Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has given its approval to an anti-Covid drug developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The drug has been approved for emergency use as an adjunct therapy in moderate to severe coronavirus cases. The drug is to be administered orally.

Clinical trials of the drug 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) showed that it helps in faster recovery of hospitalised patients and reduces supplemental oxygen dependence.

The approval to the drug has come at a time when India has been grappling with a record-breaking wave of coronavirus pandemic that has stretched the country's healthcare infrastructure to its limit.

The announcement of the approval was made by India's health ministry

"In the ongoing second COVID-19 wave, a large number of patients are facing severe oxygen dependency and need hospitalisation.

"The drug is expected to save precious lives due to the mechanism of operation of the drug in infected cells. This also reduces the hospital stay of COVID-19 patients," the ministry said.

It said the anti-COVID-19 therapeutic application of 2-DG drug has been developed by the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), a leading laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with Dr Reddy's Laboratories (DRL) in Hyderabad.

"On May 01, DCGI granted permission for emergency use of this drug as adjunct therapy in moderate to severe COVID-19 patients. Being a generic molecule and analogue of glucose, it can be easily produced and made available in plenty in the country," the ministry said in a statement.

Adjunctive therapy is a treatment used together with the primary treatment to assist it.

The drug comes in powder form in a sachet and is taken orally by dissolving it in water.

"It accumulates in the virus-infected cells and prevents virus growth by stopping viral synthesis and energy production. Its selective accumulation in virally infected cells makes this drug unique," the ministry said.

In terms of efficacy trends, the ministry said, patients treated with 2-DG showed faster symptomatic cure than the standard of care (SoC) on various endpoints.

"A significantly favourable trend (2.5 days difference) was seen in terms of the median time to achieving normalisation of specific vital signs parameters when compared to SoC," it said.

"Clinical trial results of the drug have shown that it helps in faster recovery of hospitalised patients and reduces supplemental oxygen dependence. A higher proportion of patients treated with 2-DG showed RT-PCR negative conversion in COVID patients," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has given its approval to an anti-Covid drug developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The drug has been approved for emergency use as an adjunct therapy in moderate to severe coronavirus cases.

Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has given its approval to an anti-Covid drug developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The drug has been approved for emergency use as an adjunct therapy in moderate to severe coronavirus cases. The drug is to be administered orally. Clinical trials of the drug 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) showed that it helps in faster recovery of hospitalised patients and reduces supplemental oxygen dependence. The approval to the drug has come at a time when India has been grappling with a record-breaking wave of coronavirus pandemic that has stretched the country's healthcare infrastructure to its limit. The announcement of the approval was made by India's health ministry "In the ongoing second COVID-19 wave, a large number of patients are facing severe oxygen dependency and need hospitalisation. "The drug is expected to save precious lives due to the mechanism of operation of the drug in infected cells. This also reduces the hospital stay of COVID-19 patients," the ministry said. It said the anti-COVID-19 therapeutic application of 2-DG drug has been developed by the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), a leading laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with Dr Reddy's Laboratories (DRL) in Hyderabad. "On May 01, DCGI granted permission for emergency use of this drug as adjunct therapy in moderate to severe COVID-19 patients. Being a generic molecule and analogue of glucose, it can be easily produced and made available in plenty in the country," the ministry said in a statement. Adjunctive therapy is a treatment used together with the primary treatment to assist it. The drug comes in powder form in a sachet and is taken orally by dissolving it in water. "It accumulates in the virus-infected cells and prevents virus growth by stopping viral synthesis and energy production. Its selective accumulation in virally infected cells makes this drug unique," the ministry said. In terms of efficacy trends, the ministry said, patients treated with 2-DG showed faster symptomatic cure than the standard of care (SoC) on various endpoints. "A significantly favourable trend (2.5 days difference) was seen in terms of the median time to achieving normalisation of specific vital signs parameters when compared to SoC," it said. "Clinical trial results of the drug have shown that it helps in faster recovery of hospitalised patients and reduces supplemental oxygen dependence. A higher proportion of patients treated with 2-DG showed RT-PCR negative conversion in COVID patients," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Anti-Covid drug by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation gets regulator nod

The European Union has concluded deal for upto 1.8 billion extra doses of Pfizer/BioNTech Covid vaccine. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen made the announcement on Twitter as she attended an EU summit in Portugal.

"Happy to announce that the EU Commission has just approved a contract for guaranteed 900 million doses (+900 million options) with BioNTech/Pfizer for 2021-2023," she tweeted from an EU summit in Portugal.

"Other contracts and other vaccine technologies will follow," she promised.

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Happy to announce that <a href="https://twitter.com/EU_Commission?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EU_Commission</a> has just approved a contract for guaranteed 900 million doses (+900 million options) with <a href="https://twitter.com/BioNTech_Group?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BioNTech_Group</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/pfizer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pfizer</a> for 2021-2023. 
 
Other contracts and other vaccine technologies will follow.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1390967173460463619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The EU said that the contract on top of the 600 million BioNTech/Pfizer doses the commission has already secured, aims to supply the bloc -- population 450 million -- with enough jabs for booster shots.

They could also expand vaccination to minors and for exports to lower-income countries outside the EU, it added.

Ursula von der Leyen said that the mRNA technology used by BioNTech/Pfizer and other vaccine-makers has proven safe and effective.

BioNTech of Germany and Pfizer of the United States have stepped up supply Europe with their jointly produced doses, and their vaccine is currently the main one being used in the EU.

EU rollout accelerating

Others in the EU vaccine portfolio include those from AstraZeneca -- which delivered far below the quantities it had promised, and whose jab has been tarnished by a link to very rare blood clots -- as well as from Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson.

After a slow start, the EU's vaccination rollout has greatly picked up speed, with more than a quarter of its population having received at least one jab.&nbsp;

The 27-nation bloc is on track to have 70 percent of adults fully vaccinated by late July, and is already cautiously reopening ahead of its vital summer vacation period.

Von der Leyen has stood by the EU strategy of her Commission being responsible for negotiating vaccine contracts for all member countries, despite early criticism that rollout was too slow.

Europe is now <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-calls-on-us-others-to-export-vaccines-rather-than-talk-about-ip-waiver-383578">debating with the United States</a> over whether lifting patents on Covid vaccines could boost supplies to poorer countries.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-calls-on-us-others-to-export-vaccines-rather-than-talk-about-ip-waiver-383578">EU calls on US, others to export vaccines, rather than talk about IP waiver</a>

The EU has so far sent more than 200 million doses to non-EU countries, while the United States has dispatched just 2.7 million to Mexico in what it describes as a "loan".

The head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, tweeted that "Europe’s role in the world is more critical today than ever as we fight Covid-19," adding that it "shows when we collaborate on common causes we are stronger together".

The European Union is major contributor to Covax, a WHO-backed facility designed to get doses to mainly lower-income countries.

(With&nbsp;inputs from agencies)

The European Union has concluded deal for upto 1.8 billion extra doses of Pfizer/BioNTech Covid vaccine. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen made the announcement on Twitter as she attended an EU summit in Portugal.

