Israel has approved Covid-19 vaccines for children from the age of five, the country's 9.4 million population is relatively young with around 1.2 million children in the age bracket of 5-11 years. Meanwhile, health officials have sounded an alarm and expressed concern as countries could reach the third wave without kids being vaccinated.

Israel approves covid shot for children, paves way for new inoculation drive

The efficacy analysis data from Phase III clinical trials of Bharat Biotech's Covid vaccine, Covaxin, has now been peer-reviewed and ‘confirms’ the India-made dose to be 77.

The efficacy analysis data from Phase III clinical trials of Bharat Biotech's Covid vaccine, Covaxin, has now been peer-reviewed and ‘confirms’ the India-made dose to be 77.8% effective. The data has been published in Lancet journal. The company had earlier stated that its vaccine had 77.8 per cent efficacy against symptomatic cases and 93.4 per cent against severe symptomatic cases. According to the study, efficacy data shows that the vaccine demonstrates 63.6 per cent protection against asymptomatic disease and 65.2 per cent protection against the B.1.617.2 Delta variant. “The peer-review of Covaxin phase III clinical trial data in The Lancet, an authoritative voice in global medicine, validates our commitment to data transparency and meeting the stringent peer-review standards of world leading medical journals,'' Krishana Ella, Chairman and Managing Director, Bharat Biotech said in a release. Also read | Booster dose to be taken 6 months after Covaxin's 2nd dose: Bharat Biotech CMD He further added, "The data from our product development and clinical trials have been published in 10 peer-reviewed journals, making Covaxin one of the most highly published Covid-19 vaccines in the world." In what has been deemed as India’s largest-ever clinical trial conducted for a Covid-19 vaccine, the phase 3 trial involved 25,800 volunteers across 25 sites. Meanwhile, Krishna Ella recently confirmed that a booster dose can be considered six months after receiving the second dose of the vaccine. He further added that the final decision is with the government. He further highlighted that the nasal COVID-19 vaccine is being developed by Bharat Biotech. Also, it could be taken instead of the second dose of Covaxin. Also read | India's Covaxin to be added to UK approved list from November 22 Meanwhile, recently, the Technical Advisory Group (TAG), an independent advisory council of the World Health Organization (WHO), recommended that Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin be given Emergency Use Listing (EUL) designation. The TAG had requested "further clarifications" from the firm on October 26 for Covaxin to undertake a final "risk-benefit assessment" for the vaccine's Emergency Use Listing. (With agency inputs)

India-made Covid vaccine Covaxin is 77.8% effective, says data published in Lancet journal

In order to battle the deadly coronavirus, several countries across the globe have started inoculating the population with booster shots. Covaxin manufacturer, Bharat Biotech CMD Krishna Ella said that a booster dose can be considered six months after receiving the second dose of the vaccine.&nbsp;He further added that the final decision is with the government.&nbsp;

While speaking at the Times Now Summit 2021, he added that the government and some experts think that a booster dose is not so urgent. Also, full vaccination with two doses is a priority right now.

He further highlighted that the nasal COVID-19 vaccine is being developed by Bharat Biotech. Also, it could be taken instead of the second dose of Covaxin.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-covaxin-to-be-added-to-uk-approved-list-from-november-22-427884">Also read |&nbsp;India's Covaxin to be added to UK approved list from November 22</a>

He further mentioned that the nasal vaccine was more effective in preventing the virus from spreading.

Meanwhile, recently, the Technical Advisory Group (TAG), an independent advisory council of the World Health Organization (WHO), recommended that Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin be given Emergency Use Listing (EUL) designation.

The TAG had requested "further clarifications" from the firm on October 26 for Covaxin to undertake a final "risk-benefit assessment" for the vaccine's Emergency Use Listing.&nbsp;

Covaxin is effective against symptomatic COVID-19 at 77.8 per cent and 65.2 per cent against the novel Delta variant. The company announced in June that it has completed the analysis of effectiveness of Covaxin&nbsp;from Phase 3 studies.

