Vaccine makers Moderna Inc and Pfizer Inc, with its German partner BioNTech, have been vocal in their view that the world will soon need COVID-19 booster shots to maintain high levels of immunity.

Are we really in need of COVID-19 booster shots?

A new British study has found that Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is more effective if the second dose is delayed to 12-weeks after the first. The study, which has not yet been peer reviewed—found that delaying the second dose to 12 weeks led to an antibody response that was three-and-half times larger than when vaccine doses were kept to the standard recommendation of three weeks apart

Study: Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine doses more effective with a 12-week gap

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

Gravitas: European Union ditches AstraZeneca

Individuals who receive a single dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine have approximately 80% lower risk of death with COVID-19 compared with unvaccinated people, according to a new Public Health England (PHE) analysis.

Data from the analyses also showed that protection against death from the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine rises from approximately 80% after one dose to 97% after two doses. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-pfizer-biontechs-covid-vaccine-for-children-aged-12-15-384195">Also read | US approves Pfizer-BioNTech's Covid vaccine for children aged 12-15</a> 
 
At the time when there is a continuous race of efficacy of Covid-19 vaccine candidates across the world, the recent data from the rollout of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine shows a positive sign.

PHE said the study was the first on protection against mortality from the AstraZeneca vaccine based on data from a real-world setting. The study looked at new symptomatic cases of COVID-19 between December and April and people who died within 28 days of their positive test by vaccination status.

People who had a single dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine were 55% protected against death, with a figure of 44% protection for a single dose of Pfizer, compared to unvaccinated people.&nbsp;

"Combined with the protection vaccines offer against becoming a case in the first place, this is equivalent to approximately 80% protection against mortality in individuals vaccinated with a single dose of either vaccine," PHE said in a statement.

Protection against mortality from the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine improved to 69% for cases who had their second dose at least a week before they tested positive. Combined with the estimated protection from getting COVID-19 to start with, this is equivalent to an estimated 97% protection, PHE said.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to confirm the further easing of lockdown restrictions in England on Monday, helped in part by the speed of the country's vaccine rollout. In another dataset, PHE said that it was estimated that two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine reduce the risk of hospitalisation by 93% for the over 80s.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Individuals who receive a single dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine have approximately 80% lower risk of death with COVID-19 compared with unvaccinated people, according to a new Public Health England (PHE) analysis.

Individuals who receive a single dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine have approximately 80% lower risk of death with COVID-19 compared with unvaccinated people, according to a new Public Health England (PHE) analysis. Data from the analyses also showed that protection against death from the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine rises from approximately 80% after one dose to 97% after two doses. Also read | US approves Pfizer-BioNTech's Covid vaccine for children aged 12-15 At the time when there is a continuous race of efficacy of Covid-19 vaccine candidates across the world, the recent data from the rollout of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine shows a positive sign. PHE said the study was the first on protection against mortality from the AstraZeneca vaccine based on data from a real-world setting. The study looked at new symptomatic cases of COVID-19 between December and April and people who died within 28 days of their positive test by vaccination status. People who had a single dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine were 55% protected against death, with a figure of 44% protection for a single dose of Pfizer, compared to unvaccinated people. "Combined with the protection vaccines offer against becoming a case in the first place, this is equivalent to approximately 80% protection against mortality in individuals vaccinated with a single dose of either vaccine," PHE said in a statement. Protection against mortality from the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine improved to 69% for cases who had their second dose at least a week before they tested positive. Combined with the estimated protection from getting COVID-19 to start with, this is equivalent to an estimated 97% protection, PHE said. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to confirm the further easing of lockdown restrictions in England on Monday, helped in part by the speed of the country's vaccine rollout. In another dataset, PHE said that it was estimated that two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine reduce the risk of hospitalisation by 93% for the over 80s. (With inputs from agencies)

One AstraZeneca Covid vaccine dose cuts death risk by 80%, 2 Pfizer doses by 97%: UK agency

Sri Lanka has now become the first South Asian nation to approve Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Sri Lanka to order 5 Million Pfizer doses.

Coronavirus Update: Sri Lanka to order 5 Million Pfizer doses

Doctors and nurses with fang stickers on their scrubs are offering free Pfizer shots to all-comers at 14th century Bran Castle, which is purported to be an inspiration for the vampire's towering home in Bram Stoker’s novel "Dracula".

COVID-19: 'Dracula's Castle' offers tourists COVID shots

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.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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

Sri Lanka on Saturday approved Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use in Sri Lanka, as the island nation battles a third wave of the virus, while suffering a restricted supply of vaccines from neighboring India.

Dr. Sudharshani Fernandopulle, the minister overseeing the fight against the epidemic, said in a statement the government would order 5 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pandemic-political-instability-economic-crisis-rattles-nepal-383631" hreflang="en">Pandemic, political instability, economic crisis rattles Nepal &nbsp;</a>

Sri Lanka is seeking to secure other vaccines as the Serum Institute of India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer, has suspended the delivery of AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine due to spiraling coronavirus infections in India.

Sri Lanka is the first country in South Asia to approve the Pfizer vaccine. It has also approved Russia's Sputnik and China's Sinopharm vaccines for emergency use.

The island nation reported 1,914 new cases and 19 deaths in the past 24 hours, according to federal health data, and its total number of active cases is higher than any point since the pandemic began. Infections surged after crowded celebrations for traditional New Year last month.

Sri Lanka on Saturday approved Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use in Sri Lanka, as the island nation battles a third wave of the virus, while suffering a restricted supply of vaccines from neighboring India.

Sri Lanka on Saturday approved Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use in Sri Lanka, as the island nation battles a third wave of the virus, while suffering a restricted supply of vaccines from neighboring India. Dr. Sudharshani Fernandopulle, the minister overseeing the fight against the epidemic, said in a statement the government would order 5 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine. Also read | Pandemic, political instability, economic crisis rattles Nepal Sri Lanka is seeking to secure other vaccines as the Serum Institute of India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer, has suspended the delivery of AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine due to spiraling coronavirus infections in India. Sri Lanka is the first country in South Asia to approve the Pfizer vaccine. It has also approved Russia's Sputnik and China's Sinopharm vaccines for emergency use. The island nation reported 1,914 new cases and 19 deaths in the past 24 hours, according to federal health data, and its total number of active cases is higher than any point since the pandemic began. Infections surged after crowded celebrations for traditional New Year last month.

Sri Lanka approves Pfizer COVID vaccine for emergency use

Pharma giants Pfizer and BioNTech said on Friday that they were seeking approval for use of their vaccines for individuals aged 16 and above. The companies are planning to submi data to support application "on a rolling basis over the coming weeks" to US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they said in a press release.

USFDA approved the vaccines in December for emergency use.

The companies are now seeking a "Biologics License Application" for permanent regulatory approval, which "requires longer-term follow-up data for acceptance and approval," the companies said.

The information will include data on the vaccine efficacy and safety profile up to six months after the second dose in a phase-three clinical trial.

"We are proud of the tremendous progress we've made since December in delivering vaccines to millions of Americans, in collaboration with the US government," said Pfizer Chief Executive Albert Bourla.

"We look forward to working with the FDA to complete this rolling submission and support their review, with the goal of securing full regulatory approval of the vaccine in the coming months."

Both the companies have also submitted data in order to obtain emergency use approval for the vaccine to be used for individuals 12 to 15 years. Pfizer said earlier in the week that it expects imminent US approval for this application.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pharma giants Pfizer and BioNTech said on Friday that they were seeking approval for use of their vaccines for individuals aged 16 and above. The companies are planning to submi data to support application "on a rolling basis over the coming weeks" to US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they said in a press release.