The European Union has concluded deal for upto 1.8 billion extra doses of Pfizer/BioNTech Covid vaccine. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen made the announcement on Twitter as she attended an EU summit in Portugal. "Happy to announce that the EU Commission has just approved a contract for guaranteed 900 million doses (+900 million options) with BioNTech/Pfizer for 2021-2023," she tweeted from an EU summit in Portugal. "Other contracts and other vaccine technologies will follow," she promised. Happy to announce that @EU_Commission has just approved a contract for guaranteed 900 million doses (+900 million options) with @BioNTech_Group @Pfizer for 2021-2023. Other contracts and other vaccine technologies will follow. — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) May 8, 2021 × The EU said that the contract on top of the 600 million BioNTech/Pfizer doses the commission has already secured, aims to supply the bloc -- population 450 million -- with enough jabs for booster shots. They could also expand vaccination to minors and for exports to lower-income countries outside the EU, it added. Ursula von der Leyen said that the mRNA technology used by BioNTech/Pfizer and other vaccine-makers has proven safe and effective. BioNTech of Germany and Pfizer of the United States have stepped up supply Europe with their jointly produced doses, and their vaccine is currently the main one being used in the EU. EU rollout accelerating Others in the EU vaccine portfolio include those from AstraZeneca -- which delivered far below the quantities it had promised, and whose jab has been tarnished by a link to very rare blood clots -- as well as from Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. After a slow start, the EU's vaccination rollout has greatly picked up speed, with more than a quarter of its population having received at least one jab. The 27-nation bloc is on track to have 70 percent of adults fully vaccinated by late July, and is already cautiously reopening ahead of its vital summer vacation period. Von der Leyen has stood by the EU strategy of her Commission being responsible for negotiating vaccine contracts for all member countries, despite early criticism that rollout was too slow. Europe is now debating with the United States over whether lifting patents on Covid vaccines could boost supplies to poorer countries. Also Read | EU calls on US, others to export vaccines, rather than talk about IP waiver The EU has so far sent more than 200 million doses to non-EU countries, while the United States has dispatched just 2.7 million to Mexico in what it describes as a "loan". The head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, tweeted that "Europe’s role in the world is more critical today than ever as we fight Covid-19," adding that it "shows when we collaborate on common causes we are stronger together". The European Union is major contributor to Covax, a WHO-backed facility designed to get doses to mainly lower-income countries. (With inputs from agencies)

EU seals deal for more 1.8 billion Pfizer/BioNTech Covid vaccine doses

'What others call aid, we call friendship' is EAM Dr S Jaishankar's message to those doing a politically motivated post-mortem in the middle of a crisis.

Gravitas: S. Jaishankar takes on every criticism

Pfizer sharply increased its projections for 2021 revenues and profits on Tuesday, citing much higher COVID-19 vaccine sales as it targets the inoculations as a "durable" revenue stream.

The drugmaker, which has a number of projects to expand vaccinations to additional populations and to provide booster doses, now estimates 2021 revenues of $26 billion from the vaccine, up from $15 billion previously.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-fda-to-approve-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-for-teens-by-next-week-382704/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pfizer now sees profits of between $3.55 and $3.65 a share for the year, an increase of 45 cents from the previous estimate.

Chief Executive Albert Bourla expects "durable demand" for COVID-19 vaccines, similar to that of the flu vaccine.

The company is ramping up capacity for the shots, which were developed with German company BioNTech.

"It is our hope that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will continue to have a global impact by helping to get the devastating pandemic under control and helping economies around the world not only open -- but stay open," Bourla said in prepared remarks ahead of a conference call later Tuesday.&nbsp;

He said that would create "a scenario in which Pfizer can continue to be both a leader and a beneficiary."

Pfizer reported net income of $4.9 billion, up 45 per cent from the same period of the prior year.

Revenues also jumped 45 per cent to $14.6 billion, including $3.5 billion in COVID-19 vaccine sales.

Pfizer expects to deliver 1.6 billion doses this year under contracts signed through mid-April.

The company's results also included a "solid" performance in non-vaccine products. Products with higher sales included Eliquis, which is used to prevent blood clots, and Xeljanz, which treats rheumatoid arthritis, among other ailments.&nbsp;

As with other COVID-19 vaccine producers, Pfizer developed its version at an exceptionally fast pace. The company is expected to soon win approval in the United States to provide shots to children 12 to 15 years old, and is researching providing the doses to healthy children six months to 11 years old.

Pfizer also is evaluating a third dose of the treatment "to understand the effect of a booster" against COVID-19 variants now in circulation.

The drugmaker said it reached agreements with Israel to supply millions of doses in 2022, and with Canada to supply 125 million doses in 2022 and 2023, with options into 2024.

The company and partner BioNTech have significant supply agreements with the United States and the European Union.&nbsp;

After logistical problems in Europe, Pfizer and BioNTech are on track to significantly boost vaccine production in Puurs, Belgium.

As of May 3, Pfizer and BioNTech have shipped about 430 million doses of the vaccine to 91 countries around the world.

The company is building more capacity and expects to manufacture at least three billion doses in 2022, up from 2.5 billion now expected in 2021. In February, Pfizer said it expected to produce up to two billion doses in 2021.

Pfizer shares rose 0.8 percent to $40.13 in pre-market trading.

Pfizer sharply increased its projections for 2021 revenues and profits on Tuesday, citing much higher COVID-19 vaccine sales as it targets the inoculations as a "durable" revenue stream.

Pfizer sharply increased its projections for 2021 revenues and profits on Tuesday, citing much higher COVID-19 vaccine sales as it targets the inoculations as a "durable" revenue stream. The drugmaker, which has a number of projects to expand vaccinations to additional populations and to provide booster doses, now estimates 2021 revenues of $26 billion from the vaccine, up from $15 billion previously. Watch | Pfizer now sees profits of between $3.55 and $3.65 a share for the year, an increase of 45 cents from the previous estimate. Chief Executive Albert Bourla expects "durable demand" for COVID-19 vaccines, similar to that of the flu vaccine. The company is ramping up capacity for the shots, which were developed with German company BioNTech. "It is our hope that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will continue to have a global impact by helping to get the devastating pandemic under control and helping economies around the world not only open -- but stay open," Bourla said in prepared remarks ahead of a conference call later Tuesday. He said that would create "a scenario in which Pfizer can continue to be both a leader and a beneficiary." Pfizer reported net income of $4.9 billion, up 45 per cent from the same period of the prior year. Revenues also jumped 45 per cent to $14.6 billion, including $3.5 billion in COVID-19 vaccine sales. Pfizer expects to deliver 1.6 billion doses this year under contracts signed through mid-April. The company's results also included a "solid" performance in non-vaccine products. Products with higher sales included Eliquis, which is used to prevent blood clots, and Xeljanz, which treats rheumatoid arthritis, among other ailments. As with other COVID-19 vaccine producers, Pfizer developed its version at an exceptionally fast pace. The company is expected to soon win approval in the United States to provide shots to children 12 to 15 years old, and is researching providing the doses to healthy children six months to 11 years old. Pfizer also is evaluating a third dose of the treatment "to understand the effect of a booster" against COVID-19 variants now in circulation. The drugmaker said it reached agreements with Israel to supply millions of doses in 2022, and with Canada to supply 125 million doses in 2022 and 2023, with options into 2024. The company and partner BioNTech have significant supply agreements with the United States and the European Union. After logistical problems in Europe, Pfizer and BioNTech are on track to significantly boost vaccine production in Puurs, Belgium. As of May 3, Pfizer and BioNTech have shipped about 430 million doses of the vaccine to 91 countries around the world. The company is building more capacity and expects to manufacture at least three billion doses in 2022, up from 2.5 billion now expected in 2021. In February, Pfizer said it expected to produce up to two billion doses in 2021. Pfizer shares rose 0.8 percent to $40.13 in pre-market trading.

Pfizer raises 2021 sales forecast for Covid vaccines to $26 billion

Pfizer said on Monday it told the Indian government that there was no concern over the safety of its COVID-19 vaccine, as India insists on small local trials for foreign shots despite a record surge in infections and shortage of doses.

The government in mid-April made it easier for foreign vaccines approved in the West and Japan to sell in India, though companies would still have to initiate a local clinical trial within 30 days of receiving emergency use authorization. Previously, companies were required to do the trial before approval.

Pfizer, Johnson &amp; Johnson and Moderna have been invited to sell their vaccines to India but none have applied to do so yet.

