technology to develop Comirnaty coronvirus vaccine. CureVac said in a statement that it intends to "assert its intellectual property rights, accumulated over more than two decades of pioneering work in mRNA technology, which contributed to Covid-19 vaccine development" The lawsuit against Mainz-based BioNTech and two of its subsidiaries will seek "fair compensation" for infringement of intellectual property rights, the company said. BioNTech developed Comirnaty jab with US pharma company Pfizer. It was the first Covid-19 vaccine to be approved in West. It has since become one of the most widely used vaccine around the world. Tuebingen-based CureVac was founded 22 years ago by mRNA pioneer Ingmar Hoerr. It has since patented basic technology "related to mRNA design, delivery and manufacturing" that it said had "materially contributed to the development of safe and efficacious Covid-19 vaccines". CureVac said that as the "earliest pioneer in mRNA technology" it had supported "decades of scientific research and innovation" behind the jabs. BioNTech said in a statement its work was original and it would "vigorously defend it against all allegations of patent infringement". "We are aware that it is not unusual that other companies in the pharmaceutical industry, having witnessed the success of Comirnaty, are now suggesting that the vaccine potentially infringes their intellectual property rights," it said. CureVac said it was not planning any legal steps that could hinder the production, sale or distribution of the Comirnaty vaccine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

CureVac sues BioNTech over Covid vaccine technology

Horseshoe crabs are vital for the safety of human vaccines because their blood contains a substance that detects a contaminant called endotoxin which is a type of bacterial toxin.

WION Climate Tracker: Horseshoe crab blood key to making covid-19 vaccine

<p>A panel of experts in the US has given a go ahead for Novavax Covid vaccine. The panel was convened by US drug regulator. Although a late runner in global combat against Covid, Novavax can help efforts to overcome vaccine hesitancy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Right now, three vaccine have approval in the US; Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson.</p>

<p>Experts in the panel voted 21 in favour of Novavax vaccine. There was one abstention and no vote against the vaccine. There have been concerns that Novavax vaccine is linked to rare cases of heart inflammation.</p>

<p>It is expected that US Food and Drug Administration will issue emergency authorisation soon. Then another agency, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, will weigh in with guidance on how it should best be used.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maryland-based Novavax was an early frontrunner in the global vaccine race, but fell behind after being hit by manufacturing and regulatory delays.</p>

<p>The US was one of the few major markets where it hasn't yet received authorization, while the EU, UK, Canada, Australia are among many that have already given it the green light.</p>

<p>The vaccine is based on lab-grown viral proteins. Officials are hoping that Novavax will help people overcome vaccine hesitancy. The vaccine does not need cold storage requirements as Pfizer and Moerna vaccines do.</p>

<p><strong>Possible myocarditis link</strong></p>

<p>Novavax's vaccine was found to be more than 90 percent effective against symptomatic cases of the disease. But its trial was conducted long before the currently circulating sub variants of Omicron were dominant, and the company may yet have to add a booster or update its shot.</p>

<p>What's more, six cases of myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, were detected in the group that received the vaccine, against one case in the placebo group, in a trial of around 40,000 people.</p>

<p>Novavax says there is insufficient evidence to establish a causal relationship between the cases of myocarditis and the vaccine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>

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A panel of experts in the US has given a go ahead for Novavax Covid vaccine. The panel was convened by US drug regulator. Although a late runner in global combat against Covid, Novavax can help efforts to overcome vaccine hesitancy.

A panel of experts in the US has given a go ahead for Novavax Covid vaccine. The panel was convened by US drug regulator. Although a late runner in global combat against Covid, Novavax can help efforts to overcome vaccine hesitancy. Right now, three vaccine have approval in the US; Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. Experts in the panel voted 21 in favour of Novavax vaccine. There was one abstention and no vote against the vaccine. There have been concerns that Novavax vaccine is linked to rare cases of heart inflammation. It is expected that US Food and Drug Administration will issue emergency authorisation soon. Then another agency, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, will weigh in with guidance on how it should best be used. Maryland-based Novavax was an early frontrunner in the global vaccine race, but fell behind after being hit by manufacturing and regulatory delays. The US was one of the few major markets where it hasn't yet received authorization, while the EU, UK, Canada, Australia are among many that have already given it the green light. The vaccine is based on lab-grown viral proteins. Officials are hoping that Novavax will help people overcome vaccine hesitancy. The vaccine does not need cold storage requirements as Pfizer and Moerna vaccines do. Possible myocarditis link Novavax's vaccine was found to be more than 90 percent effective against symptomatic cases of the disease. But its trial was conducted long before the currently circulating sub variants of Omicron were dominant, and the company may yet have to add a booster or update its shot. What's more, six cases of myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, were detected in the group that received the vaccine, against one case in the placebo group, in a trial of around 40,000 people. Novavax says there is insufficient evidence to establish a causal relationship between the cases of myocarditis and the vaccine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US expert panel gives go-ahead to Novavax Covid vaccine

At the QUAD Summit, leaders of Australia, Japan and the U.S. praised India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi for New Delhi's vaccine diplomacy. As the leaders met in Tokyo, China and Russia conducted a joint drill over the Sea of Japan. Palki Sharma brings you the summit's highlights.

Gravitas: Quad leaders praise India's vaccine diplomacy

<p>Pfizer has said that the three-dose vaccine created by them has shown 80 per cent effectiveness against the Omicron COVID-19 infection among children aged between six months and five years.</p>

<p>This is good news for parents as cases continue to rise once again around the world and according to the timeline presented by Pfizer, the vaccine is expected to be authorised by July this year. The company said in its statement that the vaccine has produced extremely positive results in the tests till now and if authorised, the vaccine will comprise of three shots of three micrograms each.</p>

<p>“We are pleased that our formulation for the youngest children, which we carefully selected to be one-tenth of the dose strength for adults, was well tolerated and produced a strong immune response,” said Albert Bourla, Pfizer's chairman and chief executive officer in the statement.</p>

<p>The development meant that Pfizer are closer to getting an emergency use authorisation for the vaccine and according to ABC News, the FDA will be reviewing their application on June 21 and 22.</p>

<p>If authorised, the company will be able to release the vaccine in the market by July and according to experts, the high efficacy against symptomatic COVID-19 infection can be great news for patients.</p>

<p>However, Pfizer has made it clear that the results are preliminary and they will be conducting more tests in the future. They also warned that there can be some side effects from the vaccines in all age groups and they are looking to test it on a larger sample to verify all of their results.</p>


Pfizer has said that the three-dose vaccine created by them has shown 80 per cent effectiveness against the Omicron COVID-19 infection among children aged between six months and five years.

Pfizer has said that the three-dose vaccine created by them has shown 80 per cent effectiveness against the Omicron COVID-19 infection among children aged between six months and five years. This is good news for parents as cases continue to rise once again around the world and according to the timeline presented by Pfizer, the vaccine is expected to be authorised by July this year. The company said in its statement that the vaccine has produced extremely positive results in the tests till now and if authorised, the vaccine will comprise of three shots of three micrograms each. “We are pleased that our formulation for the youngest children, which we carefully selected to be one-tenth of the dose strength for adults, was well tolerated and produced a strong immune response,” said Albert Bourla, Pfizer's chairman and chief executive officer in the statement. The development meant that Pfizer are closer to getting an emergency use authorisation for the vaccine and according to ABC News, the FDA will be reviewing their application on June 21 and 22. If authorised, the company will be able to release the vaccine in the market by July and according to experts, the high efficacy against symptomatic COVID-19 infection can be great news for patients. However, Pfizer has made it clear that the results are preliminary and they will be conducting more tests in the future. They also warned that there can be some side effects from the vaccines in all age groups and they are looking to test it on a larger sample to verify all of their results.