Pharma giants Pfizer and BioNTech said on Friday that they were seeking approval for use of their vaccines for individuals aged 16 and above. The companies are planning to submi data to support application "on a rolling basis over the coming weeks" to US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they said in a press release. USFDA approved the vaccines in December for emergency use. The companies are now seeking a "Biologics License Application" for permanent regulatory approval, which "requires longer-term follow-up data for acceptance and approval," the companies said. The information will include data on the vaccine efficacy and safety profile up to six months after the second dose in a phase-three clinical trial. "We are proud of the tremendous progress we've made since December in delivering vaccines to millions of Americans, in collaboration with the US government," said Pfizer Chief Executive Albert Bourla. "We look forward to working with the FDA to complete this rolling submission and support their review, with the goal of securing full regulatory approval of the vaccine in the coming months." Both the companies have also submitted data in order to obtain emergency use approval for the vaccine to be used for individuals 12 to 15 years. Pfizer said earlier in the week that it expects imminent US approval for this application. (With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer, BioNTech seek approval for Covid vaccine for teens

Canada has authorised the use of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of 12 and older. It is the first country to do so for this age group. The country's health ministry made the decision based on data from phase three clinical trials on children.

Canada authorises Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for kids age 12 and older

When new inventions emerge, divides within society become more apparent. For instance, the television or the cell phone was owned only by a select few. The same thing is now happening with vaccines.

In the United States, if you received a single shot Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine, you’re a one-doser. If you received Moderna, you part of the middle class. And if you got the Pfizer shots, you are the real deal - a double-dosed Pfizer elite, as evident on social media. In memes across social media, Pfizer is made to look like the rich man's jab. One user called it decadent and luxurious. Of course, this is all hogwash. The best vaccine is the vaccine you get.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pfizers-bumper-profit-from-vaccine-sales-383086">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pfizers-bumper-profit-from-vaccine-sales-383086/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

How did Pfizer build&nbsp;this brand?

Pfizer is a pharmaceutical&nbsp;veteran and the company was founded way back in 1849. Almost a century later, they had their biggest breakthrough. They successfully mass-produced penicillin. Today, they are among the leading pharmaceutical&nbsp; giants in the world. Last year, they reported $9.6 billion in profits, way before the vaccine rollout.

Pfizer's first quarter report logged&nbsp;$3.5 billion in revenue. Nearly a quarter of all revenue came from the jabs. Pfizer didn't actually publish profit data, but said that it would be in the high 20 per cent range, around $900 million in three months pre-tax.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/canada-becomes-first-country-to-authorise-pfizer-covid-vaccine-for-kids-age-12-and-up-383033" hreflang="en">Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up</a>

So Pfizer is saving lives and getting rich doing it. But who is Pfizer selling to? Apparently, the world's rich. They are planning to produce 2.5 billion doses this year out of which only 40 million will go to Covax, just 2 per cent of their total output. In contrast, the much smaller Moderna are giving 500 million.

Pfizer is earning money by selling to the rich and by signing opaque deals with different price tags in each country. Some reports say the US is paying $19.5 per dose while Israel is paying $30.

What about India?

Pfizer is watching India closely. They recently donated medicines worth $70 million to India. It is being called Pfizer's largest humanitarian effort in history, and the company is in talks with the Indian government to seek speedy approval of vaccines.

Pfizer was the first to seek emergency approval for its vaccine in India last year. But in February, they pulled out. India wanted a small local safety trial but Pfizer was unwilling.

During the ongoing second wave, India continues to face vaccine shortages so regulations were relaxed. All foreign jabs approved by major regulators were fast-tracked with one condition: They had to organise a domestic trial within 30 days of approval.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/business-economy/pfizer-raises-2021-sales-forecast-for-covid-vaccines-to-26-billion-382891" hreflang="en">Pfizer raises 2021 sales forecast for Covid vaccines to $26 billion</a>

A Pfizer spokesperson was asked whether the company had sought a waiver for domestic trials. She replied that Pfizer's application was backed by overseas trial data and added that the jab was already endorsed by all major regulators.

Assuming the jab is cleared, two worries still remain - cost and storage. Pfizer has promised to deliver its vaccine at low cost to India. Pfizer jabs are stored at minus 70 degree celsius and India does not have the infrastructure for this.

The company says they could deliver the shots in specially designed containers right to the vaccination centres. And the shelf life of Pfizer vaccines can be extended by days through dry ice. So if and when the Pfizer jabs arrive, they will have to fly off the shelves. It would be much easier if Pfizer shared their formulas with Indian producers but they are big on patents.

Pfizer successfully mass-produced penicillin during World War 2. Thousands of allied soldiers lived because of Pfizer. Today, that same company is making millions from a crisis and&nbsp;India is Pfizer's shot at redemption.

When new inventions emerge, divides within society become more apparent. For instance, the television or the cell phone was owned only by a select few. The same thing is now happening with vaccines.

When new inventions emerge, divides within society become more apparent. For instance, the television or the cell phone was owned only by a select few. The same thing is now happening with vaccines. In the United States, if you received a single shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you’re a one-doser. If you received Moderna, you part of the middle class. And if you got the Pfizer shots, you are the real deal - a double-dosed Pfizer elite, as evident on social media. In memes across social media, Pfizer is made to look like the rich man's jab. One user called it decadent and luxurious. Of course, this is all hogwash. The best vaccine is the vaccine you get. Watch | How did Pfizer build this brand? Pfizer is a pharmaceutical veteran and the company was founded way back in 1849. Almost a century later, they had their biggest breakthrough. They successfully mass-produced penicillin. Today, they are among the leading pharmaceutical giants in the world. Last year, they reported $9.6 billion in profits, way before the vaccine rollout. Pfizer's first quarter report logged $3.5 billion in revenue. Nearly a quarter of all revenue came from the jabs. Pfizer didn't actually publish profit data, but said that it would be in the high 20 per cent range, around $900 million in three months pre-tax. Also read: Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up So Pfizer is saving lives and getting rich doing it. But who is Pfizer selling to? Apparently, the world's rich. They are planning to produce 2.5 billion doses this year out of which only 40 million will go to Covax, just 2 per cent of their total output. In contrast, the much smaller Moderna are giving 500 million. Pfizer is earning money by selling to the rich and by signing opaque deals with different price tags in each country. Some reports say the US is paying $19.5 per dose while Israel is paying $30. What about India? Pfizer is watching India closely. They recently donated medicines worth $70 million to India. It is being called Pfizer's largest humanitarian effort in history, and the company is in talks with the Indian government to seek speedy approval of vaccines. Pfizer was the first to seek emergency approval for its vaccine in India last year. But in February, they pulled out. India wanted a small local safety trial but Pfizer was unwilling. During the ongoing second wave, India continues to face vaccine shortages so regulations were relaxed. All foreign jabs approved by major regulators were fast-tracked with one condition: They had to organise a domestic trial within 30 days of approval. Also read: Pfizer raises 2021 sales forecast for Covid vaccines to $26 billion A Pfizer spokesperson was asked whether the company had sought a waiver for domestic trials. She replied that Pfizer's application was backed by overseas trial data and added that the jab was already endorsed by all major regulators. Assuming the jab is cleared, two worries still remain - cost and storage. Pfizer has promised to deliver its vaccine at low cost to India. Pfizer jabs are stored at minus 70 degree celsius and India does not have the infrastructure for this. The company says they could deliver the shots in specially designed containers right to the vaccination centres. And the shelf life of Pfizer vaccines can be extended by days through dry ice. So if and when the Pfizer jabs arrive, they will have to fly off the shelves. It would be much easier if Pfizer shared their formulas with Indian producers but they are big on patents. Pfizer successfully mass-produced penicillin during World War 2. Thousands of allied soldiers lived because of Pfizer. Today, that same company is making millions from a crisis and India is Pfizer's shot at redemption.