In order to battle the deadly coronavirus, several countries across the globe have started inoculating the population with booster shots. Covaxin manufacturer, Bharat Biotech CMD Krishna Ella said that a booster dose can be considered six months after receiving the second dose of the vaccine.

In order to battle the deadly coronavirus, several countries across the globe have started inoculating the population with booster shots. Covaxin manufacturer, Bharat Biotech CMD Krishna Ella said that a booster dose can be considered six months after receiving the second dose of the vaccine. He further added that the final decision is with the government. While speaking at the Times Now Summit 2021, he added that the government and some experts think that a booster dose is not so urgent. Also, full vaccination with two doses is a priority right now. He further highlighted that the nasal COVID-19 vaccine is being developed by Bharat Biotech. Also, it could be taken instead of the second dose of Covaxin. Also read | India's Covaxin to be added to UK approved list from November 22 He further mentioned that the nasal vaccine was more effective in preventing the virus from spreading. Meanwhile, recently, the Technical Advisory Group (TAG), an independent advisory council of the World Health Organization (WHO), recommended that Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin be given Emergency Use Listing (EUL) designation. The TAG had requested "further clarifications" from the firm on October 26 for Covaxin to undertake a final "risk-benefit assessment" for the vaccine's Emergency Use Listing. Covaxin is effective against symptomatic COVID-19 at 77.8 per cent and 65.2 per cent against the novel Delta variant. The company announced in June that it has completed the analysis of effectiveness of Covaxin from Phase 3 studies.

Booster dose to be taken 6 months after Covaxin's 2nd dose: Bharat Biotech CMD

An Australian study revealed that those who are completely vaccinated are 16 times less likely to end up in intensive care units (ICU) or die from COVID-19 than those who are not. This is the latest data indicating how vaccinations avert the most dreaded consequences.

According to data compiled by health authorities in New South Wales, Australia's most populous state, nearly 16 out of every 100,000 people who had not received a Covid vaccine ended up in intensive care or died after contracting the virus, compared to fewer than 1 in every 100,000 who were fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

Separately, statistics from Texas, the United States, revealed that unvaccinated persons were 20 times more likely to die from the illness than those who were completely protected.

The findings came from a four-week in-state survey.

According to the study, the risk of mortality was 48 times greater for unvaccinated adults in their 30s and 63 times higher for those in their 40s.&nbsp;

The pandemic's impact on mortality has been mixed.

Last year, life expectancy fell in most locations, knocking 28.1 million years off the total duration in 31 nations.

Residents in a few localities that successfully kept COVID-19 at bay, on the other hand, lived longer.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An Australian study revealed that those who are completely vaccinated are 16 times less likely to end up in intensive care units (ICU) or die from COVID-19 than those who are not.

An Australian study revealed that those who are completely vaccinated are 16 times less likely to end up in intensive care units (ICU) or die from COVID-19 than those who are not. This is the latest data indicating how vaccinations avert the most dreaded consequences. According to data compiled by health authorities in New South Wales, Australia's most populous state, nearly 16 out of every 100,000 people who had not received a Covid vaccine ended up in intensive care or died after contracting the virus, compared to fewer than 1 in every 100,000 who were fully vaccinated. Separately, statistics from Texas, the United States, revealed that unvaccinated persons were 20 times more likely to die from the illness than those who were completely protected. The findings came from a four-week in-state survey. According to the study, the risk of mortality was 48 times greater for unvaccinated adults in their 30s and 63 times higher for those in their 40s. The pandemic's impact on mortality has been mixed. Last year, life expectancy fell in most locations, knocking 28.1 million years off the total duration in 31 nations. Residents in a few localities that successfully kept COVID-19 at bay, on the other hand, lived longer. (With inputs from agencies)