Pfizer 3-dose COVID-19 vaccine 80 per cent effective in kids aged under five

Covid vaccines for children under the age of five in the United States is still not available even as the country lifted some if its masking restrictions. Many parents are upset as even after a year Biden government has failed to get vaccines for children.

No vaccine for Children: Covid cases in kids are surging in US, parents rally for FDA review

Parents gathered in front of the US FDA headquarters with posters and signs urging to prioritize young children and review data without delay.

US: Parents rally for vaccine for young children

<p>Moderna has formally submitted a request to the Food and Drug Administration for approval of two doses of its COVID-19 vaccine in children fewer than six years old, beginning a long-awaited government review process that might soon see the first vaccines for these youngest Americans approved.</p>

<p>Moderna's request is based on data released in March that showed two 25-microgram doses of their vaccine were effective in this age range. These are lower amounts than the two 100-microgram doses given to adults.</p>

<p>In a statement, Stéphane Bancel, Moderna's CEO, said the vaccine will be able to safely protect these children against SARS-CoV-2, which is so important in our continued fight against COVID-19, and will be especially welcomed by parents and caregivers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the business, they found a "strong neutralising antibody response" and a "favourable safety profile" in two groups of children: 6 months to 23 months old and 2 years old to under 6 years old.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed</strong></p>

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<p>Moderna claims that its vaccination efficacy against infection was 51 percent in infants under the age of two and 37 percent in children aged two to five years old, according to a preliminary study of lab tests collected during the Omicron wave.</p>

<p>According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and several independent infectious disease specialists, more parents should vaccinate and boost their children's immune systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even while the omicron surge has subsided and children are less likely to become really ill, the virus can still be dangerous.</p>

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Moderna has formally submitted a request to the Food and Drug Administration for approval of two doses of its COVID-19 vaccine in children fewer than six years old, beginning a long-awaited government review process that might soon see the first vaccines for these youngest Americans approved.

Moderna has formally submitted a request to the Food and Drug Administration for approval of two doses of its COVID-19 vaccine in children fewer than six years old, beginning a long-awaited government review process that might soon see the first vaccines for these youngest Americans approved. Moderna's request is based on data released in March that showed two 25-microgram doses of their vaccine were effective in this age range. These are lower amounts than the two 100-microgram doses given to adults. In a statement, Stéphane Bancel, Moderna's CEO, said the vaccine will be able to safely protect these children against SARS-CoV-2, which is so important in our continued fight against COVID-19, and will be especially welcomed by parents and caregivers. According to the business, they found a "strong neutralising antibody response" and a "favourable safety profile" in two groups of children: 6 months to 23 months old and 2 years old to under 6 years old. Watch | If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed Moderna claims that its vaccination efficacy against infection was 51 percent in infants under the age of two and 37 percent in children aged two to five years old, according to a preliminary study of lab tests collected during the Omicron wave. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and several independent infectious disease specialists, more parents should vaccinate and boost their children's immune systems. Even while the omicron surge has subsided and children are less likely to become really ill, the virus can still be dangerous. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Moderna asks FDA to authorise its COVID vaccine for children younger than 6

According to a new study, unvaccinated people are a threat to the safety of those who are vaccinated against coronavirus (COVID-19). Researchers explored the effect of mixing between unvaccinated and vaccinated people to understand the dynamics of an infectious disease. When vaccinated and unvaccinated people were mixed, a substantial number of new infections would occur in the vaccinated people. Read details here: https://www.wionews.com/science/unvaccinated-people-pose-a-threat-to-those-inoculated-against-covid-19-study-473685

If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed

<p>The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced on Friday that prophylactic doses (booster doses) of the COVID-19 vaccine will be available for all adults starting on Sunday, April 10, at private vaccination centres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All those who are over 18 years of age and have completed 9 months after the administration of the second dose, will be eligible for a precaution dose. The government said in a release that this facility would be available in all private vaccination centres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry also stated that the ongoing "free vaccination programme" at government vaccination centres, which includes vaccinating eligible people with the first and second doses of vaccines, as well as providing precaution doses to healthcare workers, frontline workers, and senior citizens (those over 60 years old), would be continued and accelerated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The third dose will be the same as the second dose, so those who had Covaxin will receive Covaxin, and those who had Covishield will receive a Covishield third dose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Union Health Ministry, around 96 percent of people over the age of 15 have gotten at least one COVID-19 vaccine shot, with approximately 83 percent receiving both doses.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India approves 2 more COVID-19 vaccines and an anti-covid pill Molnupiravir</strong></p>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<p>According to the report, more than 24 million prophylactic doses have been given to healthcare staff, frontline workers, and people over the age of 60, according to the report.</p>

<p>In addition, 45 percent of the population aged 12 to 14 received the first dose.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | India to vaccinate 12-14 year old against COVID-19</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced on Friday that prophylactic doses (booster doses) of the COVID-19 vaccine will be available for all adults starting on Sunday, April 10, at private vaccination centres.

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced on Friday that prophylactic doses (booster doses) of the COVID-19 vaccine will be available for all adults starting on Sunday, April 10, at private vaccination centres. All those who are over 18 years of age and have completed 9 months after the administration of the second dose, will be eligible for a precaution dose. The government said in a release that this facility would be available in all private vaccination centres. The ministry also stated that the ongoing "free vaccination programme" at government vaccination centres, which includes vaccinating eligible people with the first and second doses of vaccines, as well as providing precaution doses to healthcare workers, frontline workers, and senior citizens (those over 60 years old), would be continued and accelerated. The third dose will be the same as the second dose, so those who had Covaxin will receive Covaxin, and those who had Covishield will receive a Covishield third dose. According to the Union Health Ministry, around 96 percent of people over the age of 15 have gotten at least one COVID-19 vaccine shot, with approximately 83 percent receiving both doses. Watch | India approves 2 more COVID-19 vaccines and an anti-covid pill Molnupiravir According to the report, more than 24 million prophylactic doses have been given to healthcare staff, frontline workers, and people over the age of 60, according to the report. In addition, 45 percent of the population aged 12 to 14 received the first dose. Watch | India to vaccinate 12-14 year old against COVID-19 (With inputs from agencies)

India: From April 10, all above 18 years eligible for booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine

<p>Hackers linked to North Korea were suspected of carrying out a cyberattack on South Koreans through emails disguised as official messages sent from a medical journal calling on recipients to book appointments for a new coronavirus vaccine, a South Korean cybersecurity company said in a statement Friday.</p>

<p>The cyberattack, which came less than a week after North Korea conducted its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile test to date, was sent from an email address belonging to the Korean Society for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, the company said. This was possible because the hackers had infiltrated the medical journal’s server and email account in what the company, ESTsecurity, called a phishing attack.</p>

<p>“We have confirmed that the camouflage methods and tactical commands used to steal the account exactly matched the other cases of cyberattacks linked to North Korea,” the company said, adding that the email’s header contained a code found in previous attacks that analysts have linked to North Korea.</p>

<p>Previously, North Korean hackers have used cyberattacks on governments, companies and financial institutions to steal information and millions of dollars to fund their own government. ESTsecurity has also attributed to North Korea similar phishing attacks sent from email addresses belonging to agencies such as the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Unification.</p>

<p>The latest email attack targeted mostly South Koreans working in fields dealing with North Korea, the company said, and appeared to be designed to trick the recipients into providing personal information to the hackers by making them believe they were registering for the new vaccine.</p>

<p>A screenshot of the email included in ESTsecurity’s statement showed language advertising “the newest COVID-19 vaccine,” information on when it would be available to “purchase” and a link that the company said was disguised as a vaccine registration site.</p>

<p>“On March 25, 2022, the vaccine was researched and developed by the N.I.H., a national medical research institute under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,” the email said, adding that the new vaccine was effective for people ages 65 and older against new variants, including delta and omicron. The emails were sent Tuesday.</p>


Hackers linked to North Korea were suspected of carrying out a cyberattack on South Koreans through emails disguised as official messages sent from a medical journal calling on recipients to book appointments for a new coronavirus vaccine, a South Korean cybersecurity company said in a statement Friday.

