<div style="border:0px; margin:0px; padding:0px">
<div style="border:0px; margin:0px; padding:0px">
A whole host of countries have come in India's support as it battles the Covid crisis. More than 300,000 cases have been reported on a daily basis in the country. Indian missions globally are doing the heavy lifting while many private Indian players are also pitching in. India's allies like the the US, UAE, UK, France and others have come in full support of New Delhi.

Here is the list of all the countries that are extending assistance to India. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Singapore 
Four Oxygen containers brought by Indian Air Force on Saturday. 7,511 O2 concentrators, 516 BiPAP machines to be sent by the country, of which 500 BiPAPs, 250 oxygen concentrators have already been brought. Singapore's embassy in a tweet said, "we will fight this together".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Dear friends in India—we will fight this together! We are working closely with <a href="https://twitter.com/Temasek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Temasek</a> and other partners to send 7,511 O2 concentrator, 516 BiPAP machines, &amp; other supplies ASAP. 🇸🇬🤝🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SingaporeWithIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SingaporeWithIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/9ymUBJp0A2">https://t.co/9ymUBJp0A2</a>
— Singapore in India (@SGinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGinIndia/status/1386558201886244867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

United Arab Emirates&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Indian Air Force flew in seven empty cryogenic oxygen containers from the West Asian country. UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan spoke to Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday, expressing his solidarity with India. Jaishankar tweeted, "As always, deeply value good wishes and international cooperation."

Well-known buildings in UAE like the Burj Khalifa, ADNOC &nbsp;were lit up in colours of the Indian flag with the message #staystrongIndia.&nbsp;

Britain 
UK announced it will send 600 pieces, which include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices, to India. The first batch will reach on Tuesday morning. Nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, which can extract oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators will reach India this week. UK prime minister, foreign and health secretaries, and ambassador made public comments in solidarity with the people of India. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said,“We stand side by side with India as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against Covid-19."

United States

The US has agreed to provide the specific raw materials for Indian Covishield vaccine manufacturers. The development comes after the Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and American National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke to each other.

US will be supplying therapeutics, rapid diagnostic test kits, ventilators, PPE kits, oxygen generators, and deploy an expert team of health advisors from CDC and USAID.

Already, more than 300 O2 concentrators have been brought by Air India from New York. Tweets by the US president, vice president, defence secretary, &nbsp;surgeon general, deputy secretary of the state showed support for India.

President Joe Biden tweeted, "Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need. <a href="https://t.co/SzWRj0eP3y">https://t.co/SzWRj0eP3y</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1386401947729633280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

France 
The French presidency has said that the country will provide India "significant" oxygen support and is working on the delivery of high-performance oxygen generator units as well as some other equipment.&nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron was the first world leader to send a message of public solidarity. He said, "I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support."

European Union

European Union, over the weekend, activated its "civil protection mechanism" to help India. Janez Lenarčič, European Commissioner for Crisis Management, in a tweet said, "EU will do its utmost to mobilize assistance to support people of India". 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Upon request for assistance by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>, we have activated the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EU</a> Civil Protection Mechanism. 
 
The 🇪🇺 will do its utmost to mobilise assistance to support people of 🇮🇳. 
 
Our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ERCC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ERCC</a> is already coordinating EU MS that are ready to provide urgently needed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/oxygen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#oxygen</a> &amp; medicine rapidly.
— Janez Lenarčič (@JanezLenarcic) <a href="https://twitter.com/JanezLenarcic/status/1386270858688270336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen seconded him saying, "EU is pooling resources".&nbsp;The matter came up during a discussion between Margrethe Vestager Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and Jaishankar.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Alarmed by the epidemiological situation in India. We are ready to support. 
 
The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. 
 
We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people! <a href="https://t.co/Pv8ezFPdS3">https://t.co/Pv8ezFPdS3</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1386292464277852162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Denmark 
The Nordic country is extending support to India. Denmark's envoy to Delhi Freddy Svane told&nbsp;WION,"We are working closely with MEA [Ministry of External Affairs] to assist India with whatever is required. That’s what friends are about".

Germany&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday announced that Germany&nbsp;is preparing urgent support for India. German armed forces will give India oxygen generators. Smaller units from the German private sector will also be sent. Cooperation between German top medical institute Robert Koch Institute (RKI) with Indian institutions to support&nbsp; sequencing of viral loads is on the anvil. Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported.

Saudi Arabia 
80 metric tonnes of oxygen have been procured from the country in cooperation with Adani and Linde and the Indian high commission.

China 
The country has offered to provide assistance. A Chinese embassy spokesperson in Delhi told WION that "talks and discussions are ongoing" with the Indian side.

Hong Kong 
800 oxygen concentrators were airlifted for SpiceHealth, a healthcare company founded by the promoters of SpiceJet.

Pakistan 
Has offered to provide relief support to India including ventilators, Bi PAP, digital X-ray machines, PPEs and related items. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Foreign Minister SM Qureshi extended support to India.&nbsp;The country's well-known NGO Edhi Foundation has written to PM Modi and has offered to send ambulances. Spontaneous support by Pakistani society, especially on social media, was seen with a lot of positive trends.

Iran 
Iran Health Minister Dr Saeed Namaki wrote to the Indian Health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, saying, "The government and people of Iran are ready to spare no technical assistance, expertise and equipment in these difficult days and at the height of the plight of the dear citizens of India with the COVID-19 epidemic."

Japan 
Under its grant assistance, oxygen generators will be provided with a procurement process still underway. Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga for providing assistance to India for combating the pandemic during a call on Monday.

Russia 
Support has been offered by Russia. It is cosidering sending the drug Remdesivir to India for Covid patients.Australia 
Australian cabinet is likely to announce support for India.&nbsp;Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in a tweet said, "Australia stands with our friends in India as it manages a difficult second COVID-19 wave. We know how strong and resilient the Indian nation is @narendramodi and I will keep working in partnership on this global challenge."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Australia stands with our friends in India as it manages a difficult second COVID-19 wave. We know how strong and resilient the Indian nation is. <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and I will keep working in partnership on this global challenge.
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1385738966595297280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Canada 
The country has offered to send assistance.&nbsp;Marc Garneau, Canada's foreign minister, tweeted, "Our thoughts are with the people of India as they face a devastating new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada stands ready to assist and has reached out to Indian authorities to determine how Canada can best support India in its time of need."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Our thoughts are with the people of India as they face a devastating new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada stands ready to assist and has reached out to Indian authorities to determine how Canada can best support India in its time of need.
— Marc Garneau (@MarcGarneau) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarcGarneau/status/1386490684950126593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Afghanistan 
Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar and envoy to India Farid Mamundzay all tweeted and showed solidarity for India. The Afghan president tweeted, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people &amp; government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of COVID. On behalf of the Afghan people &amp; government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones &amp; wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Our hearts go out to the Indian people &amp; government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of COVID. On behalf of the Afghan people &amp; government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones &amp; wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1386292558024691715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

 
Bhutan 
Bhutan's Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji tweeted, "Our deepest prayers and complete solidarity to the government and people of India in this most difficult period of the pandemic. Praying and hoping for quick relief and recovery."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Our deepest prayers and complete solidarity to the government and people of India in this most difficult period of the pandemic. Praying and hoping for quick relief and recovery. <a href="https://twitter.com/GovtOfIndia_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovtOfIndia_</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RuchiraKamboj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RuchiraKamboj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/govind?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@govind</a>
— ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/FMBhutan/status/1385817210208153602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

 
There was show of support from several other countries such as&nbsp;Mexico and Slovenia.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;
</div>
</div>

&nbsp;

A whole host of countries have come in India's support as it battles the Covid crisis. More than 300,000 cases have been reported on a daily basis in the country.

A whole host of countries have come in India's support as it battles the Covid crisis. More than 300,000 cases have been reported on a daily basis in the country. Indian missions globally are doing the heavy lifting while many private Indian players are also pitching in. India's allies like the the US, UAE, UK, France and others have come in full support of New Delhi. Here is the list of all the countries that are extending assistance to India. Singapore Four Oxygen containers brought by Indian Air Force on Saturday. 7,511 O2 concentrators, 516 BiPAP machines to be sent by the country, of which 500 BiPAPs, 250 oxygen concentrators have already been brought. Singapore's embassy in a tweet said, "we will fight this together". Dear friends in India—we will fight this together! We are working closely with @Temasek and other partners to send 7,511 O2 concentrator, 516 BiPAP machines, & other supplies ASAP. 🇸🇬🤝🇮🇳 #IndiaFightsCorona #SingaporeWithIndia https://t.co/9ymUBJp0A2 — Singapore in India (@SGinIndia) April 26, 2021 × United Arab Emirates Indian Air Force flew in seven empty cryogenic oxygen containers from the West Asian country. UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan spoke to Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday, expressing his solidarity with India. Jaishankar tweeted, "As always, deeply value good wishes and international cooperation." Well-known buildings in UAE like the Burj Khalifa, ADNOC were lit up in colours of the Indian flag with the message #staystrongIndia. Britain UK announced it will send 600 pieces, which include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices, to India. The first batch will reach on Tuesday morning. Nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, which can extract oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators will reach India this week. UK prime minister, foreign and health secretaries, and ambassador made public comments in solidarity with the people of India. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said,“We stand side by side with India as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against Covid-19." United States The US has agreed to provide the specific raw materials for Indian Covishield vaccine manufacturers. The development comes after the Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and American National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke to each other. US will be supplying therapeutics, rapid diagnostic test kits, ventilators, PPE kits, oxygen generators, and deploy an expert team of health advisors from CDC and USAID. Already, more than 300 O2 concentrators have been brought by Air India from New York. Tweets by the US president, vice president, defence secretary, surgeon general, deputy secretary of the state showed support for India. President Joe Biden tweeted, "Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need." Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need. https://t.co/SzWRj0eP3y — President Biden (@POTUS) April 25, 2021 × France The French presidency has said that the country will provide India "significant" oxygen support and is working on the delivery of high-performance oxygen generator units as well as some other equipment. President Emmanuel Macron was the first world leader to send a message of public solidarity. He said, "I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support." European Union European Union, over the weekend, activated its "civil protection mechanism" to help India. Janez Lenarčič, European Commissioner for Crisis Management, in a tweet said, "EU will do its utmost to mobilize assistance to support people of India". Upon request for assistance by #India, we have activated the #EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The 🇪🇺 will do its utmost to mobilise assistance to support people of 🇮🇳. Our #ERCC is already coordinating EU MS that are ready to provide urgently needed #oxygen & medicine rapidly. — Janez Lenarčič (@JanezLenarcic) April 25, 2021 × President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen seconded him saying, "EU is pooling resources". The matter came up during a discussion between Margrethe Vestager Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and Jaishankar. Alarmed by the epidemiological situation in India. We are ready to support. The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people! https://t.co/Pv8ezFPdS3 — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) April 25, 2021 × Denmark The Nordic country is extending support to India. Denmark's envoy to Delhi Freddy Svane told WION,"We are working closely with MEA [Ministry of External Affairs] to assist India with whatever is required. That’s what friends are about". Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday announced that Germany is preparing urgent support for India. German armed forces will give India oxygen generators. Smaller units from the German private sector will also be sent. Cooperation between German top medical institute Robert Koch Institute (RKI) with Indian institutions to support sequencing of viral loads is on the anvil. Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported. Saudi Arabia 80 metric tonnes of oxygen have been procured from the country in cooperation with Adani and Linde and the Indian high commission. China The country has offered to provide assistance. A Chinese embassy spokesperson in Delhi told WION that "talks and discussions are ongoing" with the Indian side. Hong Kong 800 oxygen concentrators were airlifted for SpiceHealth, a healthcare company founded by the promoters of SpiceJet. Pakistan Has offered to provide relief support to India including ventilators, Bi PAP, digital X-ray machines, PPEs and related items. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Foreign Minister SM Qureshi extended support to India. The country's well-known NGO Edhi Foundation has written to PM Modi and has offered to send ambulances. Spontaneous support by Pakistani society, especially on social media, was seen with a lot of positive trends. Iran Iran Health Minister Dr Saeed Namaki wrote to the Indian Health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, saying, "The government and people of Iran are ready to spare no technical assistance, expertise and equipment in these difficult days and at the height of the plight of the dear citizens of India with the COVID-19 epidemic." Japan Under its grant assistance, oxygen generators will be provided with a procurement process still underway. Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga for providing assistance to India for combating the pandemic during a call on Monday. Russia Support has been offered by Russia. It is cosidering sending the drug Remdesivir to India for Covid patients.Australia Australian cabinet is likely to announce support for India. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in a tweet said, "Australia stands with our friends in India as it manages a difficult second COVID-19 wave. We know how strong and resilient the Indian nation is @narendramodi and I will keep working in partnership on this global challenge." Australia stands with our friends in India as it manages a difficult second COVID-19 wave. We know how strong and resilient the Indian nation is. @narendramodi and I will keep working in partnership on this global challenge. — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) April 23, 2021 × Canada The country has offered to send assistance. Marc Garneau, Canada's foreign minister, tweeted, "Our thoughts are with the people of India as they face a devastating new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada stands ready to assist and has reached out to Indian authorities to determine how Canada can best support India in its time of need." Our thoughts are with the people of India as they face a devastating new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada stands ready to assist and has reached out to Indian authorities to determine how Canada can best support India in its time of need. — Marc Garneau (@MarcGarneau) April 26, 2021 × Afghanistan Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar and envoy to India Farid Mamundzay all tweeted and showed solidarity for India. The Afghan president tweeted, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people & government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of COVID. On behalf of the Afghan people & government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones & wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus." Our hearts go out to the Indian people & government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of COVID. On behalf of the Afghan people & government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones & wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) April 25, 2021 × Bhutan Bhutan's Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji tweeted, "Our deepest prayers and complete solidarity to the government and people of India in this most difficult period of the pandemic. Praying and hoping for quick relief and recovery." Our deepest prayers and complete solidarity to the government and people of India in this most difficult period of the pandemic. Praying and hoping for quick relief and recovery. @GovtOfIndia_ @DrSJaishankar @RuchiraKamboj @govind — ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) April 24, 2021 × There was show of support from several other countries such as Mexico and Slovenia.