COVID-19: Why India is Pfizer's shot at redemption

The largest study on the Pfizer-BioNTech <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine </a>so far has found that the drug provided more than 95 per cent protection against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">deadly virus</a>, but these numbers significantly drop when only one of the two prescribed doses are taken.&nbsp;

An analysis of public health data from Israel revealed that the vaccine was even very effective for the elderly even at a time when a more infectious English variant was raising concerns.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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In Israel, about 5 million people have received two doses of Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, making the country one of the leaders in fully vaccinating its adults with more than 70 per cent of the population inoculated.&nbsp;

The study, published in the Lancet medical journal, found that the two shots of the vaccine provide 95.3 per cent protection against infection and 96.7 per cent protection against death seven days after the second dose.&nbsp;

This protection increased to 96.5 and 98 per cent respectively after 14 days.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-becomes-first-country-to-authorise-pfizer-covid-vaccine-for-kids-age-12-and-up-383033">Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up</a>

However, the study found, that the protection was extremely low when a single dose of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is taken.&nbsp;

Between seven and 14 days after taking the first dose, the protection appeared 57.7 per cent against infection and 77 per cent against death.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The largest study on the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine so far has found that the drug provided more than 95 per cent protection against the deadly virus, but these numbers significantly drop when only one of the two prescribed doses are taken.

The largest study on the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine so far has found that the drug provided more than 95 per cent protection against the deadly virus, but these numbers significantly drop when only one of the two prescribed doses are taken. An analysis of public health data from Israel revealed that the vaccine was even very effective for the elderly even at a time when a more infectious English variant was raising concerns. Watch | In Israel, about 5 million people have received two doses of Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, making the country one of the leaders in fully vaccinating its adults with more than 70 per cent of the population inoculated. The study, published in the Lancet medical journal, found that the two shots of the vaccine provide 95.3 per cent protection against infection and 96.7 per cent protection against death seven days after the second dose. This protection increased to 96.5 and 98 per cent respectively after 14 days. Also read | Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up However, the study found, that the protection was extremely low when a single dose of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is taken. Between seven and 14 days after taking the first dose, the protection appeared 57.7 per cent against infection and 77 per cent against death. (With inputs from agencies)

Largest study on Pfizer Covid vaccine says drug offers over 95% protection

Pfizer reported $3.5 billion in revenue from the sale of its covid vaccine in Q1. But most of these sales have targeted the richer countries. With an openly declared intention to churn profits, has Pfizer become the rich man's jab?

Gravitas: Pfizer's bumper profit from vaccine sales

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;

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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

Canada on Wednesday approved the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in children aged 12 years and up, becoming the first nation to do so.

"This is the first vaccine authorized in Canada for the prevention of Covid-19 in children and marks a significant milestone in Canada's fight against the pandemic," Health Canada chief medical advisor Supriya Sharma told a news conference.

Data from clinical trials show the vaccine is as safe for adolescents as it is for adults, she said.

The US&nbsp;Food and Drug Administration is also expected to authorise Pfizer's vaccine for young by next week, setting up shots for many before the beginning of the next school year. The announcement comes barely a month after the company found that its shot, which is already authorized for those age 16 and older, also provided protection for the younger group.

Pfizer in late March released preliminary results from a vaccine study of 2,260 US&nbsp;volunteers ages 12 to 15 showing there were no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared with 18 among those given dummy shots.

Kids had side effects similar to young adults, the company said. The main side effects are pain, fever, chills and fatigue, particularly after the second dose. The study will continue to track participants for two years for more information about long-term protection and safety.

Vaccinations have ramped in Canada in months and expects to receive at least 10 million vaccines this month. More than 34 per cent of Canadians have received at least one dose.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Canada on Wednesday approved the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in children aged 12 years and up, becoming the first nation to do so. "This is the first vaccine authorized in Canada for the prevention of Covid-19 in children and marks a significant milestone in Canada's fight against the pandemic," Health Canada chief medical advisor Supriya Sharma told a news conference.

Canada on Wednesday approved the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in children aged 12 years and up, becoming the first nation to do so. "This is the first vaccine authorized in Canada for the prevention of Covid-19 in children and marks a significant milestone in Canada's fight against the pandemic," Health Canada chief medical advisor Supriya Sharma told a news conference. Data from clinical trials show the vaccine is as safe for adolescents as it is for adults, she said. The US Food and Drug Administration is also expected to authorise Pfizer's vaccine for young by next week, setting up shots for many before the beginning of the next school year. The announcement comes barely a month after the company found that its shot, which is already authorized for those age 16 and older, also provided protection for the younger group. Pfizer in late March released preliminary results from a vaccine study of 2,260 US volunteers ages 12 to 15 showing there were no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared with 18 among those given dummy shots. Kids had side effects similar to young adults, the company said. The main side effects are pain, fever, chills and fatigue, particularly after the second dose. The study will continue to track participants for two years for more information about long-term protection and safety. Vaccinations have ramped in Canada in months and expects to receive at least 10 million vaccines this month. More than 34 per cent of Canadians have received at least one dose. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up

In a bid to make the country completely <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">covid-free</a>, the UK government will be offering a third shot of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine?page=1">coronavirus vaccine</a>s to everyone aged above 50 in the autumn.

To carry out the process, two options are being tested under the supervision of the country’s chief medical officer, Chris Whitty. The first option is being designed keeping in mind the new variants that are evolving all over the world. The second one will be a third shot against the already existing versions of Pfizer-BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca, and Moderna, as reported by The Times newspaper.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-allocates-ps293-million-to-new-covid-labs-amid-fears-of-third-wave-382844" hreflang="en">UK allocates £29.3 million to new Covid labs amid fears of third wave</a>

Till now, more than 34.6 million people, out of a population of 67 million, have been administered the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine. The government is hoping to be able to eradicate the virus completely from the country by next Christmas.

Britain already has nearly 510 million doses of eight different coronavirus vaccines — some being under development — and the country will be buying an additional 60 million doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine soon, Matt Hancock announced.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccine-profits-why-big-pharma-is-defending-patents-amid-pandemic-382817" hreflang="en">Vaccine profits: Why big pharma is defending patents amid pandemic</a>

This announcement came a few days after the government announced that the secondary school students could be offered Covid-19 vaccinations from September under plans being developed by the NHS, it is claimed, as Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab urged caution on the “last lap” of the fight against coronavirus.

The country has also decided to invest £29.3 million in new coronavirus laboratories in an effort to "future-proof the country from the threat of new variants,"&nbsp;the Boris Johnson-led government announced on Wednesday.

In a bid to make the country completely covid-free, the UK government will be offering a third shot of the coronavirus vaccines to everyone aged above 50 in the autumn.

In a bid to make the country completely covid-free, the UK government will be offering a third shot of the coronavirus vaccines to everyone aged above 50 in the autumn. To carry out the process, two options are being tested under the supervision of the country’s chief medical officer, Chris Whitty. The first option is being designed keeping in mind the new variants that are evolving all over the world. The second one will be a third shot against the already existing versions of Pfizer-BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca, and Moderna, as reported by The Times newspaper. Also read | UK allocates £29.3 million to new Covid labs amid fears of third wave Till now, more than 34.6 million people, out of a population of 67 million, have been administered the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine. The government is hoping to be able to eradicate the virus completely from the country by next Christmas. Britain already has nearly 510 million doses of eight different coronavirus vaccines — some being under development — and the country will be buying an additional 60 million doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine soon, Matt Hancock announced. Also read | Vaccine profits: Why big pharma is defending patents amid pandemic This announcement came a few days after the government announced that the secondary school students could be offered Covid-19 vaccinations from September under plans being developed by the NHS, it is claimed, as Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab urged caution on the “last lap” of the fight against coronavirus. The country has also decided to invest £29.3 million in new coronavirus laboratories in an effort to "future-proof the country from the threat of new variants," the Boris Johnson-led government announced on Wednesday.

UK: Locals above 50 to be given third dose against coronavirus in autumn: Reports

According to reports, the US Food and Drug Administration is expected to authorize Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for young adults age 12 and older by next week. The announcement is set to come a month after the company founded the vaccine is already authorized for those age 16 and older, also provided protection for the younger group.

US: FDA to approve Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for teens by next week

Pfizer is in discussions with the Indian government seeking an expedited approval pathway for its COVID-19 vaccine, the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Albert Bourla said on Monday.

Pfizer in talks with Indian govt over expedited approval of COVID-19 vaccine

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

The United States is expected to authorise the&nbsp;Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine for children age 12 and up by early next week, US media reported on Monday.