Risk of death from Covid 48 times higher for unvaccinated people: Study

An Australian woman won 1 million Australian dollars (US $744,900) cash just for receiving a COVID-19 vaccine

Covid lottery: Australian woman wins $1mn for getting vaccinated

In what is being termed as the first nationwide campaign in three years, the World Health Organization and the United Nations children's agency have started a polio vaccination campaign in Afghanistan in an attempt to fight the disease.&nbsp;

As per WHO, the campaign is aimed at reaching over 3 million children and has received Taliban backing. It would allow teams to reach children in areas which were inaccessible earlier. According to WHO figures compiled before the Taliban took over Afghanistan, there was one reported case of the one wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in Afghanistan in 2021, compared with 56 in 2020.

Ahmed Al Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, in a statement said, "The urgency with which the Taliban leadership wants the polio campaign to proceed demonstrates a joint commitment to maintain the health system and restart essential immunisations to avert further outbreaks of preventable diseases."&nbsp;

National Emergency Operations Coordinator for the polio programme at Afghanistan's health ministry, Naikwali Shah Momim has highlighted that more training is needed for teams in remote areas. Therefore, the programme would initially start in places such as Kabul.

Afghanistan is one of the last countries in the world with endemic polio. The disease has been virtually eliminated globally through a decades-long inoculation drive.&nbsp;

Several polio workers were killed by gunmen in eastern Afghanistan this year. However, it is not yet clear who was behind the attacks.

Meanwhile, the nation has been struggling to battle poverty as people fear the approach of winter. Various financial institutions suspended their engagement with the country until there was clarity within the international community on the recognition of the government led by the Taliban.

Currently, banks are running out of money, civil servants have not been paid and food prices have surged.&nbsp;

The IMF said that Afghanistan's economy was set to contract up to 30 per cent this year. "Afghanistan is in need of revival on all fronts, and development is the top priority," said Wang.

(With inputs from agencies)

In what is being termed as the first nationwide campaign in three years, the World Health Organization and the United Nations children's agency have started a polio vaccination campaign in Afghanistan in an attempt to fight the disease.

In what is being termed as the first nationwide campaign in three years, the World Health Organization and the United Nations children's agency have started a polio vaccination campaign in Afghanistan in an attempt to fight the disease. As per WHO, the campaign is aimed at reaching over 3 million children and has received Taliban backing. It would allow teams to reach children in areas which were inaccessible earlier. According to WHO figures compiled before the Taliban took over Afghanistan, there was one reported case of the one wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in Afghanistan in 2021, compared with 56 in 2020. Ahmed Al Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, in a statement said, "The urgency with which the Taliban leadership wants the polio campaign to proceed demonstrates a joint commitment to maintain the health system and restart essential immunisations to avert further outbreaks of preventable diseases." National Emergency Operations Coordinator for the polio programme at Afghanistan's health ministry, Naikwali Shah Momim has highlighted that more training is needed for teams in remote areas. Therefore, the programme would initially start in places such as Kabul. Afghanistan is one of the last countries in the world with endemic polio. The disease has been virtually eliminated globally through a decades-long inoculation drive. Several polio workers were killed by gunmen in eastern Afghanistan this year. However, it is not yet clear who was behind the attacks. Meanwhile, the nation has been struggling to battle poverty as people fear the approach of winter. Various financial institutions suspended their engagement with the country until there was clarity within the international community on the recognition of the government led by the Taliban. Currently, banks are running out of money, civil servants have not been paid and food prices have surged. The IMF said that Afghanistan's economy was set to contract up to 30 per cent this year. "Afghanistan is in need of revival on all fronts, and development is the top priority," said Wang. (With inputs from agencies)

'A joint commitment': WHO, UNICEF launch polio vaccine campaign in Afghanistan

In a respite to the protesters against mandatory vaccination, a federal appeals court has halted US President Joe Biden's vaccine mandate for larger businesses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The new development is being seen as a temporary victory for the citizens, who are against the measure. &nbsp;