International community extends support to India amid Covid crisis

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

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

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

Covid vaccine doses cross one billion mark worldwide

Getting registered on the CoWIN web portal and taking an appointment to get a COVID-19 vaccine jab would be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years as walk-ins will not be allowed initially, official sources said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Those above 45 years can still avail the facility of on-site registration to get vaccinated, they said.&nbsp;

As India witnesses a sudden surge in coronavirus cases, it has decided to allow everyone above 18 years of age to get vaccinated from May 1.&nbsp;

"An increased demand is expected once the vaccination is opened for all. For the purpose of crowd control, registering on CoWIN portal and making an appointment to get a vaccine will be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years. Walks-in will not be allowed in the beginning so that there is no chaos," an official said.&nbsp;

Registration for vaccination for all those aged above 18 will begin on the CoWIN platform and Aarogya Setu App from April 28. The inoculation process and documents to be provided to get the jab remains the same.&nbsp;

From May 1, the present system of private COVID-19 vaccination centres receiving doses from the government and charging up to Rs 250 per dose from people will cease to exist and private hospitals will procure directly from vaccine manufacturers.&nbsp;

According to the Liberalised Pricing and Accelerated National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy, COVID-19 vaccination will continue to be free for eligible population groups comprising healthcare workers, frontline workers and population above 45 years of age in government vaccination centres that receive doses from the Centre.&nbsp;

Vaccine manufacturers would make an advance declaration of the price for 50 per cent supply that would be available to state governments in the open market before May 1. Based on this price, states, private hospitals, industrial establishments may procure vaccine doses from manufacturers.&nbsp;

Private hospitals would have to procure their supplies of COVID-19 vaccine exclusively from the 50 per cent supply earmarked, other than the Government of India channel.&nbsp;

"While the Centre has liberalised the vaccination policy, it does not mean that vaccines will be sold in pharmacists or chemist shops in the open market," Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan had clarified on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The price charged for vaccination by private hospitals would be monitored, he said, adding, "The present dispensation where private Covid vaccination centres receive doses from the government and can charge up to Rs 250 per dose will cease to exist."&nbsp;

Vaccine manufacturers would supply 50 per cent of their monthly Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) released doses to the Centre and would be free to supply the rest to state governments.&nbsp;

All immunisations will be part of the National Vaccination Programme, will be captured on CoWIN platform along with stocks and price per vaccination applicable in all vaccination centres, will comply with adverse event following immunization management and reporting, and all other prescribed norms.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Getting registered on the CoWIN web portal and taking an appointment to get a COVID-19 vaccine jab would be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years as walk-ins will not be allowed initially, official sources said on Sunday.

Getting registered on the CoWIN web portal and taking an appointment to get a COVID-19 vaccine jab would be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years as walk-ins will not be allowed initially, official sources said on Sunday. Those above 45 years can still avail the facility of on-site registration to get vaccinated, they said. As India witnesses a sudden surge in coronavirus cases, it has decided to allow everyone above 18 years of age to get vaccinated from May 1. "An increased demand is expected once the vaccination is opened for all. For the purpose of crowd control, registering on CoWIN portal and making an appointment to get a vaccine will be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years. Walks-in will not be allowed in the beginning so that there is no chaos," an official said. Registration for vaccination for all those aged above 18 will begin on the CoWIN platform and Aarogya Setu App from April 28. The inoculation process and documents to be provided to get the jab remains the same. From May 1, the present system of private COVID-19 vaccination centres receiving doses from the government and charging up to Rs 250 per dose from people will cease to exist and private hospitals will procure directly from vaccine manufacturers. According to the Liberalised Pricing and Accelerated National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy, COVID-19 vaccination will continue to be free for eligible population groups comprising healthcare workers, frontline workers and population above 45 years of age in government vaccination centres that receive doses from the Centre. Vaccine manufacturers would make an advance declaration of the price for 50 per cent supply that would be available to state governments in the open market before May 1. Based on this price, states, private hospitals, industrial establishments may procure vaccine doses from manufacturers. Private hospitals would have to procure their supplies of COVID-19 vaccine exclusively from the 50 per cent supply earmarked, other than the Government of India channel. "While the Centre has liberalised the vaccination policy, it does not mean that vaccines will be sold in pharmacists or chemist shops in the open market," Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan had clarified on Wednesday. The price charged for vaccination by private hospitals would be monitored, he said, adding, "The present dispensation where private Covid vaccination centres receive doses from the government and can charge up to Rs 250 per dose will cease to exist." Vaccine manufacturers would supply 50 per cent of their monthly Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) released doses to the Centre and would be free to supply the rest to state governments. All immunisations will be part of the National Vaccination Programme, will be captured on CoWIN platform along with stocks and price per vaccination applicable in all vaccination centres, will comply with adverse event following immunization management and reporting, and all other prescribed norms. (With inputs from agencies)

CoWIN registration must for those between 18 and 45 years to get vaccine shot 

The Syrian government received the first batch of Chinese COVID-19 vaccines on Saturday, a gift of 150,000 jabs to Damascus, Syrian and Chinese officials said.&nbsp;

The Chinese vaccines arrived in Damascus airport where they were received by Syria's Health Minister Hassan Ghabbash and China's ambassador to Damascus.&nbsp;

The Chinese batch comes a few days after more than 200,000 jabs were delivered to Syria through the United Nations-led platform, which provides vaccines to the needy. &nbsp;

The new jabs are likely to speed up the inoculation campaign in the war-torn country where a battered health sector has been overwhelmed by the pandemic, and where infections have been on the rise. &nbsp;

Syria was the last country in the Middle East and North Africa to receive the UN-supported jabs, the first batch arriving this week. &nbsp;

UN officials say the quantities are limited and have appealed for more funding and vaccines to help stem the spread of the virus in the country reeling from years of conflict and growing economic hardships.&nbsp;

The UN-provided AstraZeneca vaccines arrived on Wednesday and Thursday. They were part of the UN-led campaign aiming to vaccinate 20% of the country's population before the end of the year. Frontline workers, the elderly and those with chronic diseases were priority. &nbsp;

The Syrian government has registered nearly 22,000 infection cases, including over 1,500 deaths in areas under its control. &nbsp;

Ghabbash said China has been supporting Syria in the face of the pandemic, first with medical and technical expertise and now, with the Chinese vaccine Sinopharm. &nbsp;

"We appreciate this support that will enable the health ministry to fight the spread of this pandemic and to limit its health, social and economic impacts specially in those difficult times that Syria is going through," Ghabbash said at a press conference. &nbsp;

It is not clear how the Chinese vaccines will be distributed. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Syrian government received the first batch of Chinese COVID-19 vaccines on Saturday, a gift of 150,000 jabs to Damascus, Syrian and Chinese officials said. The Chinese vaccines arrived in Damascus airport where they were received by Syria's Health Minister Hassan Ghabbash and China's ambassador to Damascus.

The Syrian government received the first batch of Chinese COVID-19 vaccines on Saturday, a gift of 150,000 jabs to Damascus, Syrian and Chinese officials said. The Chinese vaccines arrived in Damascus airport where they were received by Syria's Health Minister Hassan Ghabbash and China's ambassador to Damascus. The Chinese batch comes a few days after more than 200,000 jabs were delivered to Syria through the United Nations-led platform, which provides vaccines to the needy. The new jabs are likely to speed up the inoculation campaign in the war-torn country where a battered health sector has been overwhelmed by the pandemic, and where infections have been on the rise. Syria was the last country in the Middle East and North Africa to receive the UN-supported jabs, the first batch arriving this week. UN officials say the quantities are limited and have appealed for more funding and vaccines to help stem the spread of the virus in the country reeling from years of conflict and growing economic hardships. The UN-provided AstraZeneca vaccines arrived on Wednesday and Thursday. They were part of the UN-led campaign aiming to vaccinate 20% of the country's population before the end of the year. Frontline workers, the elderly and those with chronic diseases were priority. The Syrian government has registered nearly 22,000 infection cases, including over 1,500 deaths in areas under its control. Ghabbash said China has been supporting Syria in the face of the pandemic, first with medical and technical expertise and now, with the Chinese vaccine Sinopharm. "We appreciate this support that will enable the health ministry to fight the spread of this pandemic and to limit its health, social and economic impacts specially in those difficult times that Syria is going through," Ghabbash said at a press conference. It is not clear how the Chinese vaccines will be distributed. (With inputs from agencies)

Syria gets donation of 150,000 COVID-19 shots from China

Norwegian health ministry said on Thursday that the country will be sending 216,000 Covid vaccine doses to Sweden and Iceland at their request. Norway has suspended the use of AstraZeneca vaccine until further notice.&nbsp;

"I'm happy that the vaccines we have in stock can be put to use even if the AstraZeneca vaccine has been paused in Norway," Health Minister Bent Hoie said in a statement.

The doses are currently stored in Norwegian fridges and have to be used before their expiry dates in June and July.

Sweden will receive 200,000 shots and Iceland 16,000 under the expectation they will return the favour at some point.

"If we do resume the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, we will get the doses back as soon as we ask," Hoie said. 
Like neighbouring Denmark, Norway suspended the use of the AstraZeneca jab on March 11 in order to examine rare but potentially severe side effects, including blood clots.

Five cases of severe thrombosis, including three fatal, were recorded in Norway. These individuals had received AstraZeneca jabs. The deaths were registered among relatively young people who were otherwise in good condition. One other person died of a brain haemorrhage.

On April 15, Norway's government ignored a recommendation from the Institute of Public Health to drop the AstraZeneca jab for good, saying it wanted more time to decide.

Oslo has therefore set up a committee of Norwegian and international experts tasked with studying all of the risks linked to the AstraZeneca and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines, which is also suspected of causing blood clots. Both are both based on adenovirus vector technology.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Norwegian health ministry said on Thursday that the country will be sending 216,000 Covid vaccine doses to Sweden and Iceland at their request. Norway has suspended the use of AstraZeneca vaccine until further notice.

Norwegian health ministry said on Thursday that the country will be sending 216,000 Covid vaccine doses to Sweden and Iceland at their request. Norway has suspended the use of AstraZeneca vaccine until further notice. "I'm happy that the vaccines we have in stock can be put to use even if the AstraZeneca vaccine has been paused in Norway," Health Minister Bent Hoie said in a statement. The doses are currently stored in Norwegian fridges and have to be used before their expiry dates in June and July. Sweden will receive 200,000 shots and Iceland 16,000 under the expectation they will return the favour at some point. "If we do resume the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, we will get the doses back as soon as we ask," Hoie said. Like neighbouring Denmark, Norway suspended the use of the AstraZeneca jab on March 11 in order to examine rare but potentially severe side effects, including blood clots. Five cases of severe thrombosis, including three fatal, were recorded in Norway. These individuals had received AstraZeneca jabs. The deaths were registered among relatively young people who were otherwise in good condition. One other person died of a brain haemorrhage. On April 15, Norway's government ignored a recommendation from the Institute of Public Health to drop the AstraZeneca jab for good, saying it wanted more time to decide. Oslo has therefore set up a committee of Norwegian and international experts tasked with studying all of the risks linked to the AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, which is also suspected of causing blood clots. Both are both based on adenovirus vector technology. (With inputs from agencies)

Norway to send 216,000 AstraZeneca Covid vaccine doses to Iceland and Sweden

Vaccines are effective in reducing caseloads and preventing death, according to evidence. There is a clear divide between those who got the jabs first, and those who did not. As a result, the global struggle to tame the virus continues.&nbsp;

The masks have come off in Israel and the people are back on the streets. The beaches are packed and friends can embrace, without fear. Most adults in Israel have got at least one jab. Now, kids could be next as Israel is gearing up for the second round of vaccinations. The focus this time is on 12 to 15 year olds.&nbsp;

Israel might have reached herd immunity but the rest of the world is still struggling to find its way out of this pandemic. New infections worldwide touched a new high last week with more than 5.2 million people testing positive, an increase of 12 per cent from a week earlier.&nbsp;

While Brazil and India are driving the global caseloads, European countries like France and Germany are experiencing large outbreaks too. France now plans to lift restrictions in May while in Germany, the government has come up with a new law to impose tougher restrictions on states. A move that triggered protests in Berlin. &nbsp;

But some other European nations are in much better shape, such as Belgium, Switzerland and Denmark, who have announced easing of restrictions as their caseloads reduce.&nbsp;

The case of Denmark stands out unlike the major European powers as it avoided a third wave. Its infection and death rates are among the lowest in Europe.&nbsp;

Now, Denmark is in a position to fully implement a vaccine passport, known as the Coronapas. The digital app shows a certificate of vaccination or a citizen's latest negative coronavirus test. &nbsp;

The European Union wants to implement such digital certificates across all 27 member states by June as it tries to allow free movement of Europeans again. Denmark could be the first to get there as the country lifts the restrictions. Citizens would now need a Coronapas to enjoy their freedoms again.&nbsp;

Those, who don't get their jabs, might struggle to move around in the future as countries mull movement restrictions for the unvaccinated. The UAE is one of them. After vaccinating 65 per cent of its eligible population, the UAE is considering strict measures to restrict the unvaccinated. This could include entry bans in some places and curbs on access to public services.&nbsp;

Israel's mass inoculation drive has given the rest of the world a glimpse into the future. Other countries are now betting on the jabs to end restrictions. With more than 925 million doses administered across 155 countries by now, it looks like the vaccines will be the only key you would need to leave the safety of your home. &nbsp;

Vaccines are effective in reducing caseloads and preventing death, according to evidence. There is a clear divide between those who got the jabs first, and those who did not.