Pfizer&nbsp;has applied for emergency use authorisation for its Covid vaccine for children and teenagers between ages 12 and 15, according to CNN, citing a government official.

"The FDA will have to amend the emergency use authorization for the vaccine, but the process should be straightforward," CNN reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Pfizer donates 'largest humanitarian relief' worth $70 million to India">Pfizer donates 'largest humanitarian relief' worth $70 million to India</a>

The US Food and Drug Administration is expected to grant that approval by early next week. After the FDA decision, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory committee will meet to recommend how the vaccine should be used.

A spokeswoman for the FDA declined to give details on the approval timeline, telling The Washington Post: "We are working to review this request as quickly and transparently as possible."

The&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;vaccine is currently authorised for people 16 and older in the United States.

The US pharmaceutical giant said in late March it had submitted data from a clinical trial of 2,260 12- to 15-year-olds that showed the vaccine was highly effective and well-tolerated.

Further testing on younger children is ongoing.

Moderna is conducting trials of its vaccine in teens, with results expected in the summer, as well as in younger children.

Johnson &amp; Johnson is also planning pediatric trials for its vaccine.

Expanding vaccine authorization to include adolescents could open up the US mass vaccination program to millions more people.

The national vaccination rate peaked around April 11, according to official data, and although 55 percent of US adults now have had one or more doses, there's still a long way to go to achieve population immunity against Covid.

The people most eager to get their shots have, for the most part, already rolled up their sleeves and done so.

But vaccine hesitancy remains a major obstacle: a large percentage of US adults don't plan to get the shot and could potentially refuse to get their children vaccinated.

Among Republican voters, 29 per cent say they will never take the vaccine, compared to five per cent of Democrats and nine per cent of independents, according to a recent survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation.&nbsp;

The United States is expected to authorise the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine for children age 12 and up by early next week, US media reported on Monday. Pfizer has applied for emergency use authorisation for its Covid vaccine for children and teenagers between ages 12 and 15, according to CNN, citing a government official.

The United States is expected to authorise the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine for children age 12 and up by early next week, US media reported on Monday. Pfizer has applied for emergency use authorisation for its Covid vaccine for children and teenagers between ages 12 and 15, according to CNN, citing a government official. "The FDA will have to amend the emergency use authorization for the vaccine, but the process should be straightforward," CNN reported. Also read: Pfizer donates 'largest humanitarian relief' worth $70 million to India The US Food and Drug Administration is expected to grant that approval by early next week. After the FDA decision, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory committee will meet to recommend how the vaccine should be used. A spokeswoman for the FDA declined to give details on the approval timeline, telling The Washington Post: "We are working to review this request as quickly and transparently as possible." The Pfizer vaccine is currently authorised for people 16 and older in the United States. The US pharmaceutical giant said in late March it had submitted data from a clinical trial of 2,260 12- to 15-year-olds that showed the vaccine was highly effective and well-tolerated. Further testing on younger children is ongoing. Moderna is conducting trials of its vaccine in teens, with results expected in the summer, as well as in younger children. Johnson & Johnson is also planning pediatric trials for its vaccine. Expanding vaccine authorization to include adolescents could open up the US mass vaccination program to millions more people. The national vaccination rate peaked around April 11, according to official data, and although 55 percent of US adults now have had one or more doses, there's still a long way to go to achieve population immunity against Covid. The people most eager to get their shots have, for the most part, already rolled up their sleeves and done so. But vaccine hesitancy remains a major obstacle: a large percentage of US adults don't plan to get the shot and could potentially refuse to get their children vaccinated. Among Republican voters, 29 per cent say they will never take the vaccine, compared to five per cent of Democrats and nine per cent of independents, according to a recent survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

US to authorise Pfizer vaccine for age 12 and up: Report

Pfizer&nbsp;is in discussions with the Indian government seeking an "expedited approval pathway" for its COVID-19 vaccine, its CEO Albert Bourla said on LinkedIn on Monday, announcing a donation of medicines worth more than $70 million.

"We are deeply concerned by the critical COVID-19 situation in India, and our hearts go out to you, your loved ones and all the people of India," he said in a mail sent to Pfizer India employees that he posted on&nbsp;LinkedIn.

Pfizer is committed to being a partner in India's fight against this disease and is quickly working to mobilise the largest humanitarian relief effort in the company's history, he added.

"Right now, Pfizer colleagues at distribution centres in the US, Europe and Asia are hard at work rushing shipments of Pfizer medicines that the Government of India has identified as part of its COVID treatment protocol," Bourla said.

Pfizer is donating these medicines to help make sure that every COVID-19 patient in every public hospital across India can have access to the company's medicines they need free of charge, he added.

"These medicines, valued at more than $70 million, will be made available immediately, and we will work closely with the government and our NGO partners to get them to where they are needed most," Bourla said.

This effort, in combination with Pfizer Foundation funding that supports humanitarian organisations providing essential and life-saving equipment to India, such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators and consumables, is our most comprehensive humanitarian relief response ever, he added.

He also said that the company is aware that access to vaccines is critical to ending this pandemic.

"Unfortunately, our vaccine is not registered in India although our application was submitted months ago. We are currently discussing with the Indian government an expedited approval pathway to make our Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available for use in the country," Bourla said.

Pfizer stands in solidarity with all those currently affected by COVID-19 in India and around the world and will continue to do everything possible to provide assistance, he added.

"As we work to meet the public health need and to be a partner with the Government of India to establish a path forward for our vaccine, please know you and your loved ones are foremost in our thoughts and prayers," Bourla said.

Earlier in April, Pfizer said that it had offered a not-for-profit price for its vaccine for the government immunisation programme in India.

"Pfizer remains committed to continuing our engagement with the government towards making the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine available for use in the government's immunisation programme in the country," the company had said in April.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer is in discussions with the Indian government seeking an "expedited approval pathway" for its COVID-19 vaccine, its CEO Albert Bourla said on LinkedIn on Monday, announcing a donation of medicines worth more than $70 million.

Pfizer is in discussions with the Indian government seeking an "expedited approval pathway" for its COVID-19 vaccine, its CEO Albert Bourla said on LinkedIn on Monday, announcing a donation of medicines worth more than $70 million. "We are deeply concerned by the critical COVID-19 situation in India, and our hearts go out to you, your loved ones and all the people of India," he said in a mail sent to Pfizer India employees that he posted on LinkedIn. Pfizer is committed to being a partner in India's fight against this disease and is quickly working to mobilise the largest humanitarian relief effort in the company's history, he added. "Right now, Pfizer colleagues at distribution centres in the US, Europe and Asia are hard at work rushing shipments of Pfizer medicines that the Government of India has identified as part of its COVID treatment protocol," Bourla said. Pfizer is donating these medicines to help make sure that every COVID-19 patient in every public hospital across India can have access to the company's medicines they need free of charge, he added. "These medicines, valued at more than $70 million, will be made available immediately, and we will work closely with the government and our NGO partners to get them to where they are needed most," Bourla said. This effort, in combination with Pfizer Foundation funding that supports humanitarian organisations providing essential and life-saving equipment to India, such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators and consumables, is our most comprehensive humanitarian relief response ever, he added. He also said that the company is aware that access to vaccines is critical to ending this pandemic. "Unfortunately, our vaccine is not registered in India although our application was submitted months ago. We are currently discussing with the Indian government an expedited approval pathway to make our Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available for use in the country," Bourla said. Pfizer stands in solidarity with all those currently affected by COVID-19 in India and around the world and will continue to do everything possible to provide assistance, he added. "As we work to meet the public health need and to be a partner with the Government of India to establish a path forward for our vaccine, please know you and your loved ones are foremost in our thoughts and prayers," Bourla said. Earlier in April, Pfizer said that it had offered a not-for-profit price for its vaccine for the government immunisation programme in India. "Pfizer remains committed to continuing our engagement with the government towards making the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine available for use in the government's immunisation programme in the country," the company had said in April. (With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer donates 'largest humanitarian relief' worth $70 million to India

Pfizer Inc's shipment of COVID-19 vaccine to Mexico this week includes doses made in its US&nbsp;plant, the first of what are expected to be ongoing exports of its shots from the United States, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Thursday.