Hackers linked to North Korea were suspected of carrying out a cyberattack on South Koreans through emails disguised as official messages sent from a medical journal calling on recipients to book appointments for a new coronavirus vaccine, a South Korean cybersecurity company said in a statement Friday. The cyberattack, which came less than a week after North Korea conducted its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile test to date, was sent from an email address belonging to the Korean Society for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, the company said. This was possible because the hackers had infiltrated the medical journal’s server and email account in what the company, ESTsecurity, called a phishing attack. “We have confirmed that the camouflage methods and tactical commands used to steal the account exactly matched the other cases of cyberattacks linked to North Korea,” the company said, adding that the email’s header contained a code found in previous attacks that analysts have linked to North Korea. Previously, North Korean hackers have used cyberattacks on governments, companies and financial institutions to steal information and millions of dollars to fund their own government. ESTsecurity has also attributed to North Korea similar phishing attacks sent from email addresses belonging to agencies such as the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Unification. The latest email attack targeted mostly South Koreans working in fields dealing with North Korea, the company said, and appeared to be designed to trick the recipients into providing personal information to the hackers by making them believe they were registering for the new vaccine. A screenshot of the email included in ESTsecurity’s statement showed language advertising “the newest COVID-19 vaccine,” information on when it would be available to “purchase” and a link that the company said was disguised as a vaccine registration site. “On March 25, 2022, the vaccine was researched and developed by the N.I.H., a national medical research institute under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,” the email said, adding that the new vaccine was effective for people ages 65 and older against new variants, including delta and omicron. The emails were sent Tuesday.

North Korea is linked to a cyberattack disguised as a Covid vaccine

Do you know someone who has never been infected with coronavirus since the beginning of the pandemic? How did some health professionals avoid falling ill despite daily contact with Covid-19 patients? A study by Sweden's University of Gothenburg may provide some clues.

Hidden immunity: Study gives clues on how some escape Covid-19 infection

<p>Covid vaccination for the 12-14 age group and precautionary doses for those above 60 kicked off across India on Wednesday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging people to turn up in large numbers and get themselves vaccinated.</p>

<p>While India initially started the Covid immunisation programme for adults aged 60 and above, the drive was gradually expanded to cover those aged 15 to 17 years from January 3.</p>

<p>Covaxin is being administered for those aged 15 to 17, while indigenous Cobervax vaccine is being given to the 12-14 age group, where 6 to 6.5 million youngers are expected to be covered.</p>

<p>Two doses of Biological E's intramuscular vaccine Corbevax would be administered to the beneficiaries in the 12 to 14 years age group in an interval of 28 days, the guidelines said</p>

<p>In a tweet, PM Modi called the vaccination for the adolescent groups an ''important step'' in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-becomes-first-country-in-world-to-administer-covid-19-dna-vaccine-450750">India becomes first country in world to administer COVID-19 DNA vaccine</a></p>

<p>“Today is an important day in India’s efforts to vaccinate our citizens. Now onwards, youngsters in the 12-14 age group are eligible for vaccines &amp; all those above 60 are eligible for precaution doses. I urge people in these age groups to get vaccinated,” PM Modi said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today is an important day in India’s efforts to vaccinate our citizens. Now onwards, youngsters in the 12-14 age group are eligible for vaccines and all those above 60 are eligible for precaution doses. I urge people in these age groups to get vaccinated.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1503949505699336197?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Recalling the initial days of the programme where India fought vaccine hesitancy&nbsp;and shortage, Modi said the country is now in a much better position to fight this deadly pandemic, while urging people to follow all precautions.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“Today, India has many ‘Made in India’ vaccines. We have also granted approval to other vaccines after a due process of evaluation. We are in a much better position to fight this deadly pandemic. At the same time, we have to keep following all Covid-19 precautions,” he tweeted on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-were-pfizer-and-moderna-vaccines-not-available-in-india-health-minister-responds-454466">Why were Pfizer and Moderna vaccines not available in India? Health minister responds</a></p>

<p>The Union government has asked states to organise dedicated COVID-19 vaccination sessions through earmarked centres and train vaccinators to avoid mixing of vaccines during the inoculation of adolescents.&nbsp;The states were also advised to ensure judicious utilisation of available COVID-19 vaccines.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Covid vaccination for the 12-14 age group and precautionary doses for those above 60 kicked off across India on Wednesday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging people to turn up in large numbers and get themselves vaccinated.

Covid vaccination for the 12-14 age group and precautionary doses for those above 60 kicked off across India on Wednesday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging people to turn up in large numbers and get themselves vaccinated. While India initially started the Covid immunisation programme for adults aged 60 and above, the drive was gradually expanded to cover those aged 15 to 17 years from January 3. Covaxin is being administered for those aged 15 to 17, while indigenous Cobervax vaccine is being given to the 12-14 age group, where 6 to 6.5 million youngers are expected to be covered. Two doses of Biological E's intramuscular vaccine Corbevax would be administered to the beneficiaries in the 12 to 14 years age group in an interval of 28 days, the guidelines said In a tweet, PM Modi called the vaccination for the adolescent groups an ''important step'' in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read | India becomes first country in world to administer COVID-19 DNA vaccine “Today is an important day in India’s efforts to vaccinate our citizens. Now onwards, youngsters in the 12-14 age group are eligible for vaccines & all those above 60 are eligible for precaution doses. I urge people in these age groups to get vaccinated,” PM Modi said. Today is an important day in India’s efforts to vaccinate our citizens. Now onwards, youngsters in the 12-14 age group are eligible for vaccines and all those above 60 are eligible for precaution doses. I urge people in these age groups to get vaccinated. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2022 × Recalling the initial days of the programme where India fought vaccine hesitancy and shortage, Modi said the country is now in a much better position to fight this deadly pandemic, while urging people to follow all precautions. “Today, India has many ‘Made in India’ vaccines. We have also granted approval to other vaccines after a due process of evaluation. We are in a much better position to fight this deadly pandemic. At the same time, we have to keep following all Covid-19 precautions,” he tweeted on Wednesday. Also read | Why were Pfizer and Moderna vaccines not available in India? Health minister responds The Union government has asked states to organise dedicated COVID-19 vaccination sessions through earmarked centres and train vaccinators to avoid mixing of vaccines during the inoculation of adolescents. The states were also advised to ensure judicious utilisation of available COVID-19 vaccines. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi urges children to get vaccinated as India starts inoculation drive for 12-14 age group

New York City has lifted the major COVID-19 protocols including the school mask mandate and vaccination requirements for businesses. Restaurants and indoor venues, including restaurants, theaters and gyms, no longer have to require proof of vaccination.