Pfizer, however, said it is holding fresh talks with the government after having withdrawn its initial application in February over the earlier local trial rule.

"Pfizer's application for emergency use authorization was supported with data that shows an overall efficacy rate of 95% with no safety concerns," a company spokeswoman told Reuters when asked if it had sought an exception even to the current trial rule in its discussions with the government.

She added that the safety and efficacy data had been backed by regulatory authorities in the United States, Britain, Japan and the World Health Organization - agencies that India endorses.

Pfizer, which produces the vaccine with German partner BioNTech SE, reiterated that it would supply doses only through government contracts.

Asked about the vaccine's ultra-low temperature storage requirements, minus 70 degrees Celsius, Pfizer said the company could deliver the shot to vaccination centres using its specially designed, temperature-controlled thermal shippers.

It said doses could be stored in ultra-low-temperature freezers for up to six months, in the shippers for up to 30 days by refilling them with dry ice every five days, or in common refrigeration and freezer units for five days.

Pfizer said on Monday it told the Indian government that there was no concern over the safety of its COVID-19 vaccine, as India insists on small local trials for foreign shots despite a record surge in infections and shortage of doses.

Pfizer said on Monday it told the Indian government that there was no concern over the safety of its COVID-19 vaccine, as India insists on small local trials for foreign shots despite a record surge in infections and shortage of doses. The government in mid-April made it easier for foreign vaccines approved in the West and Japan to sell in India, though companies would still have to initiate a local clinical trial within 30 days of receiving emergency use authorization. Previously, companies were required to do the trial before approval. Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson and Moderna have been invited to sell their vaccines to India but none have applied to do so yet. Pfizer, however, said it is holding fresh talks with the government after having withdrawn its initial application in February over the earlier local trial rule. "Pfizer's application for emergency use authorization was supported with data that shows an overall efficacy rate of 95% with no safety concerns," a company spokeswoman told Reuters when asked if it had sought an exception even to the current trial rule in its discussions with the government. She added that the safety and efficacy data had been backed by regulatory authorities in the United States, Britain, Japan and the World Health Organization - agencies that India endorses. Pfizer, which produces the vaccine with German partner BioNTech SE, reiterated that it would supply doses only through government contracts. Asked about the vaccine's ultra-low temperature storage requirements, minus 70 degrees Celsius, Pfizer said the company could deliver the shot to vaccination centres using its specially designed, temperature-controlled thermal shippers. It said doses could be stored in ultra-low-temperature freezers for up to six months, in the shippers for up to 30 days by refilling them with dry ice every five days, or in common refrigeration and freezer units for five days.

Told India no safety concerns with Covid vaccine, says Pfizer

Europe can achieve herd immunity against the coronavirus within the next four months, the head of German pharmaceutical company BioNTech SE said on April 28.

Europe could reach Herd Immunity against COVID by August

As the world reels under waves of pandemic caused to to variants of COVID-19 virus, a vaccine being developed by a French firm may well offer a solution for the long-term fight against the deadly ailment.

The vaccine is being developed by a company named Valneva SE and it can be more 'variant-proof'.

The vaccine is undergoing clinical trials. It uses a 'tried-and-true' vaccine technology that involves inactivated version of the virus. The company announced last week that it had launched a Phase 3 trial of its candidate vaccine. &nbsp;

If the results of the trial are positive, "Valneva aims to make regulatory submissions for initial approval in the autumn of 2021."

Unlike most high-profile coronavirus shots, which use various methods to prime the immune system to fight the coronavirus, Valneva's version is based on an "inactivated" version of the coronavirus itself.

Valneva is a USD 100 million firm listed on Nasdaq. It has already struck a deal with the UK for 190 million doses. The UK contract alone is worth 1.4 billion Euros. This is more than 10 times the company's annual revenue last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the world reels under waves of pandemic caused to to variants of COVID-19 virus, a vaccine being developed by a French firm may well offer a solution for the long-term fight against the deadly ailment.

As the world reels under waves of pandemic caused to to variants of COVID-19 virus, a vaccine being developed by a French firm may well offer a solution for the long-term fight against the deadly ailment. The vaccine is being developed by a company named Valneva SE and it can be more 'variant-proof'. The vaccine is undergoing clinical trials. It uses a 'tried-and-true' vaccine technology that involves inactivated version of the virus. The company announced last week that it had launched a Phase 3 trial of its candidate vaccine. If the results of the trial are positive, "Valneva aims to make regulatory submissions for initial approval in the autumn of 2021." Unlike most high-profile coronavirus shots, which use various methods to prime the immune system to fight the coronavirus, Valneva's version is based on an "inactivated" version of the coronavirus itself. Valneva is a USD 100 million firm listed on Nasdaq. It has already struck a deal with the UK for 190 million doses. The UK contract alone is worth 1.4 billion Euros. This is more than 10 times the company's annual revenue last year. (With inputs from agencies)

A 'variant-proof' French vaccine may be key to fight against Covid

The government of India has announced a ‘Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of Covid-19 Vaccination from May 1,’ which makes anyone above 18 years eligible for taking the Covid-19 vaccine.

All Indian adults eligible can register on the government's Co-WIN portal, cowin.gov.in, or the Aarogya Setu app to get their coronavirus vaccine. 
 
Ministry of Health tweeted that the vaccination drive opens for everyone between 18 and 45 years from 1st of May, 2021.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LargestVaccineDrive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LargestVaccineDrive</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Unite2FightCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Unite2FightCorona</a> 
 
Here’s a step-by-step process on how to register yourself on CoWIN portal for getting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVIDVaccination?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVIDVaccination</a> appointments. Vaccination drive opens for everyone between 18-45 years from 1st of May, 2021. <a href="https://t.co/e4NXL1ajCw">pic.twitter.com/e4NXL1ajCw</a>
— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA/status/1386363373734948866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Those aged 45 years and above can still avail of the facility for on-site registration to get vaccinated, officials said.

Amid an unprecedented surge in coronavirus cases in the country, the government has decided to allow everyone above 18 years of age to get vaccinated from May 1. 
 
"Registration for 18 plus to begin on http://cowin.gov.in, Aarogya Setu App &amp; UMANG App at 4 PM on 28th April. Appointments at State Govt centres &amp; Private centres depending on how many vaccination centres are ready on 1st May for Vaccination of 18 plus," Aarogya Setu informed in a tweet.

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Registration for 18 plus to begin on <a href="https://t.co/S3pUooMbXX">https://t.co/S3pUooMbXX</a>, Aarogya Setu App &amp; UMANG App at 4 PM on 28th April. Appointments at State Govt centers &amp; Private centers depending on how many vaccination centers are ready on 1st May for Vaccination of 18 plus. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LargestVaccineDrive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LargestVaccineDrive</a>
— Aarogya Setu (@SetuAarogya) <a href="https://twitter.com/SetuAarogya/status/1387230084700925955?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The inoculation process and documents to be provided to get the jab will remain the same.

"An increased demand is expected once the vaccination is opened for all. For crowd control, registering on CoWIN portal and making an appointment to get a vaccine will be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years. Walks-in will not be allowed in the beginning so that there is no chaos," an official said.

From May 1, the present system of private COVID-19 vaccination centres receiving doses from the government and charging up to Rs 250 per dose from people will cease to exist and private hospitals will procure directly from vaccine manufacturers.

According to the Liberalised Pricing and Accelerated National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy, COVID-19 vaccination will continue to be free at government vaccination centres that receive doses from the Centre for eligible population groups comprising healthcare workers, frontline workers and people above 45 years of age.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of India has announced a ‘Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of Covid-19 Vaccination from May 1,’ which makes anyone above 18 years eligible for taking the Covid-19 vaccine.