Vaccines are effective in reducing caseloads and preventing death, according to evidence. There is a clear divide between those who got the jabs first, and those who did not. As a result, the global struggle to tame the virus continues. The masks have come off in Israel and the people are back on the streets. The beaches are packed and friends can embrace, without fear. Most adults in Israel have got at least one jab. Now, kids could be next as Israel is gearing up for the second round of vaccinations. The focus this time is on 12 to 15 year olds. Israel might have reached herd immunity but the rest of the world is still struggling to find its way out of this pandemic. New infections worldwide touched a new high last week with more than 5.2 million people testing positive, an increase of 12 per cent from a week earlier. While Brazil and India are driving the global caseloads, European countries like France and Germany are experiencing large outbreaks too. France now plans to lift restrictions in May while in Germany, the government has come up with a new law to impose tougher restrictions on states. A move that triggered protests in Berlin. But some other European nations are in much better shape, such as Belgium, Switzerland and Denmark, who have announced easing of restrictions as their caseloads reduce. The case of Denmark stands out unlike the major European powers as it avoided a third wave. Its infection and death rates are among the lowest in Europe. Now, Denmark is in a position to fully implement a vaccine passport, known as the Coronapas. The digital app shows a certificate of vaccination or a citizen's latest negative coronavirus test. The European Union wants to implement such digital certificates across all 27 member states by June as it tries to allow free movement of Europeans again. Denmark could be the first to get there as the country lifts the restrictions. Citizens would now need a Coronapas to enjoy their freedoms again. Those, who don't get their jabs, might struggle to move around in the future as countries mull movement restrictions for the unvaccinated. The UAE is one of them. After vaccinating 65 per cent of its eligible population, the UAE is considering strict measures to restrict the unvaccinated. This could include entry bans in some places and curbs on access to public services. Israel's mass inoculation drive has given the rest of the world a glimpse into the future. Other countries are now betting on the jabs to end restrictions. With more than 925 million doses administered across 155 countries by now, it looks like the vaccines will be the only key you would need to leave the safety of your home.

COVID-19: Vaccine a must for travel in future? 

India's health ministry data on Thursday showed a steep spike in daily number of coronavirus cases. More than 314,000 COVID-19 cases were recorded in just 24 hours. This has brought the total number of cases to 15,930,965.

At 314,835, the number of new cases is highest ever recorded in any country.

The death toll has increased to 184,657 with a record 2,104 new fatalities.

Number of active COVID-19 cases has increased to 229,1428, according to the ministry.

In an alarming development, the national recovery rate has dropped to 84.46 per cent. But fatality rate has dropped to 1.16 per cent.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/britains-heathrow-airport-turns-down-airline-requests-for-extra-flights-from-india-379144">Britain's Heathrow Airport turns down airline requests for extra flights from India</a>

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed 10 million mark by December 19. The grim milestone of 15 million was crossed on April 19.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's health ministry data on Thursday showed a steep spike in daily number of coronavirus cases. More than 314,000 COVID-19 cases were recorded in just 24 hours.

India's health ministry data on Thursday showed a steep spike in daily number of coronavirus cases. More than 314,000 COVID-19 cases were recorded in just 24 hours. This has brought the total number of cases to 15,930,965. At 314,835, the number of new cases is highest ever recorded in any country. The death toll has increased to 184,657 with a record 2,104 new fatalities. Number of active COVID-19 cases has increased to 229,1428, according to the ministry. In an alarming development, the national recovery rate has dropped to 84.46 per cent. But fatality rate has dropped to 1.16 per cent. Also Read | Britain's Heathrow Airport turns down airline requests for extra flights from India India's COVID-19 tally had crossed 10 million mark by December 19. The grim milestone of 15 million was crossed on April 19. (With inputs from agencies)

India's new daily Covid cases top 300,000, highest in the world

European&nbsp;countries&nbsp;prepared on Wednesday to&nbsp;resume&nbsp;deliveries&nbsp;of Johnson &amp; Johnson's&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;and speed up the rollout after Europe's drug regulator backed the shot.

Germany's health ministry said it would start&nbsp;deliveries&nbsp;to federal states for use in vaccination centres shortly, and that family doctors should receive the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;from week after next.

The&nbsp;European&nbsp;Medicines Agency (EMA) said on Tuesday that it had found a possible link between J&amp;J's&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;and rare blood clotting issues in adults who received doses in the United States, but it said that benefits of the one-dose shot outweigh its risks.

The review of a handful of cases prompted a pause in the rollout of the J&amp;J&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;in Europe and the United States last week, the latest setback to efforts to tackle the pandemic, which has killed more than 3.1 million and infected 142.1 million worldwide.

While the EMA said it considers the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;safe, it has left it up to the&nbsp;European&nbsp;Union's member states to decide how to use it, taking a similar stance to that with rival AstraZeneca's shot.

The Netherlands plans to&nbsp;resume&nbsp;the use of the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;as of Wednesday. Italy's health ministry recommended that the J&amp;J&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;be used for people over the age of 60.

In Germany, it was not immediately clear whether regulators would limit the use of J&amp;J's&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;to a certain age group, as it had done with the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;by AstraZeneca, which its&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;committee recommends for ages 60 and over. The committee, known as STIKO, is due to meet on Thursday.

Denmark's health authority expects to announce its decision next week on how to proceed, pending further investigations into the&nbsp;vaccine's possible link to rare blood clots.

Use of the J&amp;J&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;was temporarily halted by US&nbsp;regulators last week after rare brain blood clots combined with a low blood platelet count were reported in six women, prompting the company to delay its rollout in Europe. Nearly 8 million people in the United States have received the J&amp;J&nbsp;vaccine.

J&amp;J has said it is working closely with regulators and noted that no clear causal relationship had been established between the clotting cases and its shot.

European countries prepared on Wednesday to resume deliveries of Johnson & Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine and speed up the rollout after Europe's drug regulator backed the shot.

European countries prepared on Wednesday to resume deliveries of Johnson & Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine and speed up the rollout after Europe's drug regulator backed the shot. Germany's health ministry said it would start deliveries to federal states for use in vaccination centres shortly, and that family doctors should receive the vaccine from week after next. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) said on Tuesday that it had found a possible link between J&J's vaccine and rare blood clotting issues in adults who received doses in the United States, but it said that benefits of the one-dose shot outweigh its risks. The review of a handful of cases prompted a pause in the rollout of the J&J vaccine in Europe and the United States last week, the latest setback to efforts to tackle the pandemic, which has killed more than 3.1 million and infected 142.1 million worldwide. While the EMA said it considers the vaccine safe, it has left it up to the European Union's member states to decide how to use it, taking a similar stance to that with rival AstraZeneca's shot. The Netherlands plans to resume the use of the vaccine as of Wednesday. Italy's health ministry recommended that the J&J vaccine be used for people over the age of 60. In Germany, it was not immediately clear whether regulators would limit the use of J&J's vaccine to a certain age group, as it had done with the vaccine by AstraZeneca, which its vaccine committee recommends for ages 60 and over. The committee, known as STIKO, is due to meet on Thursday. Denmark's health authority expects to announce its decision next week on how to proceed, pending further investigations into the vaccine's possible link to rare blood clots. Use of the J&J vaccine was temporarily halted by US regulators last week after rare brain blood clots combined with a low blood platelet count were reported in six women, prompting the company to delay its rollout in Europe. Nearly 8 million people in the United States have received the J&J vaccine. J&J has said it is working closely with regulators and noted that no clear causal relationship had been established between the clotting cases and its shot.

European countries to resume J&J COVID vaccine deliveries

Coronavirus pandemic is a challenge enough. But the next big challenge is the mutation. Deadlier variants of the Wuhan virus are driving the second wave.

First it was Europe, then Brazil and Africa. Now the virus mutations have struck Asia.&nbsp;

The double mutant that was found in India last year, is now being spotted &nbsp;around the world. The flight bans are back.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-double-mutant-now-in-at-least-16-countries-378681/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

If 2020 was about containing the virus, in 2021, governments are playing catch up with it. The reason is mutations.

After the British and South African variants, an Indian mutation is now quickly becoming a matter of concern worldwide. It's called the double mutant.

This variant carries two mutations of the virus. Scientists had earlier found them separately.

But last year, they were reported together for the first time in India. It is believed that the double mutant is driving India's second wave.

The study of this mutation has been limited. But reports say that prevalence of the double mutant was as high as 52 per cent in January.

Maharashtra is one of the biggest hotspots in the country. The double mutant was found in more than 60 per cent of the samples tested.

As India struggles with its second wave, reports say the double mutant has jumped borders. It has now been detected in at least 16 countries.

The list includes the US, UK, Australia and New Zealand.&nbsp;

Researchers are still trying to find out whether the double mutant is deadlier. But one of the mutations in this variant is known to be much more infectious.

Reports say that this mutation increases viral transmission by 20 per cent and reduces the efficacy of antibodies by more than 50 per cent.

This could mean two things. One, the virus can spread faster to more people. And two, it raises the risk of re-infection.

As a result perhaps, flights from India are now facing bans. Hong Kong has banned passenger planes from India for 14 days. Flights from Pakistan and the Philippines have been banned too.

Earlier, New Zealand had banned flights from India.

Recently, Hong Kong detected cases of the N501Y strain, another mutation that's highly infectious. The fact that the Wuhan virus has mutated doesn't come as a surprise.

It's&nbsp;the nature of these mutations that is a cause of concern. The variants of concern are infecting more people. And weakening the vaccines that were supposed to be the world's exit strategy from this pandemic.

Mutations might extend the war against this virus.

The tried and tested method to shield yourself from the virus is use of masks, hand sanitisers and social distancing. 
&nbsp;

Coronavirus pandemic is a challenge enough. But the next big challenge is the mutation. Deadlier variants of the Wuhan virus are driving the second wave. First it was Europe, then Brazil and Africa.

Coronavirus pandemic is a challenge enough. But the next big challenge is the mutation. Deadlier variants of the Wuhan virus are driving the second wave. First it was Europe, then Brazil and Africa. Now the virus mutations have struck Asia. The double mutant that was found in India last year, is now being spotted around the world. The flight bans are back. If 2020 was about containing the virus, in 2021, governments are playing catch up with it. The reason is mutations. After the British and South African variants, an Indian mutation is now quickly becoming a matter of concern worldwide. It's called the double mutant. This variant carries two mutations of the virus. Scientists had earlier found them separately. But last year, they were reported together for the first time in India. It is believed that the double mutant is driving India's second wave. The study of this mutation has been limited. But reports say that prevalence of the double mutant was as high as 52 per cent in January. Maharashtra is one of the biggest hotspots in the country. The double mutant was found in more than 60 per cent of the samples tested. As India struggles with its second wave, reports say the double mutant has jumped borders. It has now been detected in at least 16 countries. The list includes the US, UK, Australia and New Zealand. Researchers are still trying to find out whether the double mutant is deadlier. But one of the mutations in this variant is known to be much more infectious. Reports say that this mutation increases viral transmission by 20 per cent and reduces the efficacy of antibodies by more than 50 per cent. This could mean two things. One, the virus can spread faster to more people. And two, it raises the risk of re-infection. As a result perhaps, flights from India are now facing bans. Hong Kong has banned passenger planes from India for 14 days. Flights from Pakistan and the Philippines have been banned too. Earlier, New Zealand had banned flights from India. Recently, Hong Kong detected cases of the N501Y strain, another mutation that's highly infectious. The fact that the Wuhan virus has mutated doesn't come as a surprise. It's the nature of these mutations that is a cause of concern. The variants of concern are infecting more people. And weakening the vaccines that were supposed to be the world's exit strategy from this pandemic. Mutations might extend the war against this virus. The tried and tested method to shield yourself from the virus is use of masks, hand sanitisers and social distancing.

Mutations may prolong war against coronavirus

India will waive its 10% customs duty on imported COVID-19 vaccines, a senior government official told Reuters on Monday, as it tries to boost supplies to counter a dramatic surge in coronavirus cases.

Imports of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine are due to arrive soon and the government has also urged Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson and Johnson to sell their products to India.

The official, who declined to be named, also said the government was considering allowing private entities to import approved vaccines for sale on the open market without government intervention. They could also be given the freedom to set pricing, he added.

The Indian government currently regulates the sale and purchase of all COVID-19 shots in the country.

A finance ministry spokesman did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment outside business hours.

Other South Asian countries, including Nepal and Pakistan, as well as Latin American nations such as Argentina and Brazil levy vaccine import tariffs ranging between 10% and 20%.

New COVID-19 infections and deaths in India have jumped by record numbers for days, with hospitals running short of beds, oxygen and key medicines. Total deaths have swelled to nearly 179,000 and cases have climbed above 15 million, the world's second-highest tally behind the United States.

The government has now decided to open vaccinations for all adults from May 1.

India will waive its 10% customs duty on imported COVID-19 vaccines, a senior government official told Reuters on Monday, as it tries to boost supplies to counter a dramatic surge in coronavirus cases.