New York City lifts COVID-19 vaccine and mask mandates

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="39">In January, COVAX, the global vaccine programme run by Gavi and the World Health Organization (WHO), had 436 million vaccines to allocate to countries, according to a document published in mid-February.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="41">The global project to share Covid-19 vaccines is struggling to place more than 300 million doses in the latest sign the problem with vaccinating the world is now more about demand than supply.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="42">Last year, wealthy nations snapped most of the available shots to inoculate their own citizens first, meaning less than a third of people in low-income countries have been vaccinated so far compared with more than 70% in richer nations.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="43">As supply and donations have ramped up, however, poorer nations are facing hurdles such as gaps in cold-chain shortage, vaccine hesitancy and a lack of money to support distribution networks, public health officials told Reuters.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="44">In January, COVAX, the global vaccine programme run by Gavi and the World Health Organization (WHO), had 436 million vaccines to allocate to countries, according to a document published in mid-February.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="45">But low-income nations only asked for 100 million doses for distribution by the end of May - the first time in 14 allocation rounds that supply has outstripped demand, the document from the COVAX Independent Allocation of Vaccines Group said.</p>

<p>Asked to comment, a Gavi spokesperson said COVAX was now in a situation where there was enough current supply to meet demand, but acknowledged that the roll-out of vaccines was an issue in several less developed nations.</p>

<p>“We will only close the vaccine equity gap once and for all if we are able to help countries roll out vaccines rapidly and at scale,” the spokesperson said.</p>

<p>Vaccines that are not assigned by COVAX in this round can be allocated again later.</p>

<p>While wealthy countries are opening up their economies, the WHO and other public health experts warn that the slow roll-out of vaccines in poorer regions will give the coronavirus a chance to mutate again and potentially create new variants.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="48"><strong>Fridges and freezers</strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="49">The low demand for vaccines in the January allocation is partly explained by recent increases in supplies. COVAX has already assigned tens of millions of doses to be delivered in the first quarter and delivered its billionth dose in January.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="50">Officials involved in vaccine distribution said that meant countries were reluctant to take on more doses that they would not be able to use.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="51">A summit to address distribution challenges is taking place on Wednesday in Abuja, Nigeria, convened by the African Union's Africa Vaccine Delivery Alliance with WHO, Gavi and others rolling out shots across Africa attending.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="52">There had been hopes that African countries would be able to administer billions of doses of COVID-19 vaccines given their experience in dealing with deadly diseases from Ebola to malaria.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="53">But two years into the crisis, a survey seen by Reuters by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in January on the equipment needed to ramp up vaccine distribution highlighted some of the challenges.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="54">It found "critical gaps" across 44 of the African Union’s 55 member states: 24 countries said they needed fridges, 18 were in need of deep freezers, 22 required walk-in freezers and 16 did not have sufficient walk-in cold rooms.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="55">A UNICEF spokesperson said more than 800 ultra-cold chain freezers had already been delivered to nearly 70 countries, as well as 52,000 fridges.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="56">"We are continuing to help countries identify and close cold chain capacity gaps as supply increases and governments adjust national-level vaccination targets in response," she said.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="57"><strong>Disinformation and funding</strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="58">The problem is particularly acute for COVAX because the Pfizer-BioNTech shot that needs to be kept super-cold has replaced AstraZeneca's vaccine as the main one being offered by the global program.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="59">Some African countries, such as Burundi and Guinea, have gaps at every point in the cold chain, from national level to local distribution centers, the UNICEF survey showed.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="60">The findings are likely to underscore growing concerns that COVAX did not invest quickly enough in infrastructure and equipment for countries it was delivering vaccines to.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="61">The issue is exacerbated by a lack of funding and because countries have not had enough notice of deliveries - particularly donations - making it harder for them to plan vaccination campaigns, public health officials have said.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="62">Officials involved in the distribution of vaccines in Africa also said more focus needed to be placed on communicating the importance of getting vaccinated - and addressing disinformation.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="63">"Communication is one of the biggest issues ... if we don’t get the messaging right, everything else we are doing is futile," one of the officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="64">Money has also started to dry up for global initiatives as richer nations seek to move on from COVID.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="65">Gavi says it has only raised $195 million out of the $5.2 billion it has asked for this quarter. The money is used to procure and ship vaccines, as well as provide syringes and delivery support in countries.</p>


In January, COVAX, the global vaccine programme run by Gavi and the World Health Organization (WHO), had 436 million vaccines to allocate to countries, according to a document published in mid-February.

In January, COVAX, the global vaccine programme run by Gavi and the World Health Organization (WHO), had 436 million vaccines to allocate to countries, according to a document published in mid-February. The global project to share Covid-19 vaccines is struggling to place more than 300 million doses in the latest sign the problem with vaccinating the world is now more about demand than supply. Last year, wealthy nations snapped most of the available shots to inoculate their own citizens first, meaning less than a third of people in low-income countries have been vaccinated so far compared with more than 70% in richer nations. As supply and donations have ramped up, however, poorer nations are facing hurdles such as gaps in cold-chain shortage, vaccine hesitancy and a lack of money to support distribution networks, public health officials told Reuters. In January, COVAX, the global vaccine programme run by Gavi and the World Health Organization (WHO), had 436 million vaccines to allocate to countries, according to a document published in mid-February. But low-income nations only asked for 100 million doses for distribution by the end of May - the first time in 14 allocation rounds that supply has outstripped demand, the document from the COVAX Independent Allocation of Vaccines Group said. Asked to comment, a Gavi spokesperson said COVAX was now in a situation where there was enough current supply to meet demand, but acknowledged that the roll-out of vaccines was an issue in several less developed nations. “We will only close the vaccine equity gap once and for all if we are able to help countries roll out vaccines rapidly and at scale,” the spokesperson said. Vaccines that are not assigned by COVAX in this round can be allocated again later. While wealthy countries are opening up their economies, the WHO and other public health experts warn that the slow roll-out of vaccines in poorer regions will give the coronavirus a chance to mutate again and potentially create new variants. Fridges and freezers The low demand for vaccines in the January allocation is partly explained by recent increases in supplies. COVAX has already assigned tens of millions of doses to be delivered in the first quarter and delivered its billionth dose in January. Officials involved in vaccine distribution said that meant countries were reluctant to take on more doses that they would not be able to use. A summit to address distribution challenges is taking place on Wednesday in Abuja, Nigeria, convened by the African Union's Africa Vaccine Delivery Alliance with WHO, Gavi and others rolling out shots across Africa attending. There had been hopes that African countries would be able to administer billions of doses of COVID-19 vaccines given their experience in dealing with deadly diseases from Ebola to malaria. But two years into the crisis, a survey seen by Reuters by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in January on the equipment needed to ramp up vaccine distribution highlighted some of the challenges. It found "critical gaps" across 44 of the African Union’s 55 member states: 24 countries said they needed fridges, 18 were in need of deep freezers, 22 required walk-in freezers and 16 did not have sufficient walk-in cold rooms. A UNICEF spokesperson said more than 800 ultra-cold chain freezers had already been delivered to nearly 70 countries, as well as 52,000 fridges. "We are continuing to help countries identify and close cold chain capacity gaps as supply increases and governments adjust national-level vaccination targets in response," she said. Disinformation and funding The problem is particularly acute for COVAX because the Pfizer-BioNTech shot that needs to be kept super-cold has replaced AstraZeneca's vaccine as the main one being offered by the global program. Some African countries, such as Burundi and Guinea, have gaps at every point in the cold chain, from national level to local distribution centers, the UNICEF survey showed. The findings are likely to underscore growing concerns that COVAX did not invest quickly enough in infrastructure and equipment for countries it was delivering vaccines to. The issue is exacerbated by a lack of funding and because countries have not had enough notice of deliveries - particularly donations - making it harder for them to plan vaccination campaigns, public health officials have said. Officials involved in the distribution of vaccines in Africa also said more focus needed to be placed on communicating the importance of getting vaccinated - and addressing disinformation. "Communication is one of the biggest issues ... if we don’t get the messaging right, everything else we are doing is futile," one of the officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Money has also started to dry up for global initiatives as richer nations seek to move on from COVID. Gavi says it has only raised $195 million out of the $5.2 billion it has asked for this quarter. The money is used to procure and ship vaccines, as well as provide syringes and delivery support in countries.