The vaccine shipment, produced at Pfizer's Kalamazoo, Michigan plant, marks the first time the drugmaker has delivered abroad from U.S facilities after a Trump-era restriction on dose exports expired at the end of March, the source said.

The US&nbsp;government has been under mounting pressure in recent weeks to provide surplus vaccines to other nations desperately in need as it makes swift progress vaccinating its own residents. Many countries where the virus is still rampant are struggling to acquire vaccine supplies to help tame the pandemic.

Wealthy governments have been trying to stock up on COVID-19 shots from Pfizer and Moderna Inc because of their extremely high efficacy and after safety concerns and production problems temporarily sidelined vaccines from AstraZeneca Plc and Johnson &amp; Johnson.

Pfizer has shipped more than 10 million doses to Mexico so far, becoming its largest supplier of COVID-19 vaccine.

Pfizer and German partner BioNTech SE have been supplying other countries with doses from its main European production plant in Belgium.

Mexico’s health ministry said it is receiving 2 million doses from Pfizer this week. It has received more than a million doses from Belgium since Wednesday and expects around another million this week. Reuters could not confirm if all the remaining Pfizer doses would come from Michigan.

Pfizer will use extra capacity in its US&nbsp;facilities to deliver shots abroad while continuing to meet its commitment to supply the United States, the source said, adding that the drugmaker will also make shipments from Belgium.

Pfizer has said it will be making up to 25 million shots each week in the United States by mid-year, which is more than it needs to meet its commitment to deliver 300 million doses to the United States by the end of July.

The company expects to produce as many as 2.5 billion vaccine doses in 2021 and already has agreements to supply more than a billion to governments around the world.

A deal Pfizer signed with the White House last year had barred it from shipping doses made in the United States to other countries until after March 31, according to the source and a US&nbsp;official, who declined to be named because he was not authorized to speak to the press.

The US&nbsp;vaccination campaign has been among the quickest and most successful in the world, with nearly 240 million shots administered to more than 140 million residents so far, according to federal data updated on Thursday.

The White House on Monday said it would export up to 60 million doses of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine that have been made in a U.S. facility to countries in need.

Officials said on Monday the United States no longer anticipates needing the AstraZeneca vaccine to meet its goal of having enough shots for all Americans by summer.

The US&nbsp;government on Sunday said it will immediately ship raw materials for COVID-19 vaccines, medical equipment and protective gear to India, which has become the latest epicenter of the pandemic with its health system on the brink of collapse. It has not yet promised finished vaccine shipments to India.

Pfizer Inc's shipment of COVID-19 vaccine to Mexico this week includes doses made in its US plant, the first of what are expected to be ongoing exports of its shots from the United States, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Thursday.

Pfizer Inc's shipment of COVID-19 vaccine to Mexico this week includes doses made in its US plant, the first of what are expected to be ongoing exports of its shots from the United States, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Thursday. The vaccine shipment, produced at Pfizer's Kalamazoo, Michigan plant, marks the first time the drugmaker has delivered abroad from U.S facilities after a Trump-era restriction on dose exports expired at the end of March, the source said. The US government has been under mounting pressure in recent weeks to provide surplus vaccines to other nations desperately in need as it makes swift progress vaccinating its own residents. Many countries where the virus is still rampant are struggling to acquire vaccine supplies to help tame the pandemic. Wealthy governments have been trying to stock up on COVID-19 shots from Pfizer and Moderna Inc because of their extremely high efficacy and after safety concerns and production problems temporarily sidelined vaccines from AstraZeneca Plc and Johnson & Johnson. Pfizer has shipped more than 10 million doses to Mexico so far, becoming its largest supplier of COVID-19 vaccine. Pfizer and German partner BioNTech SE have been supplying other countries with doses from its main European production plant in Belgium. Mexico’s health ministry said it is receiving 2 million doses from Pfizer this week. It has received more than a million doses from Belgium since Wednesday and expects around another million this week. Reuters could not confirm if all the remaining Pfizer doses would come from Michigan. Pfizer will use extra capacity in its US facilities to deliver shots abroad while continuing to meet its commitment to supply the United States, the source said, adding that the drugmaker will also make shipments from Belgium. Pfizer has said it will be making up to 25 million shots each week in the United States by mid-year, which is more than it needs to meet its commitment to deliver 300 million doses to the United States by the end of July. The company expects to produce as many as 2.5 billion vaccine doses in 2021 and already has agreements to supply more than a billion to governments around the world. A deal Pfizer signed with the White House last year had barred it from shipping doses made in the United States to other countries until after March 31, according to the source and a US official, who declined to be named because he was not authorized to speak to the press. The US vaccination campaign has been among the quickest and most successful in the world, with nearly 240 million shots administered to more than 140 million residents so far, according to federal data updated on Thursday. The White House on Monday said it would export up to 60 million doses of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine that have been made in a U.S. facility to countries in need. Officials said on Monday the United States no longer anticipates needing the AstraZeneca vaccine to meet its goal of having enough shots for all Americans by summer. The US government on Sunday said it will immediately ship raw materials for COVID-19 vaccines, medical equipment and protective gear to India, which has become the latest epicenter of the pandemic with its health system on the brink of collapse. It has not yet promised finished vaccine shipments to India.

Pfizer begins to export US-made COVID-19 shots, first doses sent to Mexico

BioNTech said that it expected its COVID-19 vaccine, jointly developed with Pfizer, to be available to 12 to 15-year-olds in Europe from June. The German firm's CEO Ugur Sahin asserted that it was 'in the final stretches' of preparing its submission for European regulatory approval.

BioNTech eyes COVID-19 vaccine for 12-15-year-olds from June in Europe

Pfizer/BioNTech said on Friday they have asked European regulators to authorise their Covid-19 vaccine for 12- to 15-year-olds, a move seen as a crucial step towards achieving herd immunity.

The companies already filed a similar request with US authorities earlier this month. Their vaccine is currently only approved for use in people aged 16 and over.

In a joint statement, Pfizer and BioNTech said they had submitted a request with the Amsterdam-based European Medicines Agency (EMA) to expand the use of their jab to include "adolescents 12 to 15 years of age".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Pfizer CEO says oral drug to treat coronavirus could be ready by end of 2021">Pfizer CEO says oral drug to treat coronavirus could be ready by end of 2021</a>

Ugur Sahin, co-founder and CEO of Germany's BioNTech, on Thursday said the jab could be available for those age groups from June if EU approval is granted.

The move comes after phase 3 trial data showed that the vaccine provided "robust antibody responses" and was 100 percent effective in warding off the disease among those aged 12 to 15.

"The vaccine also was generally well tolerated," the statement added.

In an interview with Der Spiegel weekly, Sahin said he expected regulators' evaluation of the data to take four to six weeks.

If approved, the green light would apply to all 27 European Union member states.&nbsp;

Pfizer and BioNTech added that they also plan to seek authorisations "with other regulatory authorities worldwide".

No coronavirus vaccines are currently authorised for use on children.

While children and teenagers are less likely to develop severe Covid, they make up a large part of the population and inoculating them is considered key to ending the pandemic.

The prospect of getting older children jabbed before the next school year begins would also ease the strain on parents who are juggling the demands of homeschooling while keeping up with jobs.

"It's very important to enable children a return to their normal school lives and allow them to meet with family and friends," Sahin told Spiegel.

BioNTech and Pfizer are also racing to get their jab approved for younger kids, from six months upwards.

"In July, the first results for five- to 12-year-olds could be available, and those for younger children in September," Sahin said.

Ongoing trials so far are "very encouraging", Sahin said, suggesting that "children are very well protected by the vaccine".

The BioNTech/Pfizer shot is based on mRNA technology and was the first Covid-19 jab to be approved in the West late last year.