India will waive its 10% customs duty on imported COVID-19 vaccines, a senior government official told Reuters on Monday, as it tries to boost supplies to counter a dramatic surge in coronavirus cases. Imports of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine are due to arrive soon and the government has also urged Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson and Johnson to sell their products to India. The official, who declined to be named, also said the government was considering allowing private entities to import approved vaccines for sale on the open market without government intervention. They could also be given the freedom to set pricing, he added. The Indian government currently regulates the sale and purchase of all COVID-19 shots in the country. A finance ministry spokesman did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment outside business hours. Other South Asian countries, including Nepal and Pakistan, as well as Latin American nations such as Argentina and Brazil levy vaccine import tariffs ranging between 10% and 20%. New COVID-19 infections and deaths in India have jumped by record numbers for days, with hospitals running short of beds, oxygen and key medicines. Total deaths have swelled to nearly 179,000 and cases have climbed above 15 million, the world's second-highest tally behind the United States. The government has now decided to open vaccinations for all adults from May 1.

India to waive import duty on Covid-19 vaccines: Report

Baseball is back across California. Tickets to see Bad Bunny early next year were snatched up in no time. The Musso &amp;amp; Frank Grill — the iconic, very much indoors Hollywood haunt — has announced it will reopen May 6.

That’s all been possible, officials and experts say, because increasing numbers of Californians are vaccinated.

And although the biggest hurdle for the state’s vaccine campaign has been a limited supply of doses, that’s changing quickly, officials say.

As of Monday, 1 in 4 Californians was fully inoculated and more than 40% of Californians have received at least one shot. All adults 16 and older are eligible to be vaccinated.

Many businesses have been allowed to reopen — but some can open at higher capacity if they require proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test. The state is also allowing larger groups to gather, if everyone is tested or fully vaccinated.

So how does one quickly and consistently prove they have been vaccinated? One option is what has come to be known as a “vaccine passport.”

Here’s what you need to know about what that would mean in California:

What is a vaccine passport?

Mostly, the term has been used to describe a digital certificate of vaccination.

Think of the boarding pass you would show on your phone to get through airport security, or of a digital concert ticket with a QR code.

You should receive a paper vaccination card when you get your first dose, but, of course, any kind of paper document is vulnerable.

Still, experts say that the term “passport” is misleading. It is actually more like vaccine verification — something that has long existed in various contexts and forms. (Schools and summer camps, for instance, often require children to be inoculated against certain diseases.)

“We’re not calling it a passport, because that implies it’s a government-issued document,” Dr. Christopher Longhurst, UC San Diego Health’s chief information officer, told me. “That’s not what we’re talking about.”

Why is there a debate over the use of vaccine passports?

As with most things that involve health data, there are concerns about privacy. And as with everything that involves sorting people into groups of haves and have-nots, there are questions about fairness and ethics.

There are wide disparities in vaccination rates among countries, and vaccine passports could make international travel much easier for residents of wealthy countries.

In the United States, conservative politicians have turned “vaccine passports” into a political and cultural flash point, arguing that they infringe on Americans’ freedom. Some states, like Texas, have barred organizations receiving state money from requiring vaccine credentials.

The White House has said the federal government will not support “a system that requires Americans to carry a credential.”

But legal experts have said that businesses like airlines, concert venues or warehouse operators are within their rights to require employees or customers to do things in the interest of public health. Many businesses have said they want to be able to assure customers that their fellow patrons are inoculated in order to coax them back.

Michael Jerrett, a professor of environmental health science at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, told me that as long as there is “equal access” to vaccines themselves, vaccine verification could be used to help prevent workplace outbreaks in the future.

Will I need a vaccine passport if I live in California?

Not exactly. As The Los Angeles Times reported, the state is effectively encouraging venues to require proof of vaccination, as they are allowed to bring in more people if they do.

But state officials have emphasized they will not require them.

So, Longhurst said, the state has effectively “tossed the ball” to private companies.

UC San Diego Health is partnering with the Vaccine Credential Initiative in an effort to ensure that whatever digital vaccine verification is required, there is an “open standard” that is consistent and secure no matter where you go.

“The worst-case scenario is that venues and stadiums all have a different approach,” he said.

Longhurst added that a collaborative, open approach could also prevent a single private company from becoming the sole provider of vaccine verification services, as has been the case for New York, which became the first state to launch a digital health certificate called the Excelsior Pass.

A Republican state lawmaker has introduced a bill that would block state or other government agencies from enacting digital health documentation policies, according to The Sacramento Bee — but the effort is unlikely to go far.

Baseball is back across California. Tickets to see Bad Bunny early next year were snatched up in no time. The Musso &amp; Frank Grill — the iconic, very much indoors Hollywood haunt — has announced it will reopen May 6.

Baseball is back across California. Tickets to see Bad Bunny early next year were snatched up in no time. The Musso &amp; Frank Grill — the iconic, very much indoors Hollywood haunt — has announced it will reopen May 6. That’s all been possible, officials and experts say, because increasing numbers of Californians are vaccinated. And although the biggest hurdle for the state’s vaccine campaign has been a limited supply of doses, that’s changing quickly, officials say. As of Monday, 1 in 4 Californians was fully inoculated and more than 40% of Californians have received at least one shot. All adults 16 and older are eligible to be vaccinated. Many businesses have been allowed to reopen — but some can open at higher capacity if they require proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test. The state is also allowing larger groups to gather, if everyone is tested or fully vaccinated. So how does one quickly and consistently prove they have been vaccinated? One option is what has come to be known as a “vaccine passport.” Here’s what you need to know about what that would mean in California: What is a vaccine passport? Mostly, the term has been used to describe a digital certificate of vaccination. Think of the boarding pass you would show on your phone to get through airport security, or of a digital concert ticket with a QR code. You should receive a paper vaccination card when you get your first dose, but, of course, any kind of paper document is vulnerable. Still, experts say that the term “passport” is misleading. It is actually more like vaccine verification — something that has long existed in various contexts and forms. (Schools and summer camps, for instance, often require children to be inoculated against certain diseases.) “We’re not calling it a passport, because that implies it’s a government-issued document,” Dr. Christopher Longhurst, UC San Diego Health’s chief information officer, told me. “That’s not what we’re talking about.” Why is there a debate over the use of vaccine passports? As with most things that involve health data, there are concerns about privacy. And as with everything that involves sorting people into groups of haves and have-nots, there are questions about fairness and ethics. There are wide disparities in vaccination rates among countries, and vaccine passports could make international travel much easier for residents of wealthy countries. In the United States, conservative politicians have turned “vaccine passports” into a political and cultural flash point, arguing that they infringe on Americans’ freedom. Some states, like Texas, have barred organizations receiving state money from requiring vaccine credentials. The White House has said the federal government will not support “a system that requires Americans to carry a credential.” But legal experts have said that businesses like airlines, concert venues or warehouse operators are within their rights to require employees or customers to do things in the interest of public health. Many businesses have said they want to be able to assure customers that their fellow patrons are inoculated in order to coax them back. Michael Jerrett, a professor of environmental health science at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, told me that as long as there is “equal access” to vaccines themselves, vaccine verification could be used to help prevent workplace outbreaks in the future. Will I need a vaccine passport if I live in California? Not exactly. As The Los Angeles Times reported, the state is effectively encouraging venues to require proof of vaccination, as they are allowed to bring in more people if they do. But state officials have emphasized they will not require them. So, Longhurst said, the state has effectively “tossed the ball” to private companies. UC San Diego Health is partnering with the Vaccine Credential Initiative in an effort to ensure that whatever digital vaccine verification is required, there is an “open standard” that is consistent and secure no matter where you go. “The worst-case scenario is that venues and stadiums all have a different approach,” he said. Longhurst added that a collaborative, open approach could also prevent a single private company from becoming the sole provider of vaccine verification services, as has been the case for New York, which became the first state to launch a digital health certificate called the Excelsior Pass. A Republican state lawmaker has introduced a bill that would block state or other government agencies from enacting digital health documentation policies, according to The Sacramento Bee — but the effort is unlikely to go far.

Will you need a vaccine passport in California?

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that he has asked 'some big countries' to keep raw material for Covid vaccine 'flowing'. India produces 60% of global vaccines and has been termed as the 'pharmacy of the world'. &nbsp;

Speaking at an event, he said, "Today as foreign minister, I am pushing other countries, particularly some big countries that look please keep the raw materials flowing for vaccines to be made in India."&nbsp;

He explained, "Can I go around the world and tell people that guys, keep your supply chains flowing towards me and by the way the end product.. I am asking you for raw material but I am not going to give you the vaccine. Look at the vaccine, your largest vaccine under production is an international product, It’s a co-creation, it’s a co-production." &nbsp;

The development comes even as the US has remained non-committal on allowing the opening up of export of raw material for vaccines to India. On Monday, questions were asked to both White House spokesperson Jen Psaki and US President Joe Biden's chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on the issue, but no direct answers came. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr Jaishankar also batted for the export of vaccines saying, those questioning it are 'shortsighted'. He said, "If you get into this, why are you exporting abroad, then someone else will ask, why I am exporting to India. That is so shortsighted, only really irresponsible people, non-serious people can make some kind of argument." &nbsp;

India has supplied 660.13 lakh doses of Covid vaccines to 92 countries along with UN health workers and UN Peacekeepers as of April 20. Of this, 106.15 lakh has been supplied as a gift, 357.92 commercially, and 192.06 under the Covax facility. India began the export of vaccines days after it began its domestic vaccination in January, with Bhutan and Maldives being the first countries to get it as a gift. Albania was the last country as of now to get on April 16, with a gift of 0.50 lakh doses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He also dismissed 'those who talk about why you doing this to the world', highlighting, "It’s not we are not prioritising our people" and "when things got tough, we actually spoke to the world very honestly and said look we have done our best to live up to the commitments, contractual commitments to the producers, Covax commitments, GAVI...but right now, please understand I have a very situation at home, and most countries understand that."&nbsp;

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that he has asked 'some big countries' to keep raw material for Covid vaccine 'flowing'. India produces 60% of global vaccines and has been termed as the 'pharmacy of the world'.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that he has asked 'some big countries' to keep raw material for Covid vaccine 'flowing'. India produces 60% of global vaccines and has been termed as the 'pharmacy of the world'. Speaking at an event, he said, "Today as foreign minister, I am pushing other countries, particularly some big countries that look please keep the raw materials flowing for vaccines to be made in India." He explained, "Can I go around the world and tell people that guys, keep your supply chains flowing towards me and by the way the end product.. I am asking you for raw material but I am not going to give you the vaccine. Look at the vaccine, your largest vaccine under production is an international product, It’s a co-creation, it’s a co-production." The development comes even as the US has remained non-committal on allowing the opening up of export of raw material for vaccines to India. On Monday, questions were asked to both White House spokesperson Jen Psaki and US President Joe Biden's chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on the issue, but no direct answers came. Dr Jaishankar also batted for the export of vaccines saying, those questioning it are 'shortsighted'. He said, "If you get into this, why are you exporting abroad, then someone else will ask, why I am exporting to India. That is so shortsighted, only really irresponsible people, non-serious people can make some kind of argument." India has supplied 660.13 lakh doses of Covid vaccines to 92 countries along with UN health workers and UN Peacekeepers as of April 20. Of this, 106.15 lakh has been supplied as a gift, 357.92 commercially, and 192.06 under the Covax facility. India began the export of vaccines days after it began its domestic vaccination in January, with Bhutan and Maldives being the first countries to get it as a gift. Albania was the last country as of now to get on April 16, with a gift of 0.50 lakh doses. He also dismissed 'those who talk about why you doing this to the world', highlighting, "It’s not we are not prioritising our people" and "when things got tough, we actually spoke to the world very honestly and said look we have done our best to live up to the commitments, contractual commitments to the producers, Covax commitments, GAVI...but right now, please understand I have a very situation at home, and most countries understand that."

Pushing countries to keep vaccine raw material flowing says EAM; Bats for vaccine export  

Johnson &amp; Johnson beat expectations for quarterly earnings and raised its dividend payouts to shareholders on Tuesday, while reporting $100 million in sales of its COVID-19 vaccine, whose use was paused by U.S. regulators last week.

The company, which has previously said the vaccine will be available on a not-for-profit basis until the end of the pandemic, also tightened its forecast for adjusted profit this year, suggesting it was largely performing as previously expected.

Use of the company's vaccine was temporarily halted by U.S. regulators as they investigate reports of blood clots in six women, prompting a similar pause in South Africa and leading to a delay in rollout in Europe.

The United States is also reviewing a handful of potential cases of severe side effects in addition to those that led to the pause.

J&amp;J is aiming to deliver 100 million doses of the vaccine to the United States before the end of May, of which more than 17 million have already been distributed as of Monday.

"While we expect many questions on its Covid-19 vaccine, this should not overshadow the strong recovery for J&amp;J," Citi analyst Joanne Wuensch wrote in a note to clients.

Sales of cancer drug Darzalex rose 45.7% to $1.37 billion and sales of Stelara, a treatment for Crohn's disease and plaque psoriasis, rose about 18% to $2.15 billion.

The company now expects full-year adjusted profit of $9.42 to $9.57 per share, compared with its prior forecast of $9.40 to $9.60 per share.

Excluding items, the company earned $2.59 per share, beating analysts' estimates of $2.34 per share, according to IBES data from Refinitiv.

Total sales rose 7.9% to $22.32 billion, beating estimates of $21.98 billion.

The company also increased its quarterly dividend to $1.06 per share from $1.01 per share.