Covid vaccine supply outstrips demand for the first time

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="30">US health regulators delayed the review of Pfizer Inc's COVID-19 vaccine for children under 5 years of age because its two-dose regimen did not work well against the Omicron variant, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="31">Last week, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said it needed more data on the vaccine, delaying its decision for using the vaccine in children 6 months through 4 years of age for at least two months.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="32">An early look at data showed the vaccine to be effective against the Delta variant during testing while that was the dominant strain, but some vaccinated children developed COVID-19 after Omicron emerged, the report said, citing people familiar with the FDA's decision.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="33">However, since the overall COVID-19 cases were low, the small number of Omicron cases made the vaccine appear less effective in an early statistical analysis, the report added.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="34">The FDA did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="35">Pfizer and BioNTech had submitted data on the first two doses of a planned three-dose regimen earlier this month at the request of the FDA. Pfizer did not disclose efficacy data.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="36">The submission was surprising because in December, the companies said early trial results of the two low doses of the vaccine fell short of expectations, and the clinical trial was amended to test a three-dose version.</p>


US health regulators delayed the review of Pfizer Inc's COVID-19 vaccine for children under 5 years of age because its two-dose regimen did not work well against the Omicron variant, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.

US health regulators delayed the review of Pfizer Inc's COVID-19 vaccine for children under 5 years of age because its two-dose regimen did not work well against the Omicron variant, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday. Last week, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said it needed more data on the vaccine, delaying its decision for using the vaccine in children 6 months through 4 years of age for at least two months. An early look at data showed the vaccine to be effective against the Delta variant during testing while that was the dominant strain, but some vaccinated children developed COVID-19 after Omicron emerged, the report said, citing people familiar with the FDA's decision. However, since the overall COVID-19 cases were low, the small number of Omicron cases made the vaccine appear less effective in an early statistical analysis, the report added. The FDA did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. Pfizer and BioNTech had submitted data on the first two doses of a planned three-dose regimen earlier this month at the request of the FDA. Pfizer did not disclose efficacy data. The submission was surprising because in December, the companies said early trial results of the two low doses of the vaccine fell short of expectations, and the clinical trial was amended to test a three-dose version.

Low Omicron efficacy behind delay of Pfizer COVID vaccine for kids under 5: WSJ

As anti-vaccination protests continue in Canada similar storm is now growing in New York. Thousands of New York city municipal employees face termination without proof as Covid-19 vaccination deadline ends.

NYC's municipal workers face termination over covid-19 vaccine status

The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) granted emergency use authorisation to Sputnik Light in India, making it the first single-dose COVID-19 vaccine to be approved for use in the country.

DCGI grants emergency use permission to single-dose Sputnik Light Covid-19 vaccine

<p>The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Sunday granted emergency use permission to Sputnik Light Covid vaccine. Announcement about the single-dose vaccine was made by Mansukh Mandaviya, India's Health Minister.</p>

<p>"DCGI has granted emergency use permission to single-dose Sputnik Light COVID-19 vaccine in India. This is the ninth COVID-19 vaccine in the country. This will further strengthen the nation's collective fight against the pandemic," Mandaviya tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DCGI has granted emergency use permission to Single-dose Sputnik Light COVID-19 vaccine in India.<br />
<br />
This is the 9th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> vaccine in the country.<br />
<br />
This will further strengthen the nation's collective fight against the pandemic.</p>
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1490339254450282497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The go-ahead came after recommendations of an expert panel &nbsp;of India's central drug authority&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sputnik-Light is the same as component-1 of Sputnik V.</p>

<p>An official source said in light of recommendations of Subject Expert Committee (SEC) following a meeting on January 31, Dr Reddy's Laboratories presented its proposal for grant of permission to import Sputnik Light for restricted emergency use and booster dose vaccination along with analysis of safety and efficacy data including its benefit against Omicron.</p>

<p>The firm presented that Sputnik Light vaccine is approved in 29 countries, including Russia and Argentina.</p>

<p>"The SEC on COVID-19 of the CDSCO, which deliberated on the application by Dr Reddy's Laboratories, noted the safety and immunogenicity data presented by the firm from the Indian study is comparable with that of the ongoing Phase-3 clinical trial interim data from Russia," the source said.</p>

<p>The interim data of efficacy trial from Russia has shown 65.4 per cent efficacy, 21 days after immunization.</p>

<p>"After detailed deliberation, the SEC had recommended grant of permission for restricted use in emergency situation subject to various regulatory provisions including," the source said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Sunday granted emergency use permission to Sputnik Light Covid vaccine. Announcement about the single-dose vaccine was made by Mansukh Mandaviya, India's Health Minister.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on Sunday granted emergency use permission to Sputnik Light Covid vaccine. Announcement about the single-dose vaccine was made by Mansukh Mandaviya, India's Health Minister. "DCGI has granted emergency use permission to single-dose Sputnik Light COVID-19 vaccine in India. This is the ninth COVID-19 vaccine in the country. This will further strengthen the nation's collective fight against the pandemic," Mandaviya tweeted. DCGI has granted emergency use permission to Single-dose Sputnik Light COVID-19 vaccine in India. This is the 9th #COVID19 vaccine in the country. This will further strengthen the nation's collective fight against the pandemic. — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) February 6, 2022 × The go-ahead came after recommendations of an expert panel of India's central drug authority Sputnik-Light is the same as component-1 of Sputnik V. An official source said in light of recommendations of Subject Expert Committee (SEC) following a meeting on January 31, Dr Reddy's Laboratories presented its proposal for grant of permission to import Sputnik Light for restricted emergency use and booster dose vaccination along with analysis of safety and efficacy data including its benefit against Omicron. The firm presented that Sputnik Light vaccine is approved in 29 countries, including Russia and Argentina. "The SEC on COVID-19 of the CDSCO, which deliberated on the application by Dr Reddy's Laboratories, noted the safety and immunogenicity data presented by the firm from the Indian study is comparable with that of the ongoing Phase-3 clinical trial interim data from Russia," the source said. The interim data of efficacy trial from Russia has shown 65.4 per cent efficacy, 21 days after immunization. "After detailed deliberation, the SEC had recommended grant of permission for restricted use in emergency situation subject to various regulatory provisions including," the source said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian regulator grants emergency use permission to Sputnik Light Covid vaccine

<p>Hours after Evangeline Lilly shared photos from an anti-vaccine mandate protest rally that took place in Washington DC, 'Shang Chi' actor Simu Liu &nbsp;slammed the actress and requested media "to stop spotlighting opinuions that are "not rooted in facts or science.”</p>