In the ruling on Saturday, a three-judge panel said petitioners offered significant cause to believe there are "grave statutory and constitutional issues" with the federal order. &nbsp;

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Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who supported the lawsuit, announced an emergency hearing will take place "soon". &nbsp;

In a statement on Twitter, Abbott said, "We will have our day in court to strike down Biden's unconstitutional abuse of authority." &nbsp;

The ruling was praised by some people. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a tweet, "Yesterday, I sued the Biden Admin over its unlawful OSHA vax mandate. WE WON." &nbsp;

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White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the administration is confident that the mandate will hold legal weight in court. &nbsp;

On Thursday, the Biden administration said it was setting a deadline of January 4 for large companies, defined as those with more than 100 employees, to start requiring vaccination against COVID-19 or enforce weekly testing. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a respite to the protesters against mandatory vaccination, a federal appeals court has halted US President Joe Biden's vaccine mandate for larger businesses. The new development is being seen as a temporary victory for the citizens, who are against the measure.

In a respite to the protesters against mandatory vaccination, a federal appeals court has halted US President Joe Biden's vaccine mandate for larger businesses. The new development is being seen as a temporary victory for the citizens, who are against the measure. In the ruling on Saturday, a three-judge panel said petitioners offered significant cause to believe there are "grave statutory and constitutional issues" with the federal order. Also Read: US orders departure of non-essential employees from Ethiopia as war intensifies Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who supported the lawsuit, announced an emergency hearing will take place "soon". In a statement on Twitter, Abbott said, "We will have our day in court to strike down Biden's unconstitutional abuse of authority." The ruling was praised by some people. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a tweet, "Yesterday, I sued the Biden Admin over its unlawful OSHA vax mandate. WE WON." Also Read: Elon Musk proposes to sell 10% of his Tesla stock in Twitter poll White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the administration is confident that the mandate will hold legal weight in court. On Thursday, the Biden administration said it was setting a deadline of January 4 for large companies, defined as those with more than 100 employees, to start requiring vaccination against COVID-19 or enforce weekly testing. (With inputs from agencies)

US federal court temporarily halts President Biden's vaccine mandate   

Was Pfizer's Wuhan Virus vaccine trial compromised? A whistleblower who worked for the company hired to run the trial spotted several lapses. She was allegedly fired after she sent a complaint to US FDA. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Was Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine trial "compromised"?

According to reports, India's Covaxin vaccine has been approved by the WHO for emergency use. The 'made-in-India' vaccine will now be recognized by other nations and Indians who received the jab need not self-quarantine or face covid-19 restrictions. WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal brings all the latest information.

India's Covaxin approved by WHO for emergency use

Recent data shows that the human papillomavirus, or HPV vaccine is helpful in lowering cases of cervical cancer by 90 per cent. Cancer Research UK described the findings as "historic" as this comes as proof that the programme launched in England 13 years ago is saving lives.

As per the research, cervical cancer rates in vaccinated women aged 12 and 13 were 87 per cent lower than in an unvaccinated population. There were reductions in cervical cancer rates by 62 per cent in vaccinated women aged between 14 and 16, and 34 per cent in women aged 16 to 18 when vaccination was introduced.&nbsp;

Prof Peter Sasieni, one of the researchers at King's College London said that the impact has been huge.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-give-yourself-a-hand-queensland-health-aims-to-break-taboos-around-masturbation-426570">Also read |&nbsp;'Give yourself a hand': Queensland Health aims to break taboos around masturbation</a>

The study further estimated the HPV programme has prevented about 450 cancers and 17,200 pre-cancers. Prof Sasieni said that was "just the tip of the iceberg" as the women who were vaccinated were still young to be getting cancer.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist for UKHSA also took part in the study. She was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "We encourage all who are eligible for the HPV vaccine to take it up when it is offered in school. All those eligible can catch up until their 25th birthday. Together with cervical screening, this will help to protect more women from preventable cases of cervical cancer.”