The government of India has announced a ‘Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of Covid-19 Vaccination from May 1,’ which makes anyone above 18 years eligible for taking the Covid-19 vaccine. All Indian adults eligible can register on the government's Co-WIN portal, cowin.gov.in, or the Aarogya Setu app to get their coronavirus vaccine. Ministry of Health tweeted that the vaccination drive opens for everyone between 18 and 45 years from 1st of May, 2021. #LargestVaccineDrive #Unite2FightCorona Here’s a step-by-step process on how to register yourself on CoWIN portal for getting #COVIDVaccination appointments. Vaccination drive opens for everyone between 18-45 years from 1st of May, 2021. pic.twitter.com/e4NXL1ajCw — Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) April 25, 2021 × Those aged 45 years and above can still avail of the facility for on-site registration to get vaccinated, officials said. Amid an unprecedented surge in coronavirus cases in the country, the government has decided to allow everyone above 18 years of age to get vaccinated from May 1. "Registration for 18 plus to begin on http://cowin.gov.in, Aarogya Setu App & UMANG App at 4 PM on 28th April. Appointments at State Govt centres & Private centres depending on how many vaccination centres are ready on 1st May for Vaccination of 18 plus," Aarogya Setu informed in a tweet. Registration for 18 plus to begin on https://t.co/S3pUooMbXX, Aarogya Setu App & UMANG App at 4 PM on 28th April. Appointments at State Govt centers & Private centers depending on how many vaccination centers are ready on 1st May for Vaccination of 18 plus. #LargestVaccineDrive — Aarogya Setu (@SetuAarogya) April 28, 2021 × The inoculation process and documents to be provided to get the jab will remain the same. "An increased demand is expected once the vaccination is opened for all. For crowd control, registering on CoWIN portal and making an appointment to get a vaccine will be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years. Walks-in will not be allowed in the beginning so that there is no chaos," an official said. From May 1, the present system of private COVID-19 vaccination centres receiving doses from the government and charging up to Rs 250 per dose from people will cease to exist and private hospitals will procure directly from vaccine manufacturers. According to the Liberalised Pricing and Accelerated National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy, COVID-19 vaccination will continue to be free at government vaccination centres that receive doses from the Centre for eligible population groups comprising healthcare workers, frontline workers and people above 45 years of age. (With inputs from agencies)

India Covid vaccine for all above 18 years: Registration to open today. Here's how to apply

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

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

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

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

Japan government is planning to open large vaccination centres that can handle 10,000 people per day, said local media. These vaccination centres are being planned in Tokyo and Osaka in the coming weeks.

The Nikkei newspaper said on Sunday the government will open a vaccination site in central Tokyo as early as May&nbsp;

The paper said that the site will be open to anyone living and working in Tokyo. Medically trained staff from Japan's self defence forces will assist with vaccination.

While Japan has avoided an explosive spread of the virus experienced by many countries, the government has come under sharp criticism for its sluggish vaccination roll-out, which has been handled mostly by municipal authorities. Only about 1% of its population has been vaccinated, according to a Reuters tracker.

There has been a recent surge in infections. This has been driven by the spread of &nbsp;a variant has also stoked alarm and there is a critical shortage of medical staff and hospital beds in some areas.

Japan only started vaccinating its sizable elderly population this month and health experts say it may take till the winter or longer for most of the general populace to get access to shots.

Health Minister Norihisa Tamura said on Sunday if the government was able to secure enough vaccines to inoculate the elderly by the end of July, vaccinations for those under 65 could start that month, according to a Kyodo report.

Japan's third state of emergency in Tokyo, Osaka and two other prefectures began on Sunday, affecting nearly a quarter of the population as the country attempts to combat the surge in cases three months before the Tokyo Olympics is set to open.

Japan has had about 550,000 cases and 9,761 deaths to date.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan government is planning to open large vaccination centres that can handle 10,000 people per day, said local media. These vaccination centres are being planned in Tokyo and Osaka in the coming weeks.

Japan government is planning to open large vaccination centres that can handle 10,000 people per day, said local media. These vaccination centres are being planned in Tokyo and Osaka in the coming weeks. The Nikkei newspaper said on Sunday the government will open a vaccination site in central Tokyo as early as May The paper said that the site will be open to anyone living and working in Tokyo. Medically trained staff from Japan's self defence forces will assist with vaccination. While Japan has avoided an explosive spread of the virus experienced by many countries, the government has come under sharp criticism for its sluggish vaccination roll-out, which has been handled mostly by municipal authorities. Only about 1% of its population has been vaccinated, according to a Reuters tracker. There has been a recent surge in infections. This has been driven by the spread of a variant has also stoked alarm and there is a critical shortage of medical staff and hospital beds in some areas. Japan only started vaccinating its sizable elderly population this month and health experts say it may take till the winter or longer for most of the general populace to get access to shots. Health Minister Norihisa Tamura said on Sunday if the government was able to secure enough vaccines to inoculate the elderly by the end of July, vaccinations for those under 65 could start that month, according to a Kyodo report. Japan's third state of emergency in Tokyo, Osaka and two other prefectures began on Sunday, affecting nearly a quarter of the population as the country attempts to combat the surge in cases three months before the Tokyo Olympics is set to open. Japan has had about 550,000 cases and 9,761 deaths to date. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan to open vaccination centres capable of handling 10,000 people: Report 

Covid vaccine doses crossed one billion mark worldwide on Saturday. A lot remained to be done however as number of virus cases worldwide hit a new daily record. At least 1,002,938,540 vaccine doses have been administered in 207 countries and territories, according to an AFP tally.

The pandemic has killed more than three million people worldwide since the initial outbreak in China in December 2019.

In addition to spike in number of infections in India, Thailand was seen to be grappling with increasing caseload. Thailand had long avoided worst of the pandemic. Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha said on Saturday that more than 1400 Covid-19 patients were awaiting admission in hospitals.

In India, one "oxygen express" carrying 30,000 litres of oxygen arrived in northern Lucknow at dawn on Saturday.

In Iraq, at least 23 lives were lost in a tragic fire at a Covid hospital.

Accelerating rollouts

With the pandemic still showing no sign of slowing, governments around the world are placing their hopes in vaccines. Worldwide, the number of vaccine doses administered has doubled in less than a month

Nevertheless, while the majority of poor countries have also started to vaccinate -- mainly thanks to the Covax programme -- inoculation is still largely a privilege of high-income countries, home to 16 percent of the world's population, administering 47 percent of vaccine doses.

A stark contrast can be seen in low-income countries which account for just 0.2 per cent of coronavirus vaccine shots thus far.

 
In the US, regulators have approved the re-start of a rollout of Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines halted over blood clotting concerns.

In Europe, Belgium said Saturday it would authorise the J&amp;J shot for all adults, having already received 36,000 doses and expecting a total of 1.4 million between April and June.

The European Union as a whole said it would have enough vaccines to immunise 70 percent of its adult population by the end of July.&nbsp;

Lockdown protests

But despite the optimism, the threat of the virus remains ever-present, with Germany implementing tougher new lockdown rules, including night curfews and school closures, after the government passed a disputed new law designed to slow infections.

The controversial new rules -- passed this week amid huge protests in Berlin -- will apply in all regions with incidence rates of more than 100 new infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days. 
And in Britain, ongoing restrictions are continuing to fuel anger.

Police in London said they arrested five people, and eight officers were injured, after disorder at large-scale protests against England's remaining coronavirus restrictions, the mandatory use of masks and possible introduction of so-called vaccine passports.

Britain began to gradually lift Covid-19 restrictions last month after months of curbs and a successful mass vaccination campaign. Pubs were allowed to serve customers outdoors this month and non-essential shops reopened.

The demonstrators marched along several major arteries, including the main shopping district Oxford Street, with videos and photos showing thousands in attendance.