<p>Evangeline, who plays the role of Hope van Dyne in the Marvel film 'Ant-Man', posted pictures of protesters with different sign boards against vaccine mandates.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In the photos, the protestors could be seen holding signboards that read, 'Vaxxed Democrat for Medical freedom,' 'Defeat the mandates,' and 'Feds for medical freedom.'<br />
<br />
She also posted a quote of Naval Ravikant which reads, “All tyranny begins with the desire to coerce others for the greater good.”<br />
<br />
Hours after the actress shared her thoughts on Instagram, 'Shang-Chi' actor Simu Liu tweeted about people whose opinions are not rooted in science.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“I lost my grandparents to COVID last year. They were still waiting for their vaccines. I'm fortunate to have been double-vaccinated and boosted when I got COVID 2 weeks ago. Felt like a cold. The media needs to stop spotlighting opinions that are not rooted in facts or science.”<br />
<br />
"As a @UNICEFCanada ambassador I have seen the organization's efforts to deliver vaccines to underprivileged families around the world. It's a reminder of how lucky we are to be living in places where vaccine delivery and storage are not an issue. Please, PLEASE appreciate that," the actor further wrote.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As a <a href="https://twitter.com/UNICEFCanada?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNICEFCanada</a> ambassador I have seen the organization's efforts to deliver vaccines to underprivileged families around the world. It's a reminder of how lucky we are to be living in places where vaccine delivery and storage are not an issue. Please, PLEASE appreciate that.</p>
— Simu Liu (刘思慕) (@SimuLiu) <a href="https://twitter.com/SimuLiu/status/1486933066132066312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Actor David Dastmalchian, who played the character of Abner Krill/Polka-Dot Man in 'The Suicide Squad' seem to have echoes Simu Liu's thoughts as he too tweeted, "It’s so unfortunate when people with a large platform use that platform to share irresponsible things."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Evangeline Lilly had shared a long post as she had shared photos from the site. Stating that "nobody should ever be forced to inject their body with anything, against their will" the actress wrote, "I was in DC this weekend to support bodily sovereignty while Canadian truckers were rallying for their cross-country, peaceful convoy in support of the same thing. I believe nobody should ever be forced to inject their body with anything, against their will, under threat of: violent attack, arrest or detention without trial, loss of employment, homelessness, starvation, loss of education, alienation from loved ones, excommunication from society and under any threat whatsoever.”<br />
<br />
She added, “This is not the way. This is not safe. This is not healthy. This is not love. I understand the world is in fear, but I don’t believe that answering fear with force will fix our problems. I was pro-choice before COVID and I am still pro-choice today.”&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Many on the comment section of the post slammed the actress for her stand while others tried reason that she was not anti-vaccine but against the mandate.&nbsp;</p>


Hours after Evangeline Lilly shared photos from an anti-vaccine mandate protest rally that took place in Washington DC, 'Shang Chi' actor Simu Liu slammed the actress and requested media "to stop spotlighting opinuions that are "not rooted in facts or science.

Hours after Evangeline Lilly shared photos from an anti-vaccine mandate protest rally that took place in Washington DC, 'Shang Chi' actor Simu Liu slammed the actress and requested media "to stop spotlighting opinuions that are "not rooted in facts or science.” Evangeline, who plays the role of Hope van Dyne in the Marvel film 'Ant-Man', posted pictures of protesters with different sign boards against vaccine mandates. In the photos, the protestors could be seen holding signboards that read, 'Vaxxed Democrat for Medical freedom,' 'Defeat the mandates,' and 'Feds for medical freedom.' She also posted a quote of Naval Ravikant which reads, “All tyranny begins with the desire to coerce others for the greater good.” Hours after the actress shared her thoughts on Instagram, 'Shang-Chi' actor Simu Liu tweeted about people whose opinions are not rooted in science. “I lost my grandparents to COVID last year. They were still waiting for their vaccines. I'm fortunate to have been double-vaccinated and boosted when I got COVID 2 weeks ago. Felt like a cold. The media needs to stop spotlighting opinions that are not rooted in facts or science.” "As a @UNICEFCanada ambassador I have seen the organization's efforts to deliver vaccines to underprivileged families around the world. It's a reminder of how lucky we are to be living in places where vaccine delivery and storage are not an issue. Please, PLEASE appreciate that," the actor further wrote. As a @UNICEFCanada ambassador I have seen the organization's efforts to deliver vaccines to underprivileged families around the world. It's a reminder of how lucky we are to be living in places where vaccine delivery and storage are not an issue. Please, PLEASE appreciate that. — Simu Liu (刘思慕) (@SimuLiu) January 28, 2022 × Actor David Dastmalchian, who played the character of Abner Krill/Polka-Dot Man in 'The Suicide Squad' seem to have echoes Simu Liu's thoughts as he too tweeted, "It’s so unfortunate when people with a large platform use that platform to share irresponsible things." Evangeline Lilly had shared a long post as she had shared photos from the site. Stating that "nobody should ever be forced to inject their body with anything, against their will" the actress wrote, "I was in DC this weekend to support bodily sovereignty while Canadian truckers were rallying for their cross-country, peaceful convoy in support of the same thing. I believe nobody should ever be forced to inject their body with anything, against their will, under threat of: violent attack, arrest or detention without trial, loss of employment, homelessness, starvation, loss of education, alienation from loved ones, excommunication from society and under any threat whatsoever.” She added, “This is not the way. This is not safe. This is not healthy. This is not love. I understand the world is in fear, but I don’t believe that answering fear with force will fix our problems. I was pro-choice before COVID and I am still pro-choice today.” Many on the comment section of the post slammed the actress for her stand while others tried reason that she was not anti-vaccine but against the mandate.

'Shang Chi' star Simu Liu slams 'Ant Man's' Evangeline Lilly for her anti-vaccine post

<p>Booster doses of any COVID-19 vaccine are safe and induce an immune response when given to individuals who have already received the full regimen of one of the authorised COVID-19 vaccines, according to a preliminary study conducted by the US National Institutes of Health.</p>

<p>Results reported in The New England Journal of Medicine showed that both primary and booster vaccines resulted in higher levels of neutralizing antibodies compared to those detected before the booster. Antibodies detected after the booster range from 4.2- to 76-fold higher than those found before.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/warning-from-wuhan-chinese-scientists-say-new-covid-variant-neocov-has-high-mortality-rate-report-448335">Warning from Wuhan: Chinese scientists say new Covid variant 'NeoCov' has high mortality rate - Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Furthermore, all primary-boost combinations resulted in an increase of 4.6- to 56-fold in binding antibody levels.</p>

<p>The newly released report analyses data from 458 adults who had received at least 12 weeks prior to enrollment, full vaccinations with any of three authorised Covid vaccines in the US: Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson and did not have a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection.</p>

<p>Participants received a single booster dose at enrollment: 150 received Janssen/Johnson &amp; Johnson*s vaccine, 154 received Moderna vaccine, and 154 received Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/can-weed-cure-covid-cannabis-compound-stops-coronavirus-in-test-tube-447858">Can weed cure Covid? Cannabis compound stops coronavirus in test tube</a></strong></p>

<p>Based on the participant's initial vaccination regimen, the booster vaccine was either different (mixed, or heterologous) from or the same (matched, or homologous) as the first vaccine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Each participant kept a diary to record any side effects. Over half of the participants complained of headaches, pain at the injection site, muscle aches, and malaise.</p>

<p>However, serious adverse reactions were not reported.</p>

<p>In comparison to homologous or matched boosters, heterologous or mixed boosters elicited similar or higher antibody responses.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;An outlook at the world economy in 2022 amid COVID-19's third wave</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/an-outlook-at-the-world-economy-in-2022-amid-covid-19s-third-wave-448003/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>"These data strongly suggest that homologous and heterologous booster vaccine will increase protective efficacy against symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection," the study showed.</p>

<p>This report summarizes vaccination-related data through the first 29 days following booster vaccination.</p>

<p>Researchers plan to follow participants for one year to determine if booster vaccinations have any effect on longer-term immune responses.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Booster doses of any COVID-19 vaccine are safe and induce an immune response when given to individuals who have already received the full regimen of one of the authorised COVID-19 vaccines, according to a preliminary study conducted by the US National Institutes of Health.