As of now, in the UK, 3,200 cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed every year. The study observed in detail the cancer registry data between January 2006 and June 2019 for a total of seven groups of women who were between the ages of 20 and 64 at the end of 2019.

Recent data shows that the human papillomavirus, or HPV vaccine is helpful in lowering cases of cervical cancer by 90 per cent. Cancer Research UK described the findings as "historic" as this comes as proof that the programme launched in England 13 years ago is saving lives.

Recent data shows that the human papillomavirus, or HPV vaccine is helpful in lowering cases of cervical cancer by 90 per cent. Cancer Research UK described the findings as "historic" as this comes as proof that the programme launched in England 13 years ago is saving lives. As per the research, cervical cancer rates in vaccinated women aged 12 and 13 were 87 per cent lower than in an unvaccinated population. There were reductions in cervical cancer rates by 62 per cent in vaccinated women aged between 14 and 16, and 34 per cent in women aged 16 to 18 when vaccination was introduced. Prof Peter Sasieni, one of the researchers at King's College London said that the impact has been huge. Also read | 'Give yourself a hand': Queensland Health aims to break taboos around masturbation The study further estimated the HPV programme has prevented about 450 cancers and 17,200 pre-cancers. Prof Sasieni said that was "just the tip of the iceberg" as the women who were vaccinated were still young to be getting cancer. Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist for UKHSA also took part in the study. She was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "We encourage all who are eligible for the HPV vaccine to take it up when it is offered in school. All those eligible can catch up until their 25th birthday. Together with cervical screening, this will help to protect more women from preventable cases of cervical cancer.” As of now, in the UK, 3,200 cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed every year. The study observed in detail the cancer registry data between January 2006 and June 2019 for a total of seven groups of women who were between the ages of 20 and 64 at the end of 2019.

'Historic': HPV vaccine lowers cervical cancer rates by 90 per cent, says UK study

Nearly 12,000 United States Air Force personnel have rejected to get fully vaccinated against the coronavirus despite a Pentagon mandate.

12,000 USAF personnel reject Penatgon's vaccine mandate

In what appeared to be first round of fire at G20 Summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin complained about lack of international recognition for its Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine.&nbsp;

"Despite the decisions of the G20, not all countries in need can have access to anti-Covid vaccines," Russian President Vladimir Putin said in video message comments to counterparts that were retransmitted on Russian state television.

"This happens mainly because of dishonest competition, protectionism and because some states, especially those of the G20, are not ready for mutual recognition of vaccines and vaccination certificates," Putin added.

In an apparent reference to the failure of Russia's Sputnik V to win foreign regulatory approval, Putin urged G20 health ministers to discuss the mutual recognition of vaccines and vaccination certificates "as soon as possible".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-kicks-off-in-rome-with-focus-on-climate-covid-and-economy-425330">G20 Summit kicks off in Rome with focus on climate, COVID and economy</a>

South Africa refused recognition to Sputnik V vaccine earlier this month. This was in spite of the country being in dire need of vaccines. South Africa claimed that the Russian vaccine could risk of HIV infection among men.

Sputnik V also lacks regulatory approval in the EU and the US.

Chinese President Xi Jinping -- who, like Putin did not travel to Rome for the summit and participated by video link -- made a similar call for the mutual recognition of vaccines, according to Chinese state media.&nbsp;

Rising cases

Putin and Xi were said to have avoided travelling to Italy due to tightening coronavirus restrictions in their home countries.&nbsp;

Russia has seen increased coronavirus cases in spite of increased availability of Spuynik jabs. Putin has ordered a week-long holiday starting Saturday with an aim to contain spread of the virus.