Pfizer/BioNTech said on Friday they have asked European regulators to authorise their Covid-19 vaccine for 12- to 15-year-olds, a move seen as a crucial step towards achieving herd immunity.

Pfizer/BioNTech said on Friday they have asked European regulators to authorise their Covid-19 vaccine for 12- to 15-year-olds, a move seen as a crucial step towards achieving herd immunity. The companies already filed a similar request with US authorities earlier this month. Their vaccine is currently only approved for use in people aged 16 and over. In a joint statement, Pfizer and BioNTech said they had submitted a request with the Amsterdam-based European Medicines Agency (EMA) to expand the use of their jab to include "adolescents 12 to 15 years of age". Also read: Pfizer CEO says oral drug to treat coronavirus could be ready by end of 2021 Ugur Sahin, co-founder and CEO of Germany's BioNTech, on Thursday said the jab could be available for those age groups from June if EU approval is granted. The move comes after phase 3 trial data showed that the vaccine provided "robust antibody responses" and was 100 percent effective in warding off the disease among those aged 12 to 15. "The vaccine also was generally well tolerated," the statement added. In an interview with Der Spiegel weekly, Sahin said he expected regulators' evaluation of the data to take four to six weeks. If approved, the green light would apply to all 27 European Union member states. Pfizer and BioNTech added that they also plan to seek authorisations "with other regulatory authorities worldwide". No coronavirus vaccines are currently authorised for use on children. While children and teenagers are less likely to develop severe Covid, they make up a large part of the population and inoculating them is considered key to ending the pandemic. The prospect of getting older children jabbed before the next school year begins would also ease the strain on parents who are juggling the demands of homeschooling while keeping up with jobs. "It's very important to enable children a return to their normal school lives and allow them to meet with family and friends," Sahin told Spiegel. BioNTech and Pfizer are also racing to get their jab approved for younger kids, from six months upwards. "In July, the first results for five- to 12-year-olds could be available, and those for younger children in September," Sahin said. Ongoing trials so far are "very encouraging", Sahin said, suggesting that "children are very well protected by the vaccine". The BioNTech/Pfizer shot is based on mRNA technology and was the first Covid-19 jab to be approved in the West late last year.

Pfizer/BioNTech seek Covid jab approval for 12-15-year-olds in EU

Pfizer Inc's shipment of COVID-19 vaccine to Mexico this week includes doses made in its US plant, the first of what are expected to be ongoing exports of its shots from the United States.

Pfizer to export COVID-19 shots from its US plant, first doses sent to Mexico

BioNTech said Thursday that it expected its Covid-19 vaccine, jointly developed with Pfizer, to be available to 12 to 15-year-olds in Europe from June.

The German firm's CEO Ugur Sahin told Der Spiegel weekly that it was "in the final stretches" of preparing its submission for European regulatory approval.&nbsp;

The evaluation of the trial data "takes four to six weeks on average", he added.

Vaccinating children is seen as a crucial next step toward herd immunity and ending the pandemic.

The prospect of getting older children inoculated before the next school year starts would also relieve the strain on parents who are juggling the demands of homeschooling while keeping up with jobs.

"It's very important to enable children a return to their normal school lives and allow them to meet with family and friends," Sahin told Spiegel.

BioNTech/Pfizer already applied for emergency US authorisation of their jab for 12 to 15-year-olds earlier this month.

Sahin expects to submit a similar request to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) next Wednesday, he told Spiegel.

The move comes after BioNTech and Pfizer in late March announced that phase 3 clinical trials of their vaccine for children aged 12-15 showed it was 100 per cent effective in warding off the disease.

Both companies are also racing to get the jab approved for younger children, from six months upwards.

"In July, the first results for five to 12-year-olds could be available, and those for younger children in September," he said.

Ongoing trials so far are "very encouraging", Sahin said, suggesting that "children are very well protected by the vaccine".

The BioNTech/Pfizer shot is based on novel mRNA technology and was the first Covid-19 jab to be approved in the West late last year.

BioNTech said Thursday that it expected its Covid-19 vaccine, jointly developed with Pfizer, to be available to 12 to 15-year-olds in Europe from June. The German firm's CEO Ugur Sahin told Der Spiegel weekly that it was "in the final stretches" of preparing its submission for European regulatory approval.

BioNTech said Thursday that it expected its Covid-19 vaccine, jointly developed with Pfizer, to be available to 12 to 15-year-olds in Europe from June. The German firm's CEO Ugur Sahin told Der Spiegel weekly that it was "in the final stretches" of preparing its submission for European regulatory approval. The evaluation of the trial data "takes four to six weeks on average", he added. Vaccinating children is seen as a crucial next step toward herd immunity and ending the pandemic. The prospect of getting older children inoculated before the next school year starts would also relieve the strain on parents who are juggling the demands of homeschooling while keeping up with jobs. "It's very important to enable children a return to their normal school lives and allow them to meet with family and friends," Sahin told Spiegel. BioNTech/Pfizer already applied for emergency US authorisation of their jab for 12 to 15-year-olds earlier this month. Sahin expects to submit a similar request to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) next Wednesday, he told Spiegel. The move comes after BioNTech and Pfizer in late March announced that phase 3 clinical trials of their vaccine for children aged 12-15 showed it was 100 per cent effective in warding off the disease. Both companies are also racing to get the jab approved for younger children, from six months upwards. "In July, the first results for five to 12-year-olds could be available, and those for younger children in September," he said. Ongoing trials so far are "very encouraging", Sahin said, suggesting that "children are very well protected by the vaccine". The BioNTech/Pfizer shot is based on novel mRNA technology and was the first Covid-19 jab to be approved in the West late last year.

BioNTech eyes Covid vaccine for 12-15 year olds from June in Europe

Britain will buy 60 million more doses of Pfizer/BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine, health minister Matt Hancock said, in a deal that more than doubles the country's supply of the shot ahead of a booster programme later this year.&nbsp;

Britain has now ordered a total of 100 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine, one of three COVID-19 shots being rolled out in the country.&nbsp;

Hancock said the shots had been secured to support a COVID-19 booster vaccination programme starting in the autumn, adding that the biggest risk to Britain's rollout so far was a new variant of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

"We`re working on our plans for booster shots," Hancock said.&nbsp;

"These further 60 million doses will be used, alongside others, as part of our booster programme from later this year, so we can protect the progress that we've all made."&nbsp;

Earlier on Wednesday, Public Health England said the details of any booster programme were still being worked out, and it would be designed primarily with new variants in mind.&nbsp;

Britain's health ministry said data from trials using different combinations of COVID-19 vaccines would help determine the design of the programme.&nbsp;

England's Deputy Chief Medic Jonathan Van-Tam said that by mid to late-summer, millions of people would have had two shots of either the AstraZeneca or Pfizer vaccines, and the question then would be whether to give a different vaccine as a booster.&nbsp;

A study starting in June should provide answers, he said.&nbsp;

"We'll get an idea then of which gives you the highest boost, which perhaps gives you the broadest boost against a range of coronavirus variants, and indeed what the timings look like," he told a press conference.&nbsp;

"That is another reason why the vaccines taskforce has invested in contracts with not just one or two manufacturers, but six or seven so that we have that optionality." &nbsp;

Britain has administered 47.5 million vaccine doses so far, nearly 34 million of which are first shots. &nbsp;

While the country is second only to Israel in terms of the proportion of the population who have received a first dose, which stands at around 50%, it has suffered 127,000 deaths from COVID-19, the fifth-highest total globally.&nbsp;

Britain, which has a population of 67 million, has deals for 517 million doses of eight different COVID-19 vaccines, some of which remain under development. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Britain will buy 60 million more doses of Pfizer/BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine, health minister Matt Hancock said, in a deal that more than doubles the country's supply of the shot ahead of a booster programme later this year.