Johnson & Johnson beat expectations for quarterly earnings and raised its dividend payouts to shareholders on Tuesday, while reporting $100 million in sales of its COVID-19 vaccine, whose use was paused by U.

Johnson & Johnson beat expectations for quarterly earnings and raised its dividend payouts to shareholders on Tuesday, while reporting $100 million in sales of its COVID-19 vaccine, whose use was paused by U.S. regulators last week. The company, which has previously said the vaccine will be available on a not-for-profit basis until the end of the pandemic, also tightened its forecast for adjusted profit this year, suggesting it was largely performing as previously expected. Use of the company's vaccine was temporarily halted by U.S. regulators as they investigate reports of blood clots in six women, prompting a similar pause in South Africa and leading to a delay in rollout in Europe. The United States is also reviewing a handful of potential cases of severe side effects in addition to those that led to the pause. J&J is aiming to deliver 100 million doses of the vaccine to the United States before the end of May, of which more than 17 million have already been distributed as of Monday. "While we expect many questions on its Covid-19 vaccine, this should not overshadow the strong recovery for J&J," Citi analyst Joanne Wuensch wrote in a note to clients. Sales of cancer drug Darzalex rose 45.7% to $1.37 billion and sales of Stelara, a treatment for Crohn's disease and plaque psoriasis, rose about 18% to $2.15 billion. The company now expects full-year adjusted profit of $9.42 to $9.57 per share, compared with its prior forecast of $9.40 to $9.60 per share. Excluding items, the company earned $2.59 per share, beating analysts' estimates of $2.34 per share, according to IBES data from Refinitiv. Total sales rose 7.9% to $22.32 billion, beating estimates of $21.98 billion. The company also increased its quarterly dividend to $1.06 per share from $1.01 per share.

J&J reports $100 million in vaccine sales as results top forecasts

Europe's drug regulator was expected to rule on Tuesday on the safety of the Johnson &amp; Johnson Covid-19 vaccine after fears it could be linked to extremely rare blood clots, while India said it will make shots available to all adults as it battles a terrifying wave of infections.&nbsp;

The United States is also expected to announce its decision on the single-shot J&amp;J vaccine by Friday, as nations around the world try to accelerate their rollouts and revive their pandemic-ravaged economies.&nbsp;

The European Medicines Agency was due to hold a press conference from Amsterdam on Tuesday, after reviewing four cases, one fatal, of rare blood clots reported among people, who got the J&amp;J shot.&nbsp;

But the number of reported clots were 'extremely small' compared with the 4.5 million J&amp;J shots administered worldwide, the EMA has said.&nbsp;

That comparison echoes the comments by top US pandemic advisor Anthony Fauci, who described the clots as 'an extraordinarily rare event'.&nbsp;

Fauci said on Sunday, he believed the US would resume use of the jab, possibly with some restrictions or warnings.&nbsp;

The J&amp;J vaccine concerns follow similar reports of blood clots in a very small number of people, who received the AstraZeneca shot.&nbsp;

The EMA described those clots as a 'very rare' side effect, stressing that the AstraZeneca jab's benefits outweigh the risks.&nbsp;

The leaders of Europe are keen to accelerate vaccinations and expand availability after facing intense criticism over a sluggish rollout and with the public desperate for a return to some degree of normality.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Europe's drug regulator was expected to rule on Tuesday on the safety of the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine after fears it could be linked to extremely rare blood clots, while India said it will make shots available to all adults as it battles a terrifying wave of infections.

Europe's drug regulator was expected to rule on Tuesday on the safety of the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine after fears it could be linked to extremely rare blood clots, while India said it will make shots available to all adults as it battles a terrifying wave of infections. The United States is also expected to announce its decision on the single-shot J&J vaccine by Friday, as nations around the world try to accelerate their rollouts and revive their pandemic-ravaged economies. The European Medicines Agency was due to hold a press conference from Amsterdam on Tuesday, after reviewing four cases, one fatal, of rare blood clots reported among people, who got the J&J shot. But the number of reported clots were 'extremely small' compared with the 4.5 million J&J shots administered worldwide, the EMA has said. That comparison echoes the comments by top US pandemic advisor Anthony Fauci, who described the clots as 'an extraordinarily rare event'. Fauci said on Sunday, he believed the US would resume use of the jab, possibly with some restrictions or warnings. The J&J vaccine concerns follow similar reports of blood clots in a very small number of people, who received the AstraZeneca shot. The EMA described those clots as a 'very rare' side effect, stressing that the AstraZeneca jab's benefits outweigh the risks. The leaders of Europe are keen to accelerate vaccinations and expand availability after facing intense criticism over a sluggish rollout and with the public desperate for a return to some degree of normality. (With inputs from agencies)

EU to rule on Johnson & Johnson vaccine’s safety  

The EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton hinted Sunday that the bloc might decide not to order AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab again following delays in delivering the first batches of the vaccine.

"We're pragmatic. My priority, as far as the vaccines are concerned, is to ensure that the firms we have contracts with deliver them punctually," Breton told BFMTV television.&nbsp;

Brussels had originally ordered 120 million doses of the Anglo-Swedish group's jab for the 27 member states in the first quarter and 180 million in the second quarter.

But the drug maker &nbsp;"only delivered 30 million, thus creating the problems that everyone has seen," Breton said.

And only another 70 million will be delivered in the second quarter, he continued, but added: "Nothing is decided. Talks are still ongoing".

The EU commissioner insisted that any such decision would "not be for epidemiological or medical reasons".

"When looking at the data, the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh the disease," he said.&nbsp;

French industry minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher had suggested on Friday that the EU might not renew its contract with AstraZeneca in 2022 after Denmark became the first European country to stop using the jab altogether over suspected rare but serious side effects.

While other countries also suspended its use, at least temporarily, most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency (EMA), emphasised the benefits of the vaccine, judging it "safe and effective".&nbsp;

Pannier-Runacher said that the EU had "not started discussions with Johnson &amp; Johnson and with AstraZeneca for a new contract, whereas we have already started discussions with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna", the makers of two other vaccines on the market in Europe.&nbsp;

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen also said this week that German biotech firm BioNTech and US pharma giant Pfizer had shown themselves to be "reliable partners, who have honoured their commitments and have reacted quickly with regard to our needs".&nbsp;

In France, 23 cases and eight deaths have been reported of rare blood clots after taking the AstraZeneca jab, out of more than 2.7 million doses administered so far.

Nevertheless, Alain Fischer, an immunologist who heads the government's vaccination advisory board, told French radio on Sunday the benefits of the jab for people aged 55 and over "very much outweighed the risks" of possible complications.

The EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton hinted Sunday that the bloc might decide not to order AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab again following delays in delivering the first batches of the vaccine.

The EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton hinted Sunday that the bloc might decide not to order AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab again following delays in delivering the first batches of the vaccine. "We're pragmatic. My priority, as far as the vaccines are concerned, is to ensure that the firms we have contracts with deliver them punctually," Breton told BFMTV television. Brussels had originally ordered 120 million doses of the Anglo-Swedish group's jab for the 27 member states in the first quarter and 180 million in the second quarter. But the drug maker "only delivered 30 million, thus creating the problems that everyone has seen," Breton said. And only another 70 million will be delivered in the second quarter, he continued, but added: "Nothing is decided. Talks are still ongoing". The EU commissioner insisted that any such decision would "not be for epidemiological or medical reasons". "When looking at the data, the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh the disease," he said. French industry minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher had suggested on Friday that the EU might not renew its contract with AstraZeneca in 2022 after Denmark became the first European country to stop using the jab altogether over suspected rare but serious side effects. While other countries also suspended its use, at least temporarily, most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency (EMA), emphasised the benefits of the vaccine, judging it "safe and effective". Pannier-Runacher said that the EU had "not started discussions with Johnson & Johnson and with AstraZeneca for a new contract, whereas we have already started discussions with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna", the makers of two other vaccines on the market in Europe. EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen also said this week that German biotech firm BioNTech and US pharma giant Pfizer had shown themselves to be "reliable partners, who have honoured their commitments and have reacted quickly with regard to our needs". In France, 23 cases and eight deaths have been reported of rare blood clots after taking the AstraZeneca jab, out of more than 2.7 million doses administered so far. Nevertheless, Alain Fischer, an immunologist who heads the government's vaccination advisory board, told French radio on Sunday the benefits of the jab for people aged 55 and over "very much outweighed the risks" of possible complications.

EU hints it might not order AstraZeneca jab again

The Philippines has lifted a suspension on the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine for people under 60, an official said Monday, arguing "the benefits outweigh the risk" as the country battles record infections.&nbsp;

Several countries suspended use of the drug after it was linked to rare but serious blood clotting.

Most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency, emphasised the benefits of the jab, judging it "safe and effective".

Philippine Health Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire said the drug regulator had recommended "extra precautions" for administering the shot to people with certain existing health conditions.&nbsp;

"We need to recall that only a very small percentage of the population is affected by adverse effects from AstraZeneca," Vergeire told reporters.

"We will come up with guidelines on the use of AstraZeneca to include these different precautions that was stated by the Food and Drug Administration."

The Philippines has received around three million doses of Covid-19 vaccines so far -- the vast majority from China's Sinovac.

It also got 525,600 AstraZeneca doses through the Covax programme, according to official data.

The country expects another three million AstraZeneca doses in the coming months.&nbsp;

More than 1.2 million people have received their first dose of a vaccine, most of them health workers, official data shows.&nbsp;

Fewer than 200,000 people are fully vaccinated seven weeks after inoculations started.&nbsp;

President Rodrigo Duterte's government has been skewered by critics over its handling of the pandemic and efforts to secure vaccines.

A lockdown in the capital and four surrounding provinces has been in place for the past three weeks in a bid to curb the spread of the virus and decongest hospitals.&nbsp;

The roughly three million vaccine doses received so far represent a fraction of the shots Manila has been negotiating with seven manufacturers to secure.&nbsp;

The bulk of the supply is not expected until later this year.

But Duterte said last week he did not know when the country would have enough doses to vaccinate everyone, warning "many more will die".

The Philippines recorded more than 9,600 new infections on Monday, taking its caseload to 945,745, including just over 16,000 deaths. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Philippines has lifted a suspension on the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine for people under 60, an official said Monday, arguing "the benefits outweigh the risk" as the country battles record infections.

The Philippines has lifted a suspension on the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine for people under 60, an official said Monday, arguing "the benefits outweigh the risk" as the country battles record infections. Several countries suspended use of the drug after it was linked to rare but serious blood clotting. Most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency, emphasised the benefits of the jab, judging it "safe and effective". Philippine Health Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire said the drug regulator had recommended "extra precautions" for administering the shot to people with certain existing health conditions. "We need to recall that only a very small percentage of the population is affected by adverse effects from AstraZeneca," Vergeire told reporters. "We will come up with guidelines on the use of AstraZeneca to include these different precautions that was stated by the Food and Drug Administration." The Philippines has received around three million doses of Covid-19 vaccines so far -- the vast majority from China's Sinovac. It also got 525,600 AstraZeneca doses through the Covax programme, according to official data. The country expects another three million AstraZeneca doses in the coming months. More than 1.2 million people have received their first dose of a vaccine, most of them health workers, official data shows. Fewer than 200,000 people are fully vaccinated seven weeks after inoculations started. President Rodrigo Duterte's government has been skewered by critics over its handling of the pandemic and efforts to secure vaccines. A lockdown in the capital and four surrounding provinces has been in place for the past three weeks in a bid to curb the spread of the virus and decongest hospitals. The roughly three million vaccine doses received so far represent a fraction of the shots Manila has been negotiating with seven manufacturers to secure. The bulk of the supply is not expected until later this year. But Duterte said last week he did not know when the country would have enough doses to vaccinate everyone, warning "many more will die". The Philippines recorded more than 9,600 new infections on Monday, taking its caseload to 945,745, including just over 16,000 deaths.

Philippines lifts suspension on AstraZeneca vaccine for under 60s

On Gravitas Plus | The virus is becoming more dangerous, but politics is impeding our response. Vaccines are being locked by patents. Rich countries are hoarding them as low-income nations lie unprotected. Palki Sharma says it's time to put people before profit.

Gravitas Plus: Vaccine hyper nationalism is helping no one

A group of UK church leaders have come together to urge the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, not to adopt the policy of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> passports.

More than 1,250 clergies from different Christian groups signed an open letter to Johnson claiming the "introduction of vaccine passports would constitute an unethical form of coercion and violation of the principle of informed consent."

The signatories believe that vaccines should not be the deciding factor of whether or not someone will be allowed to enter a venue or participate in an activity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-a-vaccine-passport-all-you-need-to-know-369934">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-a-vaccine-passport-all-you-need-to-know-369934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"If the vaccines are highly effective in preventing significant disease, as seems to be the evidence from trial results to date, then those who have been vaccinated have already received protection; there is no benefit to them of other people being vaccinated," the letter reads.

They also believe that the introduction of vaccine passports will be a violation of the principle of informed consent. The leaders feel this can create a "two-tier society" which can lead to an 'underclass' of people being excluded from various areas of public life.

"There is also a legitimate fear that this scheme would be the thin end of the wedge leading to a permanent state of affairs in which COVID vaccine status could be expanded to encompass other forms of medical treatment and perhaps even other criteria beyond that," the letter reads. "This scheme has the potential to bring about the end of liberal democracy as we know it and to create a surveillance state in which the government uses technology to control certain aspects of citizens' lives."