Russian authorities said Saturday that daily infection numbers had risen to 40,251, a record since the start of the pandemic, with only 32.5 percent of the population fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

Pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pics-pm-modi-joins-world-leaders-for-g20-summit-in-rome-425321">PM Modi joins world leaders for G20 summit in Rome</a>

At the G20, summit host and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi said the international community was "very close to meeting the WHO’s target of vaccinating 40 percent of the global population by the end of 2021".&nbsp;

"Now we must do all we can to reach 70 percent by mid-2022," he added.

According to a source quoted by Reuters, "all the leaders" agreed to commit to the target set out by Draghi.&nbsp;

The Italian premier noted that while more than 70 percent of people in developed countries have received at least one dose of the Covid vaccine, the percentage drops to around three percent in the poorest parts of the world. &nbsp;

"These differences are morally unacceptable, and undermine the global recovery," he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In what appeared to be first round of fire at G20 Summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin complained about lack of international recognition for its Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine.

In what appeared to be first round of fire at G20 Summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin complained about lack of international recognition for its Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine. "Despite the decisions of the G20, not all countries in need can have access to anti-Covid vaccines," Russian President Vladimir Putin said in video message comments to counterparts that were retransmitted on Russian state television. "This happens mainly because of dishonest competition, protectionism and because some states, especially those of the G20, are not ready for mutual recognition of vaccines and vaccination certificates," Putin added. In an apparent reference to the failure of Russia's Sputnik V to win foreign regulatory approval, Putin urged G20 health ministers to discuss the mutual recognition of vaccines and vaccination certificates "as soon as possible". Also Read | G20 Summit kicks off in Rome with focus on climate, COVID and economy South Africa refused recognition to Sputnik V vaccine earlier this month. This was in spite of the country being in dire need of vaccines. South Africa claimed that the Russian vaccine could risk of HIV infection among men. Sputnik V also lacks regulatory approval in the EU and the US. Chinese President Xi Jinping -- who, like Putin did not travel to Rome for the summit and participated by video link -- made a similar call for the mutual recognition of vaccines, according to Chinese state media. Rising cases Putin and Xi were said to have avoided travelling to Italy due to tightening coronavirus restrictions in their home countries. Russia has seen increased coronavirus cases in spite of increased availability of Spuynik jabs. Putin has ordered a week-long holiday starting Saturday with an aim to contain spread of the virus. Russian authorities said Saturday that daily infection numbers had risen to 40,251, a record since the start of the pandemic, with only 32.5 percent of the population fully vaccinated. Pics: PM Modi joins world leaders for G20 summit in Rome At the G20, summit host and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi said the international community was "very close to meeting the WHO’s target of vaccinating 40 percent of the global population by the end of 2021". "Now we must do all we can to reach 70 percent by mid-2022," he added. According to a source quoted by Reuters, "all the leaders" agreed to commit to the target set out by Draghi. The Italian premier noted that while more than 70 percent of people in developed countries have received at least one dose of the Covid vaccine, the percentage drops to around three percent in the poorest parts of the world. "These differences are morally unacceptable, and undermine the global recovery," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

G20 Summit: Putin fires first shots, calls for greater recognition to Sputnik jab

Vaccinations offer better protection against COVID-19 than immunity from a prior infection, health officials have said. A new study by CDC has concluded that unvaccinated people who had contracted the virus months earlier were five times more likely to contract it again than fully vaccinated people who did not have any prior infection.&nbsp;

The study analysed data from nearly 190 hospitals in nine states. The researchers counted 7,000 adult patients who were hospitalised this year with respiratory illnesses or symptoms similar to those of COVID-19. It was concluded that about 6,000 of them had been fully vaccinated with the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines three to six months before getting hospitalised.&nbsp;

The remaining 1,000 were unvaccinated but had been infected with the deadly virus.

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Dr Mike Saag, an infectious disease expert at the University of Alabama at Birmingham who was not involved in the study was quoted by The Associated Press, "These data show, pretty strongly, that the vaccines are more protective against symptomatic Covid."