Britain will buy 60 million more doses of Pfizer/BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine, health minister Matt Hancock said, in a deal that more than doubles the country's supply of the shot ahead of a booster programme later this year. Britain has now ordered a total of 100 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine, one of three COVID-19 shots being rolled out in the country. Hancock said the shots had been secured to support a COVID-19 booster vaccination programme starting in the autumn, adding that the biggest risk to Britain's rollout so far was a new variant of the coronavirus. "We`re working on our plans for booster shots," Hancock said. "These further 60 million doses will be used, alongside others, as part of our booster programme from later this year, so we can protect the progress that we've all made." Earlier on Wednesday, Public Health England said the details of any booster programme were still being worked out, and it would be designed primarily with new variants in mind. Britain's health ministry said data from trials using different combinations of COVID-19 vaccines would help determine the design of the programme. England's Deputy Chief Medic Jonathan Van-Tam said that by mid to late-summer, millions of people would have had two shots of either the AstraZeneca or Pfizer vaccines, and the question then would be whether to give a different vaccine as a booster. A study starting in June should provide answers, he said. "We'll get an idea then of which gives you the highest boost, which perhaps gives you the broadest boost against a range of coronavirus variants, and indeed what the timings look like," he told a press conference. "That is another reason why the vaccines taskforce has invested in contracts with not just one or two manufacturers, but six or seven so that we have that optionality." Britain has administered 47.5 million vaccine doses so far, nearly 34 million of which are first shots. While the country is second only to Israel in terms of the proportion of the population who have received a first dose, which stands at around 50%, it has suffered 127,000 deaths from COVID-19, the fifth-highest total globally. Britain, which has a population of 67 million, has deals for 517 million doses of eight different COVID-19 vaccines, some of which remain under development. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain orders 60,000,000 Pfizer COVID-19 shots for booster programme 

Pfizer CEO has said that an oral drug to treat novel <a href="wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> could be ready by the end of the year.&nbsp;

Pfizer-BioNTech's <a href="wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine </a>has been used in various European countries and the United States and has a very high efficacy as compared to its competitors.&nbsp;

Albert Bourla, Pfizer's CEO in an interview with CNBC on Tuesday said that the pharma company is developing antiviral treatments and is optimistic about their progress.

"If all goes well, and we implement the same speed that we are, and if regulators do the same, and they are, I hope that by the end of the year," the CEO said referring to the oral drug to treat COVID-19.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/pfizer-ceo-albert-bourla-raises-possibility-of-annual-revaccination-378408/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

The pharma giant is working on an oral as well as an injectable antiviral.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biontech-founder-confident-its-covid-vaccine-willl-work-against-strain-first-found-in-india-381076">BioNTech founder 'confident' its Covid vaccine willl work against strain first found in India</a>

This class of drugs, called protease inhibitors are widely used for HIV, hepatitis C treatment.&nbsp;

Early-stage trials of the oral drug started in March, and Bourla said that there is particular attention being paid to that treatment in which, unlike injectables, a hospital environment would not be required.

"You could get it at home, and that could be a game-changer," Boula said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ugur Sahin co-founder of BioNTech, Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine ally, on Wednesday expressed confidence that their vaccine would work well against the variant first detected in India.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pfizer CEO has said that an oral drug to treat novel coronavirus could be ready by the end of the year. Pfizer-BioNTech's coronavirus vaccine has been used in various European countries and the United States and has a very high efficacy as compared to its competitors.

Pfizer CEO has said that an oral drug to treat novel coronavirus could be ready by the end of the year. Pfizer-BioNTech's coronavirus vaccine has been used in various European countries and the United States and has a very high efficacy as compared to its competitors. Albert Bourla, Pfizer's CEO in an interview with CNBC on Tuesday said that the pharma company is developing antiviral treatments and is optimistic about their progress. "If all goes well, and we implement the same speed that we are, and if regulators do the same, and they are, I hope that by the end of the year," the CEO said referring to the oral drug to treat COVID-19. Watch | The pharma giant is working on an oral as well as an injectable antiviral. Also read | BioNTech founder 'confident' its Covid vaccine willl work against strain first found in India This class of drugs, called protease inhibitors are widely used for HIV, hepatitis C treatment. Early-stage trials of the oral drug started in March, and Bourla said that there is particular attention being paid to that treatment in which, unlike injectables, a hospital environment would not be required. "You could get it at home, and that could be a game-changer," Boula said. Meanwhile, Ugur Sahin co-founder of BioNTech, Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine ally, on Wednesday expressed confidence that their vaccine would work well against the variant first detected in India.

Pfizer CEO says oral drug to treat coronavirus could be ready by end of 2021

The co-founder of BionNTech&nbsp;on Wednesday said that testing of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>variant first found in India is underway and expressed confidence its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine </a>will work against the strain.&nbsp;

"We are still testing the Indian variant, but the Indian variant has mutations that we have already tested for and which our vaccine works against, so I am confident," Ugur Sahin, was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indians-asked-to-mask-up-at-home-380631/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The remarks came as the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday said that the variant found in India could be a factor in the huge rise of infections in the country and has been found in more than a dozen nations.&nbsp;

It said the B.1.617 strain, first detected in India had as of Tuesday been found in more than 1,200 sequences added in the GISAID open-access database "from at least 17 countries".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-has-failed-india-amid-record-surge-in-covid-19-cases-says-top-us-disease-expert-fauci-381019">World has failed India amid record surge in COVID-19 cases, says top US disease expert Fauci</a>

"Most sequences were uploaded from India, the United Kingdom, USA and Singapore," the WHO said.

The global health agency recently declared B.1.617 as a "variant of interest," but still did not include it in the list of "variant of concern".

The "variant of concern" means that the virus could be more transmissible, deadly or can kill the effects of the vaccine.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the new wave of COVID-19 continues to bring a massive surge in infections and death toll in India as the fatality toll went pass 200,000 on Wednesday.&nbsp;

India for the last many days is seeing the maximum number of daily cases than any other nation with hospitals reaching their capacity and patients struggling to get emergency care, oxygen and essential drugs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The co-founder of BionNTech on Wednesday said that testing of the coronavirus variant first found in India is underway and expressed confidence its vaccine will work against the strain.

The co-founder of BionNTech on Wednesday said that testing of the coronavirus variant first found in India is underway and expressed confidence its vaccine will work against the strain. "We are still testing the Indian variant, but the Indian variant has mutations that we have already tested for and which our vaccine works against, so I am confident," Ugur Sahin, was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. Watch | The remarks came as the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday said that the variant found in India could be a factor in the huge rise of infections in the country and has been found in more than a dozen nations. It said the B.1.617 strain, first detected in India had as of Tuesday been found in more than 1,200 sequences added in the GISAID open-access database "from at least 17 countries". Also read | World has failed India amid record surge in COVID-19 cases, says top US disease expert Fauci "Most sequences were uploaded from India, the United Kingdom, USA and Singapore," the WHO said. The global health agency recently declared B.1.617 as a "variant of interest," but still did not include it in the list of "variant of concern". The "variant of concern" means that the virus could be more transmissible, deadly or can kill the effects of the vaccine. Meanwhile, the new wave of COVID-19 continues to bring a massive surge in infections and death toll in India as the fatality toll went pass 200,000 on Wednesday. India for the last many days is seeing the maximum number of daily cases than any other nation with hospitals reaching their capacity and patients struggling to get emergency care, oxygen and essential drugs. (With inputs from agencies)

BioNTech founder 'confident' its Covid vaccine willl work against strain first found in India

British lawmakers&nbsp;called on the government to publish all communications with pharmaceutical companies to understand if private lobbying influenced its opposition to a waiver of intellectual property rules for COVID-19 vaccines.

The United States and a handful of other big countries, including the United Kingdom, have blocked negotiations at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) involving a proposal spearheaded by India and South Africa that now has the support of 100 WTO members.

The proposal would temporarily waive the intellectual property (IP) rights of pharmaceutical companies to allow developing countries to produce vaccines.

The waiver is opposed by the US&nbsp;Chamber of Commerce and big pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson &amp; Johnson.

A cross-party group of UK lawmakers has signed a statement calling for Prime Minister Boris Johnson, ministers, and senior civil servants to publish all email, text, and WhatsApp messages exchanged with pharmaceutical companies and their lobbyists.