More importantly, the leaders have emphasised that as Christian leaders they cannot close their doors on somebody if they do not have a vaccine passport or certificate. "For the Church of Jesus Christ to shut out those deemed by the state to be social undesirables would be anathema to us and a denial of the truth of the Gospel," they believe.

A group of UK church leaders have come together to urge the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, not to adopt the policy of vaccine passports. More than 1,250 clergies from different Christian groups signed an open letter to Johnson claiming the "introduction of vaccine passports would constitute an unethical form of coercion and violation of the principle of informed consent.

A group of UK church leaders have come together to urge the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, not to adopt the policy of vaccine passports. More than 1,250 clergies from different Christian groups signed an open letter to Johnson claiming the "introduction of vaccine passports would constitute an unethical form of coercion and violation of the principle of informed consent." The signatories believe that vaccines should not be the deciding factor of whether or not someone will be allowed to enter a venue or participate in an activity. Watch | "If the vaccines are highly effective in preventing significant disease, as seems to be the evidence from trial results to date, then those who have been vaccinated have already received protection; there is no benefit to them of other people being vaccinated," the letter reads. They also believe that the introduction of vaccine passports will be a violation of the principle of informed consent. The leaders feel this can create a "two-tier society" which can lead to an 'underclass' of people being excluded from various areas of public life. "There is also a legitimate fear that this scheme would be the thin end of the wedge leading to a permanent state of affairs in which COVID vaccine status could be expanded to encompass other forms of medical treatment and perhaps even other criteria beyond that," the letter reads. "This scheme has the potential to bring about the end of liberal democracy as we know it and to create a surveillance state in which the government uses technology to control certain aspects of citizens' lives." More importantly, the leaders have emphasised that as Christian leaders they cannot close their doors on somebody if they do not have a vaccine passport or certificate. "For the Church of Jesus Christ to shut out those deemed by the state to be social undesirables would be anathema to us and a denial of the truth of the Gospel," they believe.

Breach of privacy: UK church leaders protest against vaccine passport

Hong Kong authorities said on Thursday that the city’s vaccine scheme would be widened to include those aged between 16 to 29 years old for the first time, as they aim to boost lackluster demand for inoculations in the Asian financial hub.

Hong Kong has seen a relatively slow take-up of vaccines since rolling out the scheme in February, with only around 8 per cent of Hong Kong’s 7.5 million residents having been inoculated so far.

Patrick Nip, Secretary for the Civil Service, said that the widening of the scheme would enable a total of 6.5 million residents to take part.

Have a look |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hong-kong-celebrates-first-national-security-education-day-377780" hreflang="en">Hong Kong celebrates first 'National Security Education Day'</a>

“We appeal to the public to take the vaccine as soon as possible so HK won’t fall into the vicious cycle of wave after wave of outbreak,” he said.

The widening of the scheme comes three days after the city’s Chief Executive Carrie Lam said Hong Kong would loosen some coronavirus restrictions for residents who have been fully inoculated from late April.

The slow take-up of vaccines in Hong Kong has been driven by dwindling confidence in China’s Sinovac vaccine and fears of adverse reactions.

The city began vaccinating residents with doses from Sinovac in February and started offering a vaccine developed by BioNTech in March.

Residents can choose which vaccine they take with the BioNTech shot seeing far greater demand. On a daily basis, two to three times more people booked inoculation with the BioNTech shot than with the Sinovac one, according to government figures.

Nip said residents aged 16 and 17 can only receive a BioNTech dose while those older than 18 years old can choose between the shot and the Sinovac vaccine.

Around 632,000 people have received their first vaccination dose, around 8% of the city’s population.

The former British colony has recorded around 11,600 total coronavirus cases, far lower than other developed cities.

Hong Kong authorities said on Thursday that the city’s vaccine scheme would be widened to include those aged between 16 to 29 years old for the first time, as they aim to boost lackluster demand for inoculations in the Asian financial hub.

Hong Kong authorities said on Thursday that the city’s vaccine scheme would be widened to include those aged between 16 to 29 years old for the first time, as they aim to boost lackluster demand for inoculations in the Asian financial hub. Hong Kong has seen a relatively slow take-up of vaccines since rolling out the scheme in February, with only around 8 per cent of Hong Kong’s 7.5 million residents having been inoculated so far. Patrick Nip, Secretary for the Civil Service, said that the widening of the scheme would enable a total of 6.5 million residents to take part. Have a look | Hong Kong celebrates first 'National Security Education Day' “We appeal to the public to take the vaccine as soon as possible so HK won’t fall into the vicious cycle of wave after wave of outbreak,” he said. The widening of the scheme comes three days after the city’s Chief Executive Carrie Lam said Hong Kong would loosen some coronavirus restrictions for residents who have been fully inoculated from late April. The slow take-up of vaccines in Hong Kong has been driven by dwindling confidence in China’s Sinovac vaccine and fears of adverse reactions. The city began vaccinating residents with doses from Sinovac in February and started offering a vaccine developed by BioNTech in March. Residents can choose which vaccine they take with the BioNTech shot seeing far greater demand. On a daily basis, two to three times more people booked inoculation with the BioNTech shot than with the Sinovac one, according to government figures. Nip said residents aged 16 and 17 can only receive a BioNTech dose while those older than 18 years old can choose between the shot and the Sinovac vaccine. Around 632,000 people have received their first vaccination dose, around 8% of the city’s population. The former British colony has recorded around 11,600 total coronavirus cases, far lower than other developed cities.

Hong Kong widens COVID-19 vaccine scheme to above 16

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen announced plans on Wednesday for a major contract extension for Covid-19 vaccines with Pfizer stretching to 2023.&nbsp;

In a sign of confidence in a company that has been a mainstay of Europe's vaccination drive so far, von der Leyen said the EU will start negotiating to buy 1.8 billion doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine through 2023.&nbsp;

Von der Leyen expressed full confidence in the technology used for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which is different from the technology behind the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.&nbsp;

"We need to focus on the technologies that have proven their worth," von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

Pfizer-BioNTech plans to provide the EU with an extra 50 million dozes in the second quarter of this year, on top of 200 million doses already earmarked for the bloc. The deliveries will be especially welcomed by the EU's 27 member nations considering supply delays and concerns over rare blood clots potentially linked to the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. &nbsp;

Denmark decided on Wednesday not to resume use of AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine after putting it on hold last month following reports of rare blood clots in some recipients. The bulk of the shots given in the Scandinavian country so far have been the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.&nbsp;

The European Commission currently has a portfolio of 2.3 billion doses from a half dozen companies and is negotiating more contracts.&nbsp;

The planned negotiations with Pfizer left in the middle what the EU would do about any new contracts with AstraZeneca, which has had massive delivery problems during the first quarter and expects to send far fewer vaccines than its contract with the EU called for during the second quarter. &nbsp;

The European Commission said in a statement, "We keep all options open to be prepared for the next stages of the pandemic, for 2022 and beyond. We can, however, not comment on contractual issues." Von der Leyen, however, showed her full support for Pfizer-BioNTech, with the announcement for the massive order. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen announced plans on Wednesday for a major contract extension for Covid-19 vaccines with Pfizer stretching to 2023. In a sign of confidence in a company that has been a mainstay of Europe's vaccination drive so far, von der Leyen said the EU will start negotiating to buy 1.

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen announced plans on Wednesday for a major contract extension for Covid-19 vaccines with Pfizer stretching to 2023. In a sign of confidence in a company that has been a mainstay of Europe's vaccination drive so far, von der Leyen said the EU will start negotiating to buy 1.8 billion doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine through 2023. Von der Leyen expressed full confidence in the technology used for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which is different from the technology behind the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. "We need to focus on the technologies that have proven their worth," von der Leyen said. Pfizer-BioNTech plans to provide the EU with an extra 50 million dozes in the second quarter of this year, on top of 200 million doses already earmarked for the bloc. The deliveries will be especially welcomed by the EU's 27 member nations considering supply delays and concerns over rare blood clots potentially linked to the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. Denmark decided on Wednesday not to resume use of AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine after putting it on hold last month following reports of rare blood clots in some recipients. The bulk of the shots given in the Scandinavian country so far have been the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The European Commission currently has a portfolio of 2.3 billion doses from a half dozen companies and is negotiating more contracts. The planned negotiations with Pfizer left in the middle what the EU would do about any new contracts with AstraZeneca, which has had massive delivery problems during the first quarter and expects to send far fewer vaccines than its contract with the EU called for during the second quarter. The European Commission said in a statement, "We keep all options open to be prepared for the next stages of the pandemic, for 2022 and beyond. We can, however, not comment on contractual issues." Von der Leyen, however, showed her full support for Pfizer-BioNTech, with the announcement for the massive order. (With inputs from agencies)

EU looks to buy 1.8 billion doses of Pfizer vaccine through 2023 

Delhi has approved Russia's Sputnik V vaccine for emergency use. It is the third jab in India's arsenal after Covishield and Covaxin but could this have been done earlier?&nbsp;

Sputnik has been approved in 59 countries. Millions of shots have already been administered. What does this say about India's vaccination drive?&nbsp;

A third vaccine to tackle a second wave, India is all set to roll out Russia's Sputnik V. A committee of experts has approved the jab for emergency use. A green light from the national regulator is just a formality now. India has approved two other shots, Covishield manufactured by the Serum Institute and Covaxin developed by Bharat Biotech. The timing of Sputnik's approval is crucial. India is entering the business end of its vaccination drive. Next on the eligibility list is the country's youth. &nbsp;

A mammoth demographic of close to 700 million people. So, a third vaccine will give India an edge but how is Sputnik-V different from Covishield and Covaxin?&nbsp;

Sputnik-V has a reported efficacy of 91.6 per cent. Covishield's latest efficacy number is 79% and for Covaxin it's 81% but experts say don't get carried away by efficacy numbers. &nbsp;

Remember, all vaccines are intended to prevent hospitalisation and death not the disease itself. What about the cost? &nbsp;

Sputnik is priced at less than 10 dollars. It can be stored in conventional refrigerators and much like Covishield and Covaxin, it is administered in two doses. Ideally, they should be 21 days apart.&nbsp;

The Russian developers have signed multiple deals to produce in India. 200 million doses with Virchow Biotech and Stelis Biopharma. 100 million more from Panacea Biotec. Combined, India has the capacity to produce 850 million Sputnik doses per year. &nbsp;

For Indian regulators, it is expected to be a busy couple of months. Four more vaccine candidates are waiting in line, Johnson and Johnson, Novavax, Zydus Cadila's vaccine and Bharat Biotech's intranasal vaccine. Reports say they could all get approval by October 2021.&nbsp;

What's driving this slew of approvals? Fear of shortages. The world's pharmacy is running out of jabs. India is producing around 70 million doses per month but India's daily vaccination rate is 3.5 million. That's more than 105 million shots a month. The equation is simple. India needs 100 million doses but it is producing only 70 million.&nbsp;

India has three options here. One, to spend public money to boost private production. The Serum Institute wants 3,000 crore rupees to expand capacity. The government could oblige. &nbsp;

Number two, approve more vaccines like Sputnik-V. And number three, rope in more vaccine manufacturing centres. We're talking about private labs and factories dedicated to other vaccines.&nbsp;

This call must be taken by the producers. There is a fourth more drastic option to ban vaccine exports, the global north has already done this. There is domestic pressure to freeze exports but India is keen to fulfil its global commitments. India's policy was flawed to begin with. Two vaccines for 1.2 billion people were never going to work. The vaccine gifts and exports were added pressure. New Delhi got humanitarianism and politics right, the arithmetic not so much.&nbsp;

Delhi has approved Russia's Sputnik V vaccine for emergency use. It is the third jab in India's arsenal after Covishield and Covaxin but could this have been done earlier?

Delhi has approved Russia's Sputnik V vaccine for emergency use. It is the third jab in India's arsenal after Covishield and Covaxin but could this have been done earlier? Sputnik has been approved in 59 countries. Millions of shots have already been administered. What does this say about India's vaccination drive? A third vaccine to tackle a second wave, India is all set to roll out Russia's Sputnik V. A committee of experts has approved the jab for emergency use. A green light from the national regulator is just a formality now. India has approved two other shots, Covishield manufactured by the Serum Institute and Covaxin developed by Bharat Biotech. The timing of Sputnik's approval is crucial. India is entering the business end of its vaccination drive. Next on the eligibility list is the country's youth. A mammoth demographic of close to 700 million people. So, a third vaccine will give India an edge but how is Sputnik-V different from Covishield and Covaxin? Sputnik-V has a reported efficacy of 91.6 per cent. Covishield's latest efficacy number is 79% and for Covaxin it's 81% but experts say don't get carried away by efficacy numbers. Remember, all vaccines are intended to prevent hospitalisation and death not the disease itself. What about the cost? Sputnik is priced at less than 10 dollars. It can be stored in conventional refrigerators and much like Covishield and Covaxin, it is administered in two doses. Ideally, they should be 21 days apart. The Russian developers have signed multiple deals to produce in India. 200 million doses with Virchow Biotech and Stelis Biopharma. 100 million more from Panacea Biotec. Combined, India has the capacity to produce 850 million Sputnik doses per year. For Indian regulators, it is expected to be a busy couple of months. Four more vaccine candidates are waiting in line, Johnson and Johnson, Novavax, Zydus Cadila's vaccine and Bharat Biotech's intranasal vaccine. Reports say they could all get approval by October 2021. What's driving this slew of approvals? Fear of shortages. The world's pharmacy is running out of jabs. India is producing around 70 million doses per month but India's daily vaccination rate is 3.5 million. That's more than 105 million shots a month. The equation is simple. India needs 100 million doses but it is producing only 70 million. India has three options here. One, to spend public money to boost private production. The Serum Institute wants 3,000 crore rupees to expand capacity. The government could oblige. Number two, approve more vaccines like Sputnik-V. And number three, rope in more vaccine manufacturing centres. We're talking about private labs and factories dedicated to other vaccines. This call must be taken by the producers. There is a fourth more drastic option to ban vaccine exports, the global north has already done this. There is domestic pressure to freeze exports but India is keen to fulfil its global commitments. India's policy was flawed to begin with. Two vaccines for 1.2 billion people were never going to work. The vaccine gifts and exports were added pressure. New Delhi got humanitarianism and politics right, the arithmetic not so much.