Saag deemed the research as convincing. He also said that it is important information for parents as the government is now expanding its vaccination campaign to more children.

“There have been many people who have advocated, ‘Well, let’s just let the kids get infected.’ I think these data support the notion that the vaccines work better in general, and likely work better for 5- to 11-year-olds,” Saag said.

Vaccinations offer better protection against COVID-19 than immunity from a prior infection, health officials have said. A new study by CDC has concluded that unvaccinated people who had contracted the virus months earlier were five times more likely to contract it again than fully vaccinated people who did not have any prior infection.

Vaccinations offer better protection against COVID-19 than immunity from a prior infection, health officials have said. A new study by CDC has concluded that unvaccinated people who had contracted the virus months earlier were five times more likely to contract it again than fully vaccinated people who did not have any prior infection. The study analysed data from nearly 190 hospitals in nine states. The researchers counted 7,000 adult patients who were hospitalised this year with respiratory illnesses or symptoms similar to those of COVID-19. It was concluded that about 6,000 of them had been fully vaccinated with the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines three to six months before getting hospitalised. The remaining 1,000 were unvaccinated but had been infected with the deadly virus. Also read | Documents Trump wants to shield from Capitol riots investigators revealed Dr Mike Saag, an infectious disease expert at the University of Alabama at Birmingham who was not involved in the study was quoted by The Associated Press, "These data show, pretty strongly, that the vaccines are more protective against symptomatic Covid." Saag deemed the research as convincing. He also said that it is important information for parents as the government is now expanding its vaccination campaign to more children. “There have been many people who have advocated, ‘Well, let’s just let the kids get infected.’ I think these data support the notion that the vaccines work better in general, and likely work better for 5- to 11-year-olds,” Saag said.

Vaccines against coronavirus more protective than prior infection: Study

World leaders have gathered in Rome to discuss sustainable global development. But almost two years into the coronavirus pandemic. One of the major themes of this summit turned out to be vaccine access.

Vaccine Access: One of major themes of summit G20 summit

Climate change and the relaunch of the global economy will top the G20 agenda as leaders of the world's most advanced nations meet Saturday, the first in-person gathering since the pandemic.

Looming over the two-day talks in Rome is pressure to make headway on tackling global warming, ahead of the key COP26 summit kicking off in Glasgow Monday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-g20-wants-70-of-world-vaccinated-by-mid-2022-sets-up-task-force-for-pandemic-fight-425097">COVID-19: G20 wants 70% of world vaccinated by mid-2022, sets up task force for pandemic fight</a>

The stakes are high, with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres warning G20 leaders Friday to show "more ambition and more action" and overcome mistrust in order to advance climate goals.

"We are still on time to put things on track, and I think the G20 meeting is the opportunity to do that," Guterres said.

Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi met leaders as they arrived in the futuristic convention centre known as the "Nuvola" (cloud) in EUR, a southern Rome district built by Benito Mussolini to glorify his fascist regime.

US President Joe Biden flew in on Friday, hoping to turn a page from the tumultuous Trump years and show that American leadership on the world stage is restored.&nbsp;

Yet the Democrat faces a credibility test as his own signature climate policy -- part of a sweeping economic package -- is held up amid infighting within his party in Congress.

He met Friday with Pope Francis and then French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, where he admitted Washington had been "clumsy" in handling of a submarine deal with Australia and Britain that left Paris out in the cold.

Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping are absent from Rome, attending only by video link, but the others are taking advantage of the first in-person G20 for more than two years to hold a flurry of bilaterals.

Watch |&nbsp;G20 summit: Justin Trudeau, other leaders arrive in Rome

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Biden will meet Macron, Germany's Angela Merkel and Britain's Boris Johnson later Saturday for talks on Iran, after Tehran said it would resume discussions with world powers next month on reviving the 2015 nuclear accord.