Hundreds then rallied in Hyde Park late afternoon following the march.

Organisers used various websites and online platform pages to encourage turnout, despite curbs which limit outdoor gatherings to 30 people.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Covid vaccine doses crossed one billion mark worldwide on Saturday. A lot remained to be done however as number of virus cases worldwide hit a new daily record. At least 1,002,938,540 vaccine doses have been administered in 207 countries and territories, according to an AFP tally.

Covid vaccine doses crossed one billion mark worldwide on Saturday. A lot remained to be done however as number of virus cases worldwide hit a new daily record. At least 1,002,938,540 vaccine doses have been administered in 207 countries and territories, according to an AFP tally. The pandemic has killed more than three million people worldwide since the initial outbreak in China in December 2019. In addition to spike in number of infections in India, Thailand was seen to be grappling with increasing caseload. Thailand had long avoided worst of the pandemic. Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha said on Saturday that more than 1400 Covid-19 patients were awaiting admission in hospitals. In India, one "oxygen express" carrying 30,000 litres of oxygen arrived in northern Lucknow at dawn on Saturday. In Iraq, at least 23 lives were lost in a tragic fire at a Covid hospital. Accelerating rollouts With the pandemic still showing no sign of slowing, governments around the world are placing their hopes in vaccines. Worldwide, the number of vaccine doses administered has doubled in less than a month Nevertheless, while the majority of poor countries have also started to vaccinate -- mainly thanks to the Covax programme -- inoculation is still largely a privilege of high-income countries, home to 16 percent of the world's population, administering 47 percent of vaccine doses. A stark contrast can be seen in low-income countries which account for just 0.2 per cent of coronavirus vaccine shots thus far. In the US, regulators have approved the re-start of a rollout of Johnson & Johnson vaccines halted over blood clotting concerns. In Europe, Belgium said Saturday it would authorise the J&J shot for all adults, having already received 36,000 doses and expecting a total of 1.4 million between April and June. The European Union as a whole said it would have enough vaccines to immunise 70 percent of its adult population by the end of July. Lockdown protests But despite the optimism, the threat of the virus remains ever-present, with Germany implementing tougher new lockdown rules, including night curfews and school closures, after the government passed a disputed new law designed to slow infections. The controversial new rules -- passed this week amid huge protests in Berlin -- will apply in all regions with incidence rates of more than 100 new infections per 100,000 people over the last seven days. And in Britain, ongoing restrictions are continuing to fuel anger. Police in London said they arrested five people, and eight officers were injured, after disorder at large-scale protests against England's remaining coronavirus restrictions, the mandatory use of masks and possible introduction of so-called vaccine passports. Britain began to gradually lift Covid-19 restrictions last month after months of curbs and a successful mass vaccination campaign. Pubs were allowed to serve customers outdoors this month and non-essential shops reopened. The demonstrators marched along several major arteries, including the main shopping district Oxford Street, with videos and photos showing thousands in attendance. Hundreds then rallied in Hyde Park late afternoon following the march. Organisers used various websites and online platform pages to encourage turnout, despite curbs which limit outdoor gatherings to 30 people. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid vaccine doses cross one billion mark worldwide

Pfizer, the US pharma giant, is planning to make a new version of its Covid vaccine that can be stored in standard freezer and comes ready for use. Currently, the Pfizer vaccine needs to be stored at minus 70 degrees Celsius.

The very low-temperature requirement has been found to be limiting the vaccine's distribution.&nbsp;

But Pfizer's chief executive Albert Bourla told AFP in an interview that a new version is in the pipeline and that he was optimistic the vaccine will also prove effective against new virus variants.

Indian variant

Bourla said Pfizer has large amounts of real-world data from some of the variant outbreaks.

"We have already data for the UK one -- I hate using the countries, but people know them like that -- which is very prominent in Israel... efficiency was 97 percent," he said.&nbsp;

"We have data from South Africa, with the South African variant, and overall the efficacy was 100 percent. And also have data from Brazil. And it looks also this is very well controlled."

Pfizer has not yet compiled sufficient data on the efficiency of its vaccine against the so-called Indian variant, the latest to raise concerns that a new wave of infections could overcome the immunisation drive.

But he said he was "optimistic" the vaccine would prove effective, and that the firm's mRNA technology can be adapted to counter new strains.

"The thing that makes me feel more comfortable is that we have developed a process that once a variant becomes a variant of concern, we should be able to have a new vaccine within 100 days," he said.&nbsp;

"It's a tough target, but I am very comfortable that we should be able to do it.&nbsp;

"And because of the effectiveness of this mRNA technology, I believe that variants will not become an issue, we'll be able to control them."

(With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer, the US pharma giant, is planning to make a new version of its Covid vaccine that can be stored in standard freezer and comes ready for use. Currently, the Pfizer vaccine needs to be stored at minus 70 degrees Celsius.

Pfizer, the US pharma giant, is planning to make a new version of its Covid vaccine that can be stored in standard freezer and comes ready for use. Currently, the Pfizer vaccine needs to be stored at minus 70 degrees Celsius. The very low-temperature requirement has been found to be limiting the vaccine's distribution. But Pfizer's chief executive Albert Bourla told AFP in an interview that a new version is in the pipeline and that he was optimistic the vaccine will also prove effective against new virus variants. Indian variant Bourla said Pfizer has large amounts of real-world data from some of the variant outbreaks. "We have already data for the UK one -- I hate using the countries, but people know them like that -- which is very prominent in Israel... efficiency was 97 percent," he said. "We have data from South Africa, with the South African variant, and overall the efficacy was 100 percent. And also have data from Brazil. And it looks also this is very well controlled." Pfizer has not yet compiled sufficient data on the efficiency of its vaccine against the so-called Indian variant, the latest to raise concerns that a new wave of infections could overcome the immunisation drive. But he said he was "optimistic" the vaccine would prove effective, and that the firm's mRNA technology can be adapted to counter new strains. "The thing that makes me feel more comfortable is that we have developed a process that once a variant becomes a variant of concern, we should be able to have a new vaccine within 100 days," he said. "It's a tough target, but I am very comfortable that we should be able to do it. "And because of the effectiveness of this mRNA technology, I believe that variants will not become an issue, we'll be able to control them." (With inputs from agencies)

New version of Pfizer Covid vaccine won't need ultra-low temperature for storage

US health regulators said on Friday that use of Johnson &amp; Johnson Covid vaccine could restart. The rollout of the vaccine was paused due to worries over blood clotting. A pause on the use of the vaccine was proposed on April 14.

An expert panel has now recommended lifting the pause because the shots benefits exceeded possible dangers.

"We have concluded that the known and potential benefits of the Janssen Covid-19 vaccine outweigh its known and potential risks in individuals 18 years of age and older," said Janet Woodcock, head of Food and Drug Administration in a joint statement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

CDC head Rochelle Walensky said "exceptionally rare events" of clotting were identified, adding that regulators will continue to monitor the rollout of the vaccines.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/use-of-single-dose-jj-covid-19-vaccine-begins-in-european-union-379485">Use of single-dose J&amp;J COVID-19 vaccine begins in European Union</a>

According to data presented Friday, of 3.9 million women who got the Johnson &amp; Johnson shot, 15 developed serious blood clots and three died.

The majority of the confirmed cases, 13 of the 15, were aged under 50 years old. There were no reported cases among men.

Europe's medicine regulator has already said on Tuesday that blood clotting should be listed as "very rare side effect of J&amp;J coronavirus vaccine.

(With inputs from agencies)

US health regulators said on Friday that use of Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine could restart. The rollout of the vaccine was paused due to worries over blood clotting.