Patient advocacy and vaccine equity organisations have also signed the statement, including Global Justice Now, Just Treatment, StopAIDS, Frontline AIDS, Universities Allied for Essential Medicines UK, Students for Global Health, and Nurses United UK.

"The UK's opposition to an intellectual property waiver on COVID-19 vaccines is utterly indefensible," said Heidi Chow, senior policy and campaigns manager at Global Justice Now, which organised the joint statement.

A spokesperson for the UK government said it prioritised transparency but stakeholders had a right to expect a reasonable degree of confidentiality in their communications.

The UK was one of the biggest donors to Covax to ensure global access to vaccines and continued to encourage manufacturers to provide their vaccines on a not-for-profit, transparent basis.

"We are committed to exploring ways in which we can improve equitable access further and believe this should be done through the existing Intellectual Property framework," added the spokesperson.

Last week US&nbsp;lawmakers and nonprofit groups heaped pressure on the Biden administration to back the patent waiver ahead of the next formal WTO meeting on the issue on May 5.

(With inputs from agencies)

British lawmakers called on the government to publish all communications with pharmaceutical companies to understand if private lobbying influenced its opposition to a waiver of intellectual property rules for COVID-19 vaccines.

British lawmakers called on the government to publish all communications with pharmaceutical companies to understand if private lobbying influenced its opposition to a waiver of intellectual property rules for COVID-19 vaccines. The United States and a handful of other big countries, including the United Kingdom, have blocked negotiations at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) involving a proposal spearheaded by India and South Africa that now has the support of 100 WTO members. The proposal would temporarily waive the intellectual property (IP) rights of pharmaceutical companies to allow developing countries to produce vaccines. The waiver is opposed by the US Chamber of Commerce and big pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. A cross-party group of UK lawmakers has signed a statement calling for Prime Minister Boris Johnson, ministers, and senior civil servants to publish all email, text, and WhatsApp messages exchanged with pharmaceutical companies and their lobbyists. Patient advocacy and vaccine equity organisations have also signed the statement, including Global Justice Now, Just Treatment, StopAIDS, Frontline AIDS, Universities Allied for Essential Medicines UK, Students for Global Health, and Nurses United UK. "The UK's opposition to an intellectual property waiver on COVID-19 vaccines is utterly indefensible," said Heidi Chow, senior policy and campaigns manager at Global Justice Now, which organised the joint statement. A spokesperson for the UK government said it prioritised transparency but stakeholders had a right to expect a reasonable degree of confidentiality in their communications. The UK was one of the biggest donors to Covax to ensure global access to vaccines and continued to encourage manufacturers to provide their vaccines on a not-for-profit, transparent basis. "We are committed to exploring ways in which we can improve equitable access further and believe this should be done through the existing Intellectual Property framework," added the spokesperson. Last week US lawmakers and nonprofit groups heaped pressure on the Biden administration to back the patent waiver ahead of the next formal WTO meeting on the issue on May 5. (With inputs from agencies)

British lawmakers ask government to publish big pharma lobbying messages

Israel's Health Ministry said on Sunday it is examining a small number of cases of heart inflammation in people, who had received Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine, though it has not yet drawn any conclusions.&nbsp;

Pfizer said it has not observed a higher rate of the condition than would normally be expected in the general population.&nbsp;

Israel's pandemic response coordinator, Nachman Ash, said that a preliminary study showed "tens of incidents" of myocarditis occurring among more than 5 million vaccinated people, primarily after the second dose. &nbsp;

Ash said it was unclear whether this was unusually high and whether it was connected to the vaccine.&nbsp;

Most of the cases were reported among people up to age 30.&nbsp;

"The Health Ministry is currently examining whether there is an excess in morbidity (disease rate) and whether it can be attributed to the vaccines," Ash said.&nbsp;

Ash, who spoke about the issue in a radio interview and during a news conference, referred to it as a "question mark", and emphasised that the Health Ministry has yet to draw any conclusions.&nbsp;

Determining a link, he said, would be difficult because myocarditis, a condition that often goes away without complications, can be caused by a variety of viruses and a similar number of cases were reported in previous years.&nbsp;

Pfizer, asked by Reuters about the review, said it is in regular contact with Israel’s Health Ministry to review data on its vaccine.&nbsp;

The company said it "is aware of the Israeli observations of myocarditis that occurred predominantly in a population of young men who received the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine".&nbsp;

"Adverse events are regularly and thoroughly reviewed and we have not observed a higher rate of myocarditis than what would be expected in the general population. A causal link to the vaccine has not been established," the company said.&nbsp;

"There is no evidence at this time to conclude that myocarditis is a risk associated with the use of Pfizer/BNT COVID-19 vaccine."&nbsp;

Israel has been a world leader in its vaccination rollout, with close to 60% of its 9.3 million population having received the Pfizer vaccine. Its nationwide database has already showed the vaccine to be highly effective in preventing the symptoms and severe illness associated with COVID-19.&nbsp;

Since January, shortly after the vaccine campaign began, daily infections dropped from a peak of more than 10,000 to just 129 before the weekend.&nbsp;

Nadav Davidovitch, director of the school of public health at Israel's Ben Gurion University, said that even if a correlation between the myocarditis cases and the vaccine were established, it did not appear to be serious enough to stop administering the vaccine.&nbsp;

"It's a situation that should be looked into, and we need to wait for a final report, but in an interim analysis it seems the risk of getting sick from COVID-19 is much higher than from the vaccine's adverse events, and the risk of peri/myo-carditis following the vaccine is low and temporary," he said.&nbsp;

Israel's Health Ministry said on Sunday it is examining a small number of cases of heart inflammation in people, who had received Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine, though it has not yet drawn any conclusions.

Israel's Health Ministry said on Sunday it is examining a small number of cases of heart inflammation in people, who had received Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine, though it has not yet drawn any conclusions. Pfizer said it has not observed a higher rate of the condition than would normally be expected in the general population. Israel's pandemic response coordinator, Nachman Ash, said that a preliminary study showed "tens of incidents" of myocarditis occurring among more than 5 million vaccinated people, primarily after the second dose. Ash said it was unclear whether this was unusually high and whether it was connected to the vaccine. Most of the cases were reported among people up to age 30. "The Health Ministry is currently examining whether there is an excess in morbidity (disease rate) and whether it can be attributed to the vaccines," Ash said. Ash, who spoke about the issue in a radio interview and during a news conference, referred to it as a "question mark", and emphasised that the Health Ministry has yet to draw any conclusions. Determining a link, he said, would be difficult because myocarditis, a condition that often goes away without complications, can be caused by a variety of viruses and a similar number of cases were reported in previous years. Pfizer, asked by Reuters about the review, said it is in regular contact with Israel’s Health Ministry to review data on its vaccine. The company said it "is aware of the Israeli observations of myocarditis that occurred predominantly in a population of young men who received the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine". "Adverse events are regularly and thoroughly reviewed and we have not observed a higher rate of myocarditis than what would be expected in the general population. A causal link to the vaccine has not been established," the company said. "There is no evidence at this time to conclude that myocarditis is a risk associated with the use of Pfizer/BNT COVID-19 vaccine." Israel has been a world leader in its vaccination rollout, with close to 60% of its 9.3 million population having received the Pfizer vaccine. Its nationwide database has already showed the vaccine to be highly effective in preventing the symptoms and severe illness associated with COVID-19. Since January, shortly after the vaccine campaign began, daily infections dropped from a peak of more than 10,000 to just 129 before the weekend. Nadav Davidovitch, director of the school of public health at Israel's Ben Gurion University, said that even if a correlation between the myocarditis cases and the vaccine were established, it did not appear to be serious enough to stop administering the vaccine. "It's a situation that should be looked into, and we need to wait for a final report, but in an interim analysis it seems the risk of getting sick from COVID-19 is much higher than from the vaccine's adverse events, and the risk of peri/myo-carditis following the vaccine is low and temporary," he said.

Israel examining heart inflammation cases in people, who received Pfizer COVID-19 shot 

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