India looks to tackle second wave successfully as Sputnik V jab gets nod

Bhutan has become the first country in the world to administer the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to almost all its eligible population.

Bhutan's swift vaccination campaign is nearly finished — just 16 days after it began.

The tiny Himalayan kingdom wedged between India and China has vaccinated nearly 85% of its adult population since March 27. Overall, the country has vaccinated 62% of its 800,000 people.

According to a report by The Economist, only Israel (95.1%) and Seychelles (94.1%) have vaccinated a higher percentage of adults, but in months.

Bhutan started its vaccination drive on March 27 with Ninda Dema, a 30-year-old woman born in the year of the Monkey as per Buddhist astrology. She became the country’s first to receive the shot at a school-turned vaccination centre in the capital Thimphu, an event that was televised live.

Ninda, a bureaucrat, folded the sleeve of her jacket and pressed her palms in a traditional gesture of greetings and prayers as she received the dose from a masked nurse amid lighting of butter lamps and chanting of Buddhist prayers. The nurse was also born in the same year of the Monkey.

Buddist years are named after 12 animals like goat, rooster, pig and religious followers believe that people born in the year of the Monkey are inventive and can solve even the most difficult problems rather easily.

A country of about 800,000 people Bhutan received 150,000 doses of the vaccine manufactured by the Serum Institute of India in January. But unlike neighbouring Nepal that has suspended the campaign due to the lack of vaccines, authorities in Bhutan waited for 400,000 more shots that were provided this month to begin the campaign in one go.

The scenic country, which is heavily dependent on high-end tourists, is famous for its “gross national happiness” index as an alternative to gross domestic product to indicate real economic progress or development.

The country has recorded 896 Covid-19 infections and one death so far.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bhutan has become the first country in the world to administer the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to almost all its eligible population. Bhutan's swift vaccination campaign is nearly finished — just 16 days after it began.

Bhutan has become the first country in the world to administer the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to almost all its eligible population. Bhutan's swift vaccination campaign is nearly finished — just 16 days after it began. The tiny Himalayan kingdom wedged between India and China has vaccinated nearly 85% of its adult population since March 27. Overall, the country has vaccinated 62% of its 800,000 people. According to a report by The Economist, only Israel (95.1%) and Seychelles (94.1%) have vaccinated a higher percentage of adults, but in months. Bhutan started its vaccination drive on March 27 with Ninda Dema, a 30-year-old woman born in the year of the Monkey as per Buddhist astrology. She became the country’s first to receive the shot at a school-turned vaccination centre in the capital Thimphu, an event that was televised live. Ninda, a bureaucrat, folded the sleeve of her jacket and pressed her palms in a traditional gesture of greetings and prayers as she received the dose from a masked nurse amid lighting of butter lamps and chanting of Buddhist prayers. The nurse was also born in the same year of the Monkey. Buddist years are named after 12 animals like goat, rooster, pig and religious followers believe that people born in the year of the Monkey are inventive and can solve even the most difficult problems rather easily. A country of about 800,000 people Bhutan received 150,000 doses of the vaccine manufactured by the Serum Institute of India in January. But unlike neighbouring Nepal that has suspended the campaign due to the lack of vaccines, authorities in Bhutan waited for 400,000 more shots that were provided this month to begin the campaign in one go. The scenic country, which is heavily dependent on high-end tourists, is famous for its “gross national happiness” index as an alternative to gross domestic product to indicate real economic progress or development. The country has recorded 896 Covid-19 infections and one death so far. (With inputs from agencies)

Bhutan vaccinates 85% of the population in record time

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

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

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

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

India has become the world's fastest nation to vaccinate nearly 100 million people against COVID-19. The country has achieved this milestone in just 85 days.

India: Fastest nation to administer 100 vaccine jabs

Johnson & Johnson is in talks with India’s government to begin a clinical trial of its single-dose COVID-19 vaccine in the country.

J&J's single-dose vaccine trial in India?

India has become the fastest country to administer 100 million coronavirus vaccine doses as per numbers with India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses, India took just 85 days. This is a major feat as the US and China took 89 and 102 days respectively to reach the 100 million mark.

The development is sure to give a further boost to India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic even as a spike in number of infections has been seen in recent days.

A country of more than a billion people, India faces a big task as it vaccinates its population.

Frontline workers, citizens aged 60 and above as well as those aged 45 years and above (with comorbidities) have been given preference in the initial stages of India's coronavirus vaccination drive.

The need for redoubled efforts in the fight against the pandemic was felt on Saturday as more than 100 thousand new coronavirus cases were reported across India. The death toll was up too.

As per the health ministry data, death toll rose by 794 to a total of 168,436.

Most cases have been detected in the western state of Maharashtra. The state has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages.

The weekend lockdown will end on Monday.

India has become the fastest country to administer 100 million coronavirus vaccine doses as per numbers with India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses, India took just 85 days.

India has become the fastest country to administer 100 million coronavirus vaccine doses as per numbers with India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses, India took just 85 days. This is a major feat as the US and China took 89 and 102 days respectively to reach the 100 million mark. The development is sure to give a further boost to India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic even as a spike in number of infections has been seen in recent days. A country of more than a billion people, India faces a big task as it vaccinates its population. Frontline workers, citizens aged 60 and above as well as those aged 45 years and above (with comorbidities) have been given preference in the initial stages of India's coronavirus vaccination drive. The need for redoubled efforts in the fight against the pandemic was felt on Saturday as more than 100 thousand new coronavirus cases were reported across India. The death toll was up too. As per the health ministry data, death toll rose by 794 to a total of 168,436. Most cases have been detected in the western state of Maharashtra. The state has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages. The weekend lockdown will end on Monday.

India fastest to administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses

Coronavirus numbers in India and the world aren't looking good. More than 126 thousand infections have been recorded in India in last 24 hours. Worldover, more than 500 thousand people have tested positive every day in the last seven days. This is an average number. Brazil and India are the new hotspots. Two factors are causing spike in infections. One, the virus variants. Two, massive global shortage of vaccines. China is emerging as a winner in this situation.

As the vaccine shortage makes countries desperate, they are buying China's unproven vaccines by millions. As if overnight, china has become --- the biggest producer and exporter of Wuhan virus vaccines.

Coronavirus is no longer the same. It is mutating and taking many forms. Some of these variants are more infectious. The Wuhan virus had mutated more than 12000 times by November 2020. Most of these mutations are unremarkable but some are serious. Experts are tracking four of them.

The first one is called the Brazil variant. Scientists call this 'P1' It was first identified in the Amazonian city of Manaus in December 2020. Now it's the dominant strain in brazil. There is no evidence that this variant make a patient more unwell, but it does spread faster.

On Thursday (April 8) Brazil recorded more than four thousand Wuhan virus deaths in a single day.

The next variant is the UK variant. Scientists call it "B1.1.7". It was first detected in the UK in September last year. At that time it was seen in just one out of four patients.

By December, almost two-thirds of the new cases in London were of this strain.

Countries started imposing travel bans on the UK. That did not stop the spread. Now the variant is found on all major continents. Then we have the south Africa variant.

This too, has spread to a number of countries. Experts believe vaccines are less effective against the South African strain. And fourth one is called the 'Double mutant'

This variant was found in India recently in samples from Maharastra, Delhi and Punjab. This virus is called a double mutant because the variant carries two mutations

This allows the virus to evade body's immune system. It could be resistant to antibodies.

So even those who have recovered might catch the Wuhan virus again. That could also mean weaker immunity from existing vaccines.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-serious-are-side-effects-of-covid-vaccines-376186">How serious are side effects of COVID vaccines?</a>

So there are four serious mutations of the virus. And all four types have been found in India.

Is that why the cases are shooting up? It can't be said for sure.

That's because Indian authorities are reportedly not testing enough for newer strains. According to a report India has tested less than one percent of its positive samples for variants.

In comparison, the UK Has sequenced eight percent of infections. And 33 percent in just the last week. So we simply don't know how the new strains are behaving in India.

The experts have maintained so far that the vaccine work against the new strains. But there aren't enough vaccines.

The EU decided to curb vaccine exports for six weeks.

Yesterday, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison complained about supply shortages from Europe.

In America, there is a shortage of the Johnson and Johnson shot. Several cities are bracing for a supply disruption.

Same with the UK. It has begun using the Moderna vaccine now. That's because the rollout of other shots has dropped to the lowest level this year. There's a supply crunch at Astrazeneca.

It has been caused by manufacturing problems in the company. &nbsp;

Astrazeneca had struck a deal with India's Serum Institute to make the Oxford vaccine here

So AstraZeneca was relying on the Serum Institute for supplies. Now it has sent a legal notice to its Indian partner. AstraZeneca is blaming the Serum Institute for supply delays. Also complaining of supply delay are some Indian states.

They say the Astrazeneca vaccine or Covishield is not available in enough quantities. It is one of the two vaccines approved for use in India. The govt of India has already placed a temporary hold on all exports of the vaccine. It says complaints of shortages in India are unfounded. The health minister of India shared these figures.

He says there are enough vaccines to go around in India. For the rest of the world though, the shortage is serious.

China knows that governments are desperate. They will lap up vaccines, even if the efficacy is questionable.

And that's exactly what's happening. Reports say 70 countries and territories have either approved Chinese shots or struck deals to secure them.

Beijing has even donated shots to 37 countries. China has produced 230 million doses. By March it had exported more than 100 million shots. In comparison, India has exported 63 million doses to 84 countries.

And the European Union has exported 58 million doses. What about the rest of the developed world?

They don't believe in sharing. They're busy inoculating their own citizens first.

The result is this, China with unproven shots is leading the exports of Wuhan virus vaccines.

Coronavirus numbers in India and the world aren't looking good. More than 126 thousand infections have been recorded in India in last 24 hours. Worldover, more than 500 thousand people have tested positive every day in the last seven days.

Coronavirus numbers in India and the world aren't looking good. More than 126 thousand infections have been recorded in India in last 24 hours. Worldover, more than 500 thousand people have tested positive every day in the last seven days. This is an average number. Brazil and India are the new hotspots. Two factors are causing spike in infections. One, the virus variants. Two, massive global shortage of vaccines. China is emerging as a winner in this situation. As the vaccine shortage makes countries desperate, they are buying China's unproven vaccines by millions. As if overnight, china has become --- the biggest producer and exporter of Wuhan virus vaccines. Coronavirus is no longer the same. It is mutating and taking many forms. Some of these variants are more infectious. The Wuhan virus had mutated more than 12000 times by November 2020. Most of these mutations are unremarkable but some are serious. Experts are tracking four of them. The first one is called the Brazil variant. Scientists call this 'P1' It was first identified in the Amazonian city of Manaus in December 2020. Now it's the dominant strain in brazil. There is no evidence that this variant make a patient more unwell, but it does spread faster. On Thursday (April 8) Brazil recorded more than four thousand Wuhan virus deaths in a single day. The next variant is the UK variant. Scientists call it "B1.1.7". It was first detected in the UK in September last year. At that time it was seen in just one out of four patients. By December, almost two-thirds of the new cases in London were of this strain. Countries started imposing travel bans on the UK. That did not stop the spread. Now the variant is found on all major continents. Then we have the south Africa variant. This too, has spread to a number of countries. Experts believe vaccines are less effective against the South African strain. And fourth one is called the 'Double mutant' This variant was found in India recently in samples from Maharastra, Delhi and Punjab. This virus is called a double mutant because the variant carries two mutations This allows the virus to evade body's immune system. It could be resistant to antibodies. So even those who have recovered might catch the Wuhan virus again. That could also mean weaker immunity from existing vaccines. Also Read | How serious are side effects of COVID vaccines? So there are four serious mutations of the virus. And all four types have been found in India. Is that why the cases are shooting up? It can't be said for sure. That's because Indian authorities are reportedly not testing enough for newer strains. According to a report India has tested less than one percent of its positive samples for variants. In comparison, the UK Has sequenced eight percent of infections. And 33 percent in just the last week. So we simply don't know how the new strains are behaving in India. The experts have maintained so far that the vaccine work against the new strains. But there aren't enough vaccines. The EU decided to curb vaccine exports for six weeks. Yesterday, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison complained about supply shortages from Europe. In America, there is a shortage of the Johnson and Johnson shot. Several cities are bracing for a supply disruption. Same with the UK. It has begun using the Moderna vaccine now. That's because the rollout of other shots has dropped to the lowest level this year. There's a supply crunch at Astrazeneca. It has been caused by manufacturing problems in the company. Astrazeneca had struck a deal with India's Serum Institute to make the Oxford vaccine here So AstraZeneca was relying on the Serum Institute for supplies. Now it has sent a legal notice to its Indian partner. AstraZeneca is blaming the Serum Institute for supply delays. Also complaining of supply delay are some Indian states. They say the Astrazeneca vaccine or Covishield is not available in enough quantities. It is one of the two vaccines approved for use in India. The govt of India has already placed a temporary hold on all exports of the vaccine. It says complaints of shortages in India are unfounded. The health minister of India shared these figures. He says there are enough vaccines to go around in India. For the rest of the world though, the shortage is serious. China knows that governments are desperate. They will lap up vaccines, even if the efficacy is questionable. And that's exactly what's happening. Reports say 70 countries and territories have either approved Chinese shots or struck deals to secure them. Beijing has even donated shots to 37 countries. China has produced 230 million doses. By March it had exported more than 100 million shots. In comparison, India has exported 63 million doses to 84 countries. And the European Union has exported 58 million doses. What about the rest of the developed world? They don't believe in sharing. They're busy inoculating their own citizens first. The result is this, China with unproven shots is leading the exports of Wuhan virus vaccines.