US health regulators said on Friday that use of Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine could restart. The rollout of the vaccine was paused due to worries over blood clotting. A pause on the use of the vaccine was proposed on April 14. An expert panel has now recommended lifting the pause because the shots benefits exceeded possible dangers. "We have concluded that the known and potential benefits of the Janssen Covid-19 vaccine outweigh its known and potential risks in individuals 18 years of age and older," said Janet Woodcock, head of Food and Drug Administration in a joint statement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). CDC head Rochelle Walensky said "exceptionally rare events" of clotting were identified, adding that regulators will continue to monitor the rollout of the vaccines. Also Read | Use of single-dose J&J COVID-19 vaccine begins in European Union According to data presented Friday, of 3.9 million women who got the Johnson & Johnson shot, 15 developed serious blood clots and three died. The majority of the confirmed cases, 13 of the 15, were aged under 50 years old. There were no reported cases among men. Europe's medicine regulator has already said on Tuesday that blood clotting should be listed as "very rare side effect of J&J coronavirus vaccine. (With inputs from agencies)

US regulators approve restarting use of Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine

Pushing against the proposed Intellectual Property (IP) waiver for Covid vaccines, Pharma companies are saying that removing IP protections from Covid-19 vaccines or pressuring companies into technology sharing will not speed up production of the jabs. The companies claimed such a measure would even slow down the vaccine production.

Supporters of the measure&nbsp;to do away with IP rights say that this can enable more countries to produce the vaccines thereby increasing accessibility.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, whose country is co-leading a push at the World Trade Organization to exempt Covid-19 vaccines from IP rights, insisted Friday the jabs were "a public good and must be recognised as such".

"We call on the pharmaceutical industry to directly transfer this technology free of intellectual property barriers to low and middle-income countries," he told an event hosted by the World Health Organization.&nbsp;

"Let us together challenge vaccine nationalism and show that protecting intellectual property rights does not come at the expense of human lives."

Although vaccine makers have previously voiced commitment to co-operate for boost in production, industry representatives insisted on Friday that IP waivers and forced technology sharing was the wrong way to go.

An IP waiver "wouldn't give us the tools to produce more doses of vaccines", Thomas Cueni, head of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), told reporters.

He pointed out that around 275 manufacturing deals, including on technology transfer among staunch competitors, had helped the industry go from zero to one billion Covid-19 vaccine doses already produced, with the goal of 10 billion doses by the end of the year.

Industry players said though that that target hinged not on IP restrictions or broader technology transfers, but on resolving serious challenges, linked to trade barriers and export restrictions, hindering the movement of vaccine components and the vaccines themselves.

"Vaccine manufacturing is not just about patents," said Sai Prasad, head of quality operations at Indian vaccine maker Bharat Biotech and president of the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers' Network (DCVMN).

(With inputs from agencies)

Pushing against the proposed Intellectual Property (IP) waiver for Covid vaccines, Pharma companies are saying that removing IP protections from Covid-19 vaccines or pressuring companies into technology sharing will not speed up production of the jabs.

Pushing against the proposed Intellectual Property (IP) waiver for Covid vaccines, Pharma companies are saying that removing IP protections from Covid-19 vaccines or pressuring companies into technology sharing will not speed up production of the jabs. The companies claimed such a measure would even slow down the vaccine production. Supporters of the measure to do away with IP rights say that this can enable more countries to produce the vaccines thereby increasing accessibility. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, whose country is co-leading a push at the World Trade Organization to exempt Covid-19 vaccines from IP rights, insisted Friday the jabs were "a public good and must be recognised as such". "We call on the pharmaceutical industry to directly transfer this technology free of intellectual property barriers to low and middle-income countries," he told an event hosted by the World Health Organization. "Let us together challenge vaccine nationalism and show that protecting intellectual property rights does not come at the expense of human lives." Although vaccine makers have previously voiced commitment to co-operate for boost in production, industry representatives insisted on Friday that IP waivers and forced technology sharing was the wrong way to go. An IP waiver "wouldn't give us the tools to produce more doses of vaccines", Thomas Cueni, head of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), told reporters. He pointed out that around 275 manufacturing deals, including on technology transfer among staunch competitors, had helped the industry go from zero to one billion Covid-19 vaccine doses already produced, with the goal of 10 billion doses by the end of the year. Industry players said though that that target hinged not on IP restrictions or broader technology transfers, but on resolving serious challenges, linked to trade barriers and export restrictions, hindering the movement of vaccine components and the vaccines themselves. "Vaccine manufacturing is not just about patents," said Sai Prasad, head of quality operations at Indian vaccine maker Bharat Biotech and president of the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers' Network (DCVMN). (With inputs from agencies)

Vaccine makers oppose IP waiver, say manufacturing hurdles slowing rollout

The medical charity Doctors Without Borders/ Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) urged rich countries to not block a patent waiver plan in the upcoming meeting of World Trade Organisation (WTO). The member of WTO are due to meet informally to talk about this waiver. The patent waiver will boost global production of coronavirus vaccines.

"In this COVID-19 pandemic, we are once again faced with issues of scarcity, which can be addressed through diversification of manufacturing and supply capacity and ensuring the temporary waiver of relevant intellectual property,” said Dr Maria Guevara, MSF’s International Medical Secretary.&nbsp;

“We urge all countries in opposition to this, including the US and the EU, to stand on the right side of history and join hands with those in support. It is about saving lives at the end, not protecting systems.”&nbsp;

This 'TRIPS waiver proposal was put forward by India and South Africa in October last year. Now, the proposal has official backing of 59 sponsoring governments. Around 100 countries support the proposal overall. However, the proposal continues to be stonewalled by a small number of governments.

India is struggling with huge spike in coronavirus cases. Indian health ministry on Thursday reported a spike of more than 300,000 fresh infections within 24 hours. This is the highest recorded number for any country.

The medical charity Doctors Without Borders/ Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) urged rich countries to not block a patent waiver plan in the upcoming meeting of World Trade Organisation (WTO).

The medical charity Doctors Without Borders/ Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) urged rich countries to not block a patent waiver plan in the upcoming meeting of World Trade Organisation (WTO). The member of WTO are due to meet informally to talk about this waiver. The patent waiver will boost global production of coronavirus vaccines. "In this COVID-19 pandemic, we are once again faced with issues of scarcity, which can be addressed through diversification of manufacturing and supply capacity and ensuring the temporary waiver of relevant intellectual property,” said Dr Maria Guevara, MSF’s International Medical Secretary. “We urge all countries in opposition to this, including the US and the EU, to stand on the right side of history and join hands with those in support. It is about saving lives at the end, not protecting systems.” This 'TRIPS waiver proposal was put forward by India and South Africa in October last year. Now, the proposal has official backing of 59 sponsoring governments. Around 100 countries support the proposal overall. However, the proposal continues to be stonewalled by a small number of governments. India is struggling with huge spike in coronavirus cases. Indian health ministry on Thursday reported a spike of more than 300,000 fresh infections within 24 hours. This is the highest recorded number for any country.

MSF urges rich countries to back Covid vaccine patent waiver

Everyone above 18 years of age will be administered COVID vaccine in India,&nbsp;it was decided at a meeting chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday,&nbsp;in a boost to the fight against the pandemic that is surging in a second wave.

The liberalised and accelerated phase 3 strategy of Covid-19 vaccination will be implemented from 1st May.

Modi, attending a meeting of doctors and pharma leaders, said the government has been working hard from over a year to ensure that maximum number of Indians are able to get the vaccine in the shortest possible of time.

Pricing, procurement, eligibility and administration of vaccines are being made flexible in phase 3 of India's vaccination drive, which is the world's largest.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-must-not-relax-as-it-combats-second-wave-of-coronavirus-infections-378699">India must not relax as it combats second wave of coronavirus infections</a>

All stakeholders were given flexibility to customise to local needs and&nbsp;everyone above the age of 18 to be eligible to get vaccine.