Booster doses of any COVID-19 vaccine are safe and induce an immune response when given to individuals who have already received the full regimen of one of the authorised COVID-19 vaccines, according to a preliminary study conducted by the US National Institutes of Health. Results reported in The New England Journal of Medicine showed that both primary and booster vaccines resulted in higher levels of neutralizing antibodies compared to those detected before the booster. Antibodies detected after the booster range from 4.2- to 76-fold higher than those found before. Also read | Warning from Wuhan: Chinese scientists say new Covid variant 'NeoCov' has high mortality rate - Report Furthermore, all primary-boost combinations resulted in an increase of 4.6- to 56-fold in binding antibody levels. The newly released report analyses data from 458 adults who had received at least 12 weeks prior to enrollment, full vaccinations with any of three authorised Covid vaccines in the US: Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson and did not have a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Participants received a single booster dose at enrollment: 150 received Janssen/Johnson & Johnson*s vaccine, 154 received Moderna vaccine, and 154 received Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Also read | Can weed cure Covid? Cannabis compound stops coronavirus in test tube Based on the participant's initial vaccination regimen, the booster vaccine was either different (mixed, or heterologous) from or the same (matched, or homologous) as the first vaccine. Each participant kept a diary to record any side effects. Over half of the participants complained of headaches, pain at the injection site, muscle aches, and malaise. However, serious adverse reactions were not reported. In comparison to homologous or matched boosters, heterologous or mixed boosters elicited similar or higher antibody responses. WATCH | An outlook at the world economy in 2022 amid COVID-19's third wave "These data strongly suggest that homologous and heterologous booster vaccine will increase protective efficacy against symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection," the study showed. This report summarizes vaccination-related data through the first 29 days following booster vaccination. Researchers plan to follow participants for one year to determine if booster vaccinations have any effect on longer-term immune responses. (With inputs from agencies)

Safe to mix and match Covid booster doses: US National Institutes of Health

<p>Evangeline Lilly is drawing flak for her stance on Covid vaccine as she said that she stands in opposition to government-mandated vaccine policies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ‘Lost’ actress who is also known for her role as Hope van Dyne/Wasp in MCU franchise confirmed on social media that she will be attending a protest organised in Washington DC over the weekend in support of “bodily sovereignty”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I believe nobody should ever be forced to inject their body with anything, against their will, under threat of violent attack, arrest or detention without trial, loss of employment, homelessness, starvation, loss of education, alienation from loved ones, excommunication from society…under any threat whatsoever,” Evangeline Lilly wrote in a post she shared on Instagram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/heres-why-minnie-mouse-is-ditching-the-iconic-red-polka-dot-dress-448300" hreflang="en">Here's why Minnie Mouse is ditching the iconic red polka dot dress</a></p>

<p>“This is not the way. This is not safe. This is not healthy. This is not love. I understand the world is in fear, but I don’t believe that answering fear with force will fix our problems. I was pro choice before COVID and I am still pro choice today,” she added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-v-to-bambam-k-pop-stars-and-how-they-became-famous-448171" hreflang="en">From V to Bambam: K-pop stars and how they became famous</a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/paparazzi-and-its-obsession-with-star-kids-the-most-in-news-bollywood-kids-447526" hreflang="en">Paparazzi and its obsession with star kids: The most in-news Bollywood kids</a></p>

<p>The actress had made headlines over the same issue when she refused to practice social distance and quarantine. In March 2020, she said, “Some people value their lives over freedom, some people value freedom over their lives. We all make choices.” The actress faced backlash and eventually apologised.</p>


Evangeline Lilly is drawing flak for her stance on Covid vaccine as she said that she stands in opposition to government-mandated vaccine policies. The ‘Lost’ actress who is also known for her role as Hope van Dyne/Wasp in MCU franchise confirmed on social media that she will be attending a protest organised in Washington DC over the weekend in support of “bodily sovereignty”.

Evangeline Lilly is drawing flak for her stance on Covid vaccine as she said that she stands in opposition to government-mandated vaccine policies. The ‘Lost’ actress who is also known for her role as Hope van Dyne/Wasp in MCU franchise confirmed on social media that she will be attending a protest organised in Washington DC over the weekend in support of “bodily sovereignty”. “I believe nobody should ever be forced to inject their body with anything, against their will, under threat of violent attack, arrest or detention without trial, loss of employment, homelessness, starvation, loss of education, alienation from loved ones, excommunication from society…under any threat whatsoever,” Evangeline Lilly wrote in a post she shared on Instagram. Also read: Here's why Minnie Mouse is ditching the iconic red polka dot dress “This is not the way. This is not safe. This is not healthy. This is not love. I understand the world is in fear, but I don’t believe that answering fear with force will fix our problems. I was pro choice before COVID and I am still pro choice today,” she added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Evangeline Lilly (@evangelinelillyofficial) × From V to Bambam: K-pop stars and how they became famous Paparazzi and its obsession with star kids: The most in-news Bollywood kids The actress had made headlines over the same issue when she refused to practice social distance and quarantine. In March 2020, she said, “Some people value their lives over freedom, some people value freedom over their lives. We all make choices.” The actress faced backlash and eventually apologised.

Marvel actress Evangeline Lilly against Covid vaccine mandate: This is not safe

<p>A hospital in Boston, USA has refused to perform a heart transplant on a patient who doesn't want to take Covid vaccine. The patient, 31-year-old DJ Ferguson was on priority list for heart transplant. But he has now been excluded, as per a report by CBS Boston.</p>

<p>His father has been quoted as saying that Covid vaccination is against his son's basic principles. He said that his son does not believe in Covid vaccination.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His heart transplant surgery was to take place in Brigham and Women’s hospital in Boston. But now, the hospital is refusing to carry out the procedure.</p>

<p>“Like many other transplant programs in the United States – the Covid-19 vaccine is one of several vaccines and lifestyle behaviors required for transplant candidates in the Mass General Brigham system in order to create both the best chance for a successful operation and also the patient’s survival after transplantation,” explained the hospital as quoted by The Guardian.</p>

<p>Medical experts in the area are supporting the stance taken by hospital. They are saying that organ transplant is followed by weakening of immune system in the immediate aftermath and if a patient is vaccinated against Covid, he or she stands better chance to be protected from Covid infection which can create major trouble for the patient in their weakened state.</p>

<p>Ferguson's family is not sure about future course of action. They said they thinking about several options but are running out of time.</p>


A hospital in Boston, USA has refused to perform a heart transplant on a patient who doesn't want to take Covid vaccine. The patient, 31-year-old DJ Ferguson was on priority list for heart transplant.