Countries buy China's unproven vaccines by millions

The conversation around the Wuhan virus keeps evolving from masks to lockdowns to vaccines. The big debate now is about side effects. How serious are they?

Do the benefits still outweigh the risks? The answer may depend on where one lives.

Multiple reports have linked AstraZeneca vaccine to blood clots. The European regulator has confirmed this. Blood clots have been listed as a rare side effect.

The EU member states are free to decide for themselves whether to continue the rollout or stop it.

The Astrazeneca vaccine is still humanity's best bet against the virus. It is cheap it is easy to store and it is easy to transport. Yes, there could be a causal link between clots and the vaccine.

But the benefits still outweigh the risks. If it's a toss-up between a blood clot and the Wuhan virus, the expert opinion is clear. The virus is much deadlier. The risk of infection is much more potent.

But it doesn't take much for the world to panic nowadays. And after last year it is difficult not to.

Vaccines are already in short supply. Some countries are yet to get shipments. A global wave of vaccine hesitancy is the last thing we need. So how do we navigate this?

The World Health Organisation has a huge role to play. The WHO says the blood clot link is plausible, but not confirmed. So there's still a question mark. An expert committee will meet next week to review the data.

If the WHO makes the right noises. There is still hope for AstraZeneca. Because right now countries are pandering to the hysteria.

Italy has limited the vaccine to people above 60 years. Britain is offering alternative jabs to below 30s. So you can get a Pfizer or Moderna shot instead of AstraZeneca in the UK.

This is the first time Britain has waivered. In Spain the jab will be available only for those aged 60o and above. But across the Atlantic, in Latin America, both, Mexico and Brazil plan to stick with the current policy.

Australia and the Philippines are also imposing limits. People below 50 cannot get the Astrazeneca jab in Australia. And in the Philippines, the limit is 60 years.

The bottom line is this, there is no universal policy on the AstraZeneca vaccine. It's every nation for itself. But what about the other vaccines in the market? Are they foolproof?

Side effects are universal, all medicines trigger unwanted reactions. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are no different.

These are the common side effects listed by the US CDC (Centre for disease control)

Tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever and nausea. Some of these cases were serious. In the US the first few weeks saw multiple cases of severe allergic reactions including Anaphylaxis.

In rare cases, this can cause your windpipe to swell up, cutting off your oxygen supply.

It's a life-threatening condition. Pfizer and Moderna are yet to be subjected to AstraZeneca's level of scrutiny. But that could change in the coming weeks. Because the US Has launched a new clinical trial.

It targets are Moderna and Pfizer. 3400 adults will be part of the trial. The results are expected at the end of summer.

But here's the catch.

America would have administered millions of doses by the time the results are out. So in effect, this is a retrospective study.

Another question is. Why is there sudden furore over side effects? They've existed as long as medicine itself. In most cases society ignores them looking at the greater good.

The most striking example is the birth control pill.

Side effects of the birth control pill include weight gain, depression, mood swings and also, blood clots.

So where is Britain's alternative for the birth control pill? Will Australia, Italy and others ban their use? It is unlikely.

The conversation around AstraZeneca must be rooted in Science. Governments must listen to scientists.

The conversation around the Wuhan virus keeps evolving from masks to lockdowns to vaccines. The big debate now is about side effects. How serious are they? Do the benefits still outweigh the risks?

The conversation around the Wuhan virus keeps evolving from masks to lockdowns to vaccines. The big debate now is about side effects. How serious are they? Do the benefits still outweigh the risks? The answer may depend on where one lives. Multiple reports have linked AstraZeneca vaccine to blood clots. The European regulator has confirmed this. Blood clots have been listed as a rare side effect. The EU member states are free to decide for themselves whether to continue the rollout or stop it. The Astrazeneca vaccine is still humanity's best bet against the virus. It is cheap it is easy to store and it is easy to transport. Yes, there could be a causal link between clots and the vaccine. But the benefits still outweigh the risks. If it's a toss-up between a blood clot and the Wuhan virus, the expert opinion is clear. The virus is much deadlier. The risk of infection is much more potent. But it doesn't take much for the world to panic nowadays. And after last year it is difficult not to. Vaccines are already in short supply. Some countries are yet to get shipments. A global wave of vaccine hesitancy is the last thing we need. So how do we navigate this? The World Health Organisation has a huge role to play. The WHO says the blood clot link is plausible, but not confirmed. So there's still a question mark. An expert committee will meet next week to review the data. If the WHO makes the right noises. There is still hope for AstraZeneca. Because right now countries are pandering to the hysteria. Italy has limited the vaccine to people above 60 years. Britain is offering alternative jabs to below 30s. So you can get a Pfizer or Moderna shot instead of AstraZeneca in the UK. This is the first time Britain has waivered. In Spain the jab will be available only for those aged 60o and above. But across the Atlantic, in Latin America, both, Mexico and Brazil plan to stick with the current policy. Australia and the Philippines are also imposing limits. People below 50 cannot get the Astrazeneca jab in Australia. And in the Philippines, the limit is 60 years. The bottom line is this, there is no universal policy on the AstraZeneca vaccine. It's every nation for itself. But what about the other vaccines in the market? Are they foolproof? Side effects are universal, all medicines trigger unwanted reactions. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are no different. These are the common side effects listed by the US CDC (Centre for disease control) Tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever and nausea. Some of these cases were serious. In the US the first few weeks saw multiple cases of severe allergic reactions including Anaphylaxis. In rare cases, this can cause your windpipe to swell up, cutting off your oxygen supply. It's a life-threatening condition. Pfizer and Moderna are yet to be subjected to AstraZeneca's level of scrutiny. But that could change in the coming weeks. Because the US Has launched a new clinical trial. It targets are Moderna and Pfizer. 3400 adults will be part of the trial. The results are expected at the end of summer. But here's the catch. America would have administered millions of doses by the time the results are out. So in effect, this is a retrospective study. Another question is. Why is there sudden furore over side effects? They've existed as long as medicine itself. In most cases society ignores them looking at the greater good. The most striking example is the birth control pill. Side effects of the birth control pill include weight gain, depression, mood swings and also, blood clots. So where is Britain's alternative for the birth control pill? Will Australia, Italy and others ban their use? It is unlikely. The conversation around AstraZeneca must be rooted in Science. Governments must listen to scientists.

How serious are side effects of COVID vaccines?

Who should be given vaccines first? Prioritising the elderly and health workers may not have helped. Younger people with co-morbidities are still at risk, and now children are being hit by the second wave.

Gravitas: Time to rethink vaccination models?

Pakistan approved the emergency use of the third Chinese vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate, on Thursday.Citing officials, Geo News reported that the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to another Chinese vaccine, CoronaVac.

Earlier, Pakistan had granted the EUA to China`s two-dose Sinopharm and single-dose Convidecia vaccine developed by the Cansino Biologicals Inc.This would be the fifth coronavirus vaccine and the third Chinese vaccine to be used in Pakistan.&nbsp;

UK`s AstraZeneca and Russian Sputnik V vaccines have also been approved by the DRAP. According to the report, the CoronaVac vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate was allowed by the health authorities to counter the third wave of the pandemic in Pakistan, reported Geo News. Meanwhile, two Chinese and one Russian vaccine are being used in the public and private sectors.

Pakistan is also expecting the AstraZeneca vaccine under the COVAX programme. Meanwhile, the third wave of coronavirus has killed 105 more people in Pakistan in the last 24 hours, taking the national death tally to 15,229.Citing National Command and Operations Centre`s (NCOC) official data, Geo News reported that about 5,312 new cases emerged in the country with the total tally now recorded at 710,829 as of today.

Pakistan approved the emergency use of the third Chinese vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate, on Thursday.Citing officials, Geo News reported that the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to another Chinese vaccine, CoronaVac.

Pakistan approved the emergency use of the third Chinese vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate, on Thursday.Citing officials, Geo News reported that the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to another Chinese vaccine, CoronaVac. Earlier, Pakistan had granted the EUA to China`s two-dose Sinopharm and single-dose Convidecia vaccine developed by the Cansino Biologicals Inc.This would be the fifth coronavirus vaccine and the third Chinese vaccine to be used in Pakistan. UK`s AstraZeneca and Russian Sputnik V vaccines have also been approved by the DRAP. According to the report, the CoronaVac vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate was allowed by the health authorities to counter the third wave of the pandemic in Pakistan, reported Geo News. Meanwhile, two Chinese and one Russian vaccine are being used in the public and private sectors. Pakistan is also expecting the AstraZeneca vaccine under the COVAX programme. Meanwhile, the third wave of coronavirus has killed 105 more people in Pakistan in the last 24 hours, taking the national death tally to 15,229.Citing National Command and Operations Centre`s (NCOC) official data, Geo News reported that about 5,312 new cases emerged in the country with the total tally now recorded at 710,829 as of today.

Pakistan approves emergency use of third Chinese COVID vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate

More than 20 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine made by the British-Swedish company AstraZeneca are sitting idly in America.

The British-Swedish company has yet to request Food and Drug Administration authorization for the two-dose vaccine, and the company faces safety questions abroad and scrutiny from U.S. regulators.

According to reports, some senior administration officials believe that the administration should let them go abroad where they are desperately needed while others are not ready to relinquish them.

Meanwhile, The U.S. administered an average of 3.1 million Covid-19 shots per day over the last seven days and hit a new record over the weekend with more than 4 million shots administered in a single day as vaccine manufacturing picks up the pace and more mass vaccination sites open.

The pandemic has now killed more than 2.8 million people worldwide, upended economies and lifestyles everywhere and puts huge pressure on health care systems.

And on a global scale, it has not yet abated, despite more than 660 million shots having been administered worldwide.

In an annual report, Wednesday Amnesty International said that richer countries are failing a "rudimentary" test of global solidarity by hoarding Covid vaccines, "leaving countries with the fewest resources to face the worst health and human rights outcomes."

Hard-hit Brazil registered 4,195 deaths from the virus Tuesday, in the deadliest day of the pandemic yet for a country whose total reported toll is now nearly 337,000, second only to the United States.

Elsewhere in Latin America, Argentina notched a record high new daily cases with 20,870 infections, and across the border, in Chile, a coronavirus surge forced President Sebastian Pinera to postpone an election to choose a commission to rewrite the country's constitution.

Meanwhile, India, a vaccine-producing powerhouse, is struggling to contain a record surge in daily infections.

New Delhi on Tuesday imposed an immediate nighttime curfew, and financial hub Mumbai imposed similar measures.

A rare breakthrough in reopening international travel occurred however when Australia and New Zealand -- both largely free of the coronavirus -- announced a two-way, quarantine-free travel corridor starting April 18.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 20 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine made by the British-Swedish company AstraZeneca are sitting idly in America. The British-Swedish company has yet to request Food and Drug Administration authorization for the two-dose vaccine, and the company faces safety questions abroad and scrutiny from U.

More than 20 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine made by the British-Swedish company AstraZeneca are sitting idly in America. The British-Swedish company has yet to request Food and Drug Administration authorization for the two-dose vaccine, and the company faces safety questions abroad and scrutiny from U.S. regulators. According to reports, some senior administration officials believe that the administration should let them go abroad where they are desperately needed while others are not ready to relinquish them. Meanwhile, The U.S. administered an average of 3.1 million Covid-19 shots per day over the last seven days and hit a new record over the weekend with more than 4 million shots administered in a single day as vaccine manufacturing picks up the pace and more mass vaccination sites open. The pandemic has now killed more than 2.8 million people worldwide, upended economies and lifestyles everywhere and puts huge pressure on health care systems. And on a global scale, it has not yet abated, despite more than 660 million shots having been administered worldwide. In an annual report, Wednesday Amnesty International said that richer countries are failing a "rudimentary" test of global solidarity by hoarding Covid vaccines, "leaving countries with the fewest resources to face the worst health and human rights outcomes." Hard-hit Brazil registered 4,195 deaths from the virus Tuesday, in the deadliest day of the pandemic yet for a country whose total reported toll is now nearly 337,000, second only to the United States. Elsewhere in Latin America, Argentina notched a record high new daily cases with 20,870 infections, and across the border, in Chile, a coronavirus surge forced President Sebastian Pinera to postpone an election to choose a commission to rewrite the country's constitution. Meanwhile, India, a vaccine-producing powerhouse, is struggling to contain a record surge in daily infections. New Delhi on Tuesday imposed an immediate nighttime curfew, and financial hub Mumbai imposed similar measures. A rare breakthrough in reopening international travel occurred however when Australia and New Zealand -- both largely free of the coronavirus -- announced a two-way, quarantine-free travel corridor starting April 18. (With inputs from agencies)

US is sitting on 20 million of vaccine doses the world needs

vaccine

Vaccine, News on Vaccine, stories on Vaccine, articles on Vaccine, Vaccine stories at Wion, Vaccine news, Vaccine latest news