Vaccine manufacturers will be incentivised to further scale up their production, as well as attract new national and international players, according to decisions taken at the meeting.

Vaccine makers are empowered to release up to 50% of their supply to state governments&nbsp;and in the open market at a pre-declared price.

States are empowered to procure additional vaccine doses directly from the manufacturers, as well as open up vaccination to any category of people above the age of 18 for the same.

Free vaccination will continue for essential and priority populations as defined earlier. This includes health care workers, frontline workers and those aged above 45.

Everyone above 18 years of age will be administered COVID vaccine in India, it was decided at a meeting chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, in a boost to the fight against the pandemic that is surging in a second wave.

Everyone above 18 years of age will be administered COVID vaccine in India, it was decided at a meeting chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, in a boost to the fight against the pandemic that is surging in a second wave. The liberalised and accelerated phase 3 strategy of Covid-19 vaccination will be implemented from 1st May. Modi, attending a meeting of doctors and pharma leaders, said the government has been working hard from over a year to ensure that maximum number of Indians are able to get the vaccine in the shortest possible of time. Pricing, procurement, eligibility and administration of vaccines are being made flexible in phase 3 of India's vaccination drive, which is the world's largest. Also Read | India must not relax as it combats second wave of coronavirus infections All stakeholders were given flexibility to customise to local needs and everyone above the age of 18 to be eligible to get vaccine. Vaccine manufacturers will be incentivised to further scale up their production, as well as attract new national and international players, according to decisions taken at the meeting. Vaccine makers are empowered to release up to 50% of their supply to state governments and in the open market at a pre-declared price. States are empowered to procure additional vaccine doses directly from the manufacturers, as well as open up vaccination to any category of people above the age of 18 for the same. Free vaccination will continue for essential and priority populations as defined earlier. This includes health care workers, frontline workers and those aged above 45.

India to give COVID-19 vaccines to all above 18 from May 1 in major boost to fight against pandemic

Have you received both your doses of the Wuhan Virus vaccine? The CEO of Pfizer says you'll likely need a 3rd dose. Will other vaccine-makers follow suit? Watch this report by WION's Palki Sharma to find out.

Gravitas: Why do we need a third vaccine dose?

More than 100 former world leaders and Nobel Prize winners have come together to urge US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> to support a waiver of intellectual property rules for coronavirus vaccines.

Such a waiver on patents will boost vaccine manufacturing and will also speed up the response to this global pandemic, especially in poor countries, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-slap-new-sanctions-on-russia-for-election-interference-cyber-attack-sources-377685" hreflang="en">US to slap new sanctions on Russia for election interference, cyber attack: Sources</a>

"President Biden has said that no one is safe until everyone is safe, and now with the G7 ahead there is an unparalleled opportunity to provide the leadership that only the US can provide,"&nbsp; former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said.

Former leaders of France and the UK, other 60 former heads of state and Nobel Prize winners have drafted a joint letter to Biden about this issue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-continues-pause-on-johnson-johnson-vaccine-over-reports-of-blood-clots-377746" hreflang="en">US continues pause on Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine over reports of blood clots</a>

They urged Biden to support the proposal drafted by India and South Africa at the World Trade Organization to waive intellectual property rules on a temporary basis to help support countries related to COVID-19 vaccines.

The letter calculates that the poorer countries will have to wait till 2024 to receive vaccines, on the basis of the speed with which the virus is mutating.

"New mutations of the virus will continue to cost lives and upend our interconnected global economy until everyone, everywhere has access to a safe and effective vaccine," Nobel Economics Prize winner Joseph Stiglitz said.

The letter has been signed by Francois Hollande, Mary Robinson, Fernando Henrique Cardoso, Juan Manuel Santos and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf - formerly presidents of France, Ireland, Brazil, Colombia and Liberia - and former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 100 former world leaders and Nobel Prize winners have come together to urge US President Joe Biden to support a waiver of intellectual property rules for coronavirus vaccines.

More than 100 former world leaders and Nobel Prize winners have come together to urge US President Joe Biden to support a waiver of intellectual property rules for coronavirus vaccines. Such a waiver on patents will boost vaccine manufacturing and will also speed up the response to this global pandemic, especially in poor countries, they said. Also read | US to slap new sanctions on Russia for election interference, cyber attack: Sources "President Biden has said that no one is safe until everyone is safe, and now with the G7 ahead there is an unparalleled opportunity to provide the leadership that only the US can provide," former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said. Former leaders of France and the UK, other 60 former heads of state and Nobel Prize winners have drafted a joint letter to Biden about this issue. Also read | US continues pause on Johnson & Johnson vaccine over reports of blood clots They urged Biden to support the proposal drafted by India and South Africa at the World Trade Organization to waive intellectual property rules on a temporary basis to help support countries related to COVID-19 vaccines. The letter calculates that the poorer countries will have to wait till 2024 to receive vaccines, on the basis of the speed with which the virus is mutating. "New mutations of the virus will continue to cost lives and upend our interconnected global economy until everyone, everywhere has access to a safe and effective vaccine," Nobel Economics Prize winner Joseph Stiglitz said. The letter has been signed by Francois Hollande, Mary Robinson, Fernando Henrique Cardoso, Juan Manuel Santos and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf - formerly presidents of France, Ireland, Brazil, Colombia and Liberia - and former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark. (With inputs from agencies)

Waive Covid vaccine patents: Nearly 100 former world leaders, Nobel winners join call to Biden

On the first day of 'Tika Utsav', more than 27 lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered till Sunday evening, taking the cumulative number of doses given in the country to 10,43,65,035, the Union health ministry said.

The tika utsav refers to COVID-19 vaccination drive between April 11 and 14.

The day-1 of the countrywide Tika Utsav saw many workplace vaccination centres becoming operational, it said.

As it was a Sunday, most of these were operational in the private workplaces.

"On an average, 45,000 COVID Vaccination Centres (CVCs) are functional on any given day, Today, 63,800 CVCs were operational, marking a rise of an average of 18,800 operational vaccination centres.

"Additionally, on an average, Sundays usually witness lower levels of vaccination numbers (about 16 lakh). But on the first day of Tika Utsav, more than 27 lakh vaccine doses were administered till 8 pm today," the ministry said.

The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16 with healthcare workers (HCWs) getting inoculated and vaccination of frontline workers (FLWs) started from February 2.

The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced from March 1 for those over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions.

India launched vaccination for all people aged more than 45 from April 1.

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 10,43,65,035 according to the 8 pm provisional report, the ministry said.

This has been achieved across 15,55,837 sessions, including 90,12,768 HCWs who have taken the first dose and 55,23,718 HCWs who have taken the second dose. A total of 99,94,360 FLWs have received the first dose and 47,93,536 FLWs got the second dose.

Besides, 3,19,49,793 and 6,76,609 beneficiaries, 45 to 59 years old, have been administered the 1st and 2nd dose, respectively, while 4,04,76,731 and 19,37,520 individuals above 60 years have been given the 1st and 2nd dose, respectively.

"More than 9 crore (9,14,33,652) first doses of COVID vaccine have been administered to the citizens, of which more than 4 crore (4,04,76,731) are in the above 60 years of age category," the ministry said.

A total of 27,69,888 vaccine doses were given till 8 pm on Sunday, the eighty-sixth day of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination. Out of these, 25,47,691 beneficiaries were vaccinated for the first dose and 2,22,197 beneficiaries received second dose of the vaccine, according to the provisional report, the ministry said, adding that final reports would be completed for the day by late night.

These 27,69,888 beneficiaries include 16,73,140 (who got the first dose) and 35,127 people (who got the second dose), in the 45 to 60 years old category. While 8,25,101 and 1,37,314 individuals, above 60 years, have taken the first and second doses of the vaccine, respectively.