A hospital in Boston, USA has refused to perform a heart transplant on a patient who doesn't want to take Covid vaccine. The patient, 31-year-old DJ Ferguson was on priority list for heart transplant. But he has now been excluded, as per a report by CBS Boston. His father has been quoted as saying that Covid vaccination is against his son's basic principles. He said that his son does not believe in Covid vaccination. His heart transplant surgery was to take place in Brigham and Women’s hospital in Boston. But now, the hospital is refusing to carry out the procedure. “Like many other transplant programs in the United States – the Covid-19 vaccine is one of several vaccines and lifestyle behaviors required for transplant candidates in the Mass General Brigham system in order to create both the best chance for a successful operation and also the patient’s survival after transplantation,” explained the hospital as quoted by The Guardian. Medical experts in the area are supporting the stance taken by hospital. They are saying that organ transplant is followed by weakening of immune system in the immediate aftermath and if a patient is vaccinated against Covid, he or she stands better chance to be protected from Covid infection which can create major trouble for the patient in their weakened state. Ferguson's family is not sure about future course of action. They said they thinking about several options but are running out of time.

Hospital denies heart transplant to patient who refused to receive Covid vaccine

While nearly 9.5 billion doses of Covid-19 vaccine have been administered across the planet, less than 10 percent of low-income countries have received a dose. But, that’s about to change. VOA’s Jessica Stone reports that India will be at the center of the solution.

WION-VOA CO-Production: Only 10% of low-income countries received Covid jabs

The Sars-CoV-2 virus, within 20 minutes of becoming airborne, loses its ability to infect others, as per a recent study. The UK-based study suggests that the most loss occurs in the first five minutes. The findings of the study reaffirm the importance of wearing masks and maintaining social distancing. In an environment where humidity is lower than 50 percent, the virus becomes half as infectious within five seconds. In a more humid environment, the decline is significantly slower.

What happens to Covid within 20 minutes of being airborne? Study reveals

The resumption of school after the holidays in the US is leading to concerns about a further spread of the Coronavirus. Starting yesterday, students resumed in-person learning in many school districts.

United States: New York schools reopen amid Covid surge

The government in France has revamped quarantine rules for the infected, and it is planning to bring in stricter restrictions for the unvaccinated starting today.

French government revamps quarantine rules for the infected

For the first time since the pandemic began almost two years ago, the number of daily new COVID-19 cases crossed one million worldwide.

In a first, global daily new COVID-19 cases cross one million mark since the pandemic began

<p class="MsoNormal">Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Tuesday that India has approved two new COVID-19 vaccines namely Covovax and Corbevax. In addition to this, an anti-viral drug, Molnupiravir, has also been approved for restricted use in an emergency situation.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Further strengthening the fight against Covid-19, CDSCO, health ministry has given 3 approvals in a single day for CORBEVAX vaccine, COVOVAX vaccine, anti-viral drug Molnupiravir for restricted use in an emergency situation," Mansukh Mandaviya reported through Twitter.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-india-covid-omicron-vaccine-travel-updates-440325" hreflang="en">LIVE Omicron Variant Updates: India reports 6,358 cases; Omicron cases now 653</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations India 🇮🇳<br />
<br />
Further strengthening the fight against COVID-19, CDSCO, <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> has given 3 approvals in a single day for:<br />
<br />
- CORBEVAX vaccine<br />
- COVOVAX vaccine<br />
- Anti-viral drug Molnupiravir<br />
<br />
For restricted use in emergency situation. (1/5)</p>
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1475699946544570372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>CORBEVAX is India’s first indigenously developed RBD protein sub-unit vaccine against the deadly coronavirus. This is being made by Hyderabad-based firm Biological-E.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">COVOVAX, manufactured by Pune-based firm Serum Institute of India (SII), is a nanoparticle vaccine against COVID-19.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug that is being developed by nearly 13 companies in India. This can be used to treat adult patients of Covid who, the doctors believe, have a heightened risk of "progression of the disease". The antiviral drug will not be used for Covid patients under the age of 18, for now, as per local media reports.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-approves-2-more-covid-19-vaccines-and-an-anti-covid-pill-molnupiravir-440613"><b>WATCH |</b></a></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-approves-2-more-covid-19-vaccines-and-an-anti-covid-pill-molnupiravir-440613/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p class="MsoNormal">In addition to this, it is also believed that this antiviral drug will not be used for more than five consecutive days, as of now.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">With these new approvals, the number of approved Covid vaccines has increased to eight. Till now, Covishield, Covaxin, Sputnik V, Moderna, Johnson and Johnson and ZyCoV-D had approvals India.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">This news comes a little after Indian Prime Minister made a surprise announcement on Christmas Day through a national TV telecast about Covid vaccination for children and 'precaution dose' for frontline workers and those above 60 years of age and with comorbidities.<o:p></o:p></p>


Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Tuesday that India has approved two new COVID-19 vaccines namely Covovax and Corbevax. In addition to this, an anti-viral drug, Molnupiravir, has also been approved for restricted use in an emergency situation.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Tuesday that India has approved two new COVID-19 vaccines namely Covovax and Corbevax. In addition to this, an anti-viral drug, Molnupiravir, has also been approved for restricted use in an emergency situation. "Further strengthening the fight against Covid-19, CDSCO, health ministry has given 3 approvals in a single day for CORBEVAX vaccine, COVOVAX vaccine, anti-viral drug Molnupiravir for restricted use in an emergency situation," Mansukh Mandaviya reported through Twitter. Also read | LIVE Omicron Variant Updates: India reports 6,358 cases; Omicron cases now 653 Congratulations India 🇮🇳 Further strengthening the fight against COVID-19, CDSCO, @MoHFW_INDIA has given 3 approvals in a single day for: - CORBEVAX vaccine - COVOVAX vaccine - Anti-viral drug Molnupiravir For restricted use in emergency situation. (1/5) — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) December 28, 2021 × CORBEVAX is India’s first indigenously developed RBD protein sub-unit vaccine against the deadly coronavirus. This is being made by Hyderabad-based firm Biological-E. COVOVAX, manufactured by Pune-based firm Serum Institute of India (SII), is a nanoparticle vaccine against COVID-19. Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug that is being developed by nearly 13 companies in India. This can be used to treat adult patients of Covid who, the doctors believe, have a heightened risk of "progression of the disease". The antiviral drug will not be used for Covid patients under the age of 18, for now, as per local media reports. WATCH | In addition to this, it is also believed that this antiviral drug will not be used for more than five consecutive days, as of now. With these new approvals, the number of approved Covid vaccines has increased to eight. Till now, Covishield, Covaxin, Sputnik V, Moderna, Johnson and Johnson and ZyCoV-D had approvals India. This news comes a little after Indian Prime Minister made a surprise announcement on Christmas Day through a national TV telecast about Covid vaccination for children and 'precaution dose' for frontline workers and those above 60 years of age and with comorbidities.

'It's a hat-trick!': India approves 2 new Covid vaccines and 1 antiviral drug in a day

In a significant move, India has given emergency use authorisation approval to two more COVID-19 vaccines Covovax and Corbevax and an anti-viral drug Molnupiravir.

India approves 2 more COVID-19 vaccines and an anti-covid pill Molnupiravir

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Covid-19 vaccine for children and booster doses, which PM Modi termed as precaution doses, for frontline workers and senior citizens, amid the Omicron scare. Children between the age group of 15 to 18 years will be getting the Covid vaccine from January 3, 2022. Senior citizens with comorbidities will receive booster doses from January 10, 2022, he announced.

Indian PM Modi addresses nation, announces key developments in India's COVID vaccination drive

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