Asserting that the tika utsav marks the beginning of another major war on COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday made several suggestions to people on curbing the virus and urged them to focus on personal and social hygiene.

In a blog addressed to the people of the country, he urged them to remember four things, including "each one, vaccinate one"- helping those getting vaccinated who are less educated and elderly and who cannot go for the jab themselves, and "each one, treat one"- helping those who do not have the means or do not know about the facilities available for vaccination.

On the first day of 'Tika Utsav', more than 27 lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered till Sunday evening, taking the cumulative number of doses given in the country to 10,43,65,035, the Union health ministry said.

On the first day of 'Tika Utsav', more than 27 lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered till Sunday evening, taking the cumulative number of doses given in the country to 10,43,65,035, the Union health ministry said. The tika utsav refers to COVID-19 vaccination drive between April 11 and 14. The day-1 of the countrywide Tika Utsav saw many workplace vaccination centres becoming operational, it said. As it was a Sunday, most of these were operational in the private workplaces. "On an average, 45,000 COVID Vaccination Centres (CVCs) are functional on any given day, Today, 63,800 CVCs were operational, marking a rise of an average of 18,800 operational vaccination centres. "Additionally, on an average, Sundays usually witness lower levels of vaccination numbers (about 16 lakh). But on the first day of Tika Utsav, more than 27 lakh vaccine doses were administered till 8 pm today," the ministry said. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16 with healthcare workers (HCWs) getting inoculated and vaccination of frontline workers (FLWs) started from February 2. The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced from March 1 for those over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. India launched vaccination for all people aged more than 45 from April 1. The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 10,43,65,035 according to the 8 pm provisional report, the ministry said. This has been achieved across 15,55,837 sessions, including 90,12,768 HCWs who have taken the first dose and 55,23,718 HCWs who have taken the second dose. A total of 99,94,360 FLWs have received the first dose and 47,93,536 FLWs got the second dose. Besides, 3,19,49,793 and 6,76,609 beneficiaries, 45 to 59 years old, have been administered the 1st and 2nd dose, respectively, while 4,04,76,731 and 19,37,520 individuals above 60 years have been given the 1st and 2nd dose, respectively. "More than 9 crore (9,14,33,652) first doses of COVID vaccine have been administered to the citizens, of which more than 4 crore (4,04,76,731) are in the above 60 years of age category," the ministry said. A total of 27,69,888 vaccine doses were given till 8 pm on Sunday, the eighty-sixth day of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination. Out of these, 25,47,691 beneficiaries were vaccinated for the first dose and 2,22,197 beneficiaries received second dose of the vaccine, according to the provisional report, the ministry said, adding that final reports would be completed for the day by late night. These 27,69,888 beneficiaries include 16,73,140 (who got the first dose) and 35,127 people (who got the second dose), in the 45 to 60 years old category. While 8,25,101 and 1,37,314 individuals, above 60 years, have taken the first and second doses of the vaccine, respectively. Asserting that the tika utsav marks the beginning of another major war on COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday made several suggestions to people on curbing the virus and urged them to focus on personal and social hygiene. In a blog addressed to the people of the country, he urged them to remember four things, including "each one, vaccinate one"- helping those getting vaccinated who are less educated and elderly and who cannot go for the jab themselves, and "each one, treat one"- helping those who do not have the means or do not know about the facilities available for vaccination.

India: More than 2.7 million COVID vaccine doses administered on Day 1 of 'Tika Utsav'

Sputnik V, the COVID-19 vaccine from Russia, has been given 'Emergency Use Authorisation' in India by a panel of experts. It is the third vaccine Indian authorities have given approval to after Bharat Biotech's Covaxin&nbsp;and the University of Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine.

The approval on Monday was given by&nbsp;Subject Expert Committee. The regulator Drug Controller General of India will have to give final nod for wider use of the doses on all citizens.

Russian Direct Investment Fund or RDIF is behind the Sputnik V vaccine. The vaccine will be produced in India under a pact between RDIF and Indian Pharma companies like Dr Reddy's, Virchow, Stelis Biopharma and Panacea Biotec. The pacts were already in place, given that India is the hub of global manufacturing of vaccines. Around 750 million doses of the Sputnik V vaccine are expected to be produced in India.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-ignore-these-new-oral-symptoms-of-covid-19-377054">Don't ignore these new oral symptoms of Covid-19</a>

Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was in New Delhi.

On a question about Sputnik V vaccine approval, he said,"I do not rule out that further cooperation in this area could encompass vaccine production in Russia. Specialists should discuss it and proceed on the basis of the maximum effectiveness of such cooperation."

Sputnik V is already registered in more than 59 countries. The efficacy of the two-shot vaccine is over 91.6%. According to RDIF.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/these-are-the-three-new-symptoms-of-covid-19-dont-take-them-lightly-375900">These are the three new symptoms of COVID-19. Don't take them lightly</a>

"The cost of one dose of the vaccine for international markets is less than $10 (Sputnik V is a two-dose vaccine)."&nbsp;

The vaccine can be stored at a temperature of +2 to +8 degrees Celsius. The vaccine is named after the first Soviet space satellite.

Sputnik V, the COVID-19 vaccine from Russia, has been given 'Emergency Use Authorisation' in India by a panel of experts. It is the third vaccine Indian authorities have given approval to after Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and the University of Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine.

Sputnik V, the COVID-19 vaccine from Russia, has been given 'Emergency Use Authorisation' in India by a panel of experts. It is the third vaccine Indian authorities have given approval to after Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and the University of Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine. The approval on Monday was given by Subject Expert Committee. The regulator Drug Controller General of India will have to give final nod for wider use of the doses on all citizens. Russian Direct Investment Fund or RDIF is behind the Sputnik V vaccine. The vaccine will be produced in India under a pact between RDIF and Indian Pharma companies like Dr Reddy's, Virchow, Stelis Biopharma and Panacea Biotec. The pacts were already in place, given that India is the hub of global manufacturing of vaccines. Around 750 million doses of the Sputnik V vaccine are expected to be produced in India. Also Read | Don't ignore these new oral symptoms of Covid-19 Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was in New Delhi. On a question about Sputnik V vaccine approval, he said,"I do not rule out that further cooperation in this area could encompass vaccine production in Russia. Specialists should discuss it and proceed on the basis of the maximum effectiveness of such cooperation." Sputnik V is already registered in more than 59 countries. The efficacy of the two-shot vaccine is over 91.6%. According to RDIF. Also Read | These are the three new symptoms of COVID-19. Don't take them lightly "The cost of one dose of the vaccine for international markets is less than $10 (Sputnik V is a two-dose vaccine)." The vaccine can be stored at a temperature of +2 to +8 degrees Celsius. The vaccine is named after the first Soviet space satellite.

Russia's Sputnik V COVID vaccine gets emergency nod from expert panel in India

At least 6 Indian states have complained of a scarcity of COVID-19 vaccines during a second wave of Coronavirus, that has forced some centres to turn away people.

India: COVID-19 vaccine shortages being reported by at least 6 states

Russia's Sputnik V vaccine has been cleared for emergency use in India amid a record spike in COVID-19 cases. An expert committee approved the restricted use of the Russian vaccine.

Russia's Sputnik V vaccine cleared for emergency use in India

India has granted emergency use approval to the Russian Sputnik V against the Coronavirus. After Covishield and Covaxin, Sputnik V became the third vaccine approved by the country against COVID-19.

India gives green signal to Russian vaccine Sputnik V

Experts suggest that different vaccine combinations could work together to enforce the body’s immune response to the virus, there is currently no evidence it will be as effective.

No data currently available on mixing COVID vaccines: WHO

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