Security is tight in Rome following violent protests earlier this month over the extension of Italy's coronavirus pass to workplaces, and a Fridays for Future climate march is expected in the city later in the day.

Draghi has called for a "G20 commitment on the need to limit the rise in temperatures to 1.5 degrees" above pre-industrial levels, the most ambitious target outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change.

Johnson -- the host of the UN climate summit next week -- said neither the G20 nor the COP26 meetings could stop global warming, and "the most we can hope to do is slow the increase".

Humanity, Johnson told reporters onboard his flight to Rome, can regress "at extraordinary speed".

"You saw that with the decline and fall of the Roman Empire, and I'm afraid to say that it's true today unless we get this right in tackling climate change," he said.

Complicating the task for the G20 will be disparities between top world powers.

China, the world's biggest polluter and responsible for more than a quarter of all carbon emissions, has been accused of sidestepping calls to stop building new coal-fired power plants.

A new plan submitted by Beijing to the UN ahead of COP26 fell short of environmentalists' expectations, with a target date of 2060 to reach carbon neutrality.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-indias-g20-sherpa-piyush-goyal-speaks-to-wion-on-countrys-agenda-at-summit-425179">Exclusive: India’s G20 sherpa Piyush Goyal speaks to WION on country's agenda at summit</a>

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, meanwhile, has steadfastly demanded that his country be paid for protecting its share of the Amazon.

The world's biggest rainforest is seen as a vital resource to combat climate change for its ability to absorb fossil fuel emissions.

Taxing global players&nbsp;

A surer bet for concrete progress at the G20 involves taxation, as the group is expected to endorse the 15 percent minimum international tax rate on multinational companies after nearly 140 countries reached an OECD-brokered deal.

The move seeks to end tax optimisation, in which global corporations, including big US tech firms such as Apple and Google parent Alphabet -- shelter profits in countries with low-tax systems.

The OECD says a 15 percent global minimum corporate tax rate could add $150 billion annually to global tax revenues. &nbsp;

No new pledges are expected on Covid-19 vaccines at the summit.

G20 finance and health ministers meeting Friday said members would "take steps to help boost the supply of vaccines and essential medical products and inputs in developing countries and remove relevant supply and financing constraints."

Climate change and the relaunch of the global economy will top the G20 agenda as leaders of the world's most advanced nations meet Saturday, the first in-person gathering since the pandemic.

Climate change and the relaunch of the global economy will top the G20 agenda as leaders of the world's most advanced nations meet Saturday, the first in-person gathering since the pandemic. Looming over the two-day talks in Rome is pressure to make headway on tackling global warming, ahead of the key COP26 summit kicking off in Glasgow Monday. Also Read | COVID-19: G20 wants 70% of world vaccinated by mid-2022, sets up task force for pandemic fight The stakes are high, with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres warning G20 leaders Friday to show "more ambition and more action" and overcome mistrust in order to advance climate goals. "We are still on time to put things on track, and I think the G20 meeting is the opportunity to do that," Guterres said. Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi met leaders as they arrived in the futuristic convention centre known as the "Nuvola" (cloud) in EUR, a southern Rome district built by Benito Mussolini to glorify his fascist regime. US President Joe Biden flew in on Friday, hoping to turn a page from the tumultuous Trump years and show that American leadership on the world stage is restored. Yet the Democrat faces a credibility test as his own signature climate policy -- part of a sweeping economic package -- is held up amid infighting within his party in Congress. He met Friday with Pope Francis and then French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, where he admitted Washington had been "clumsy" in handling of a submarine deal with Australia and Britain that left Paris out in the cold. Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping are absent from Rome, attending only by video link, but the others are taking advantage of the first in-person G20 for more than two years to hold a flurry of bilaterals. Watch | G20 summit: Justin Trudeau, other leaders arrive in Rome Biden will meet Macron, Germany's Angela Merkel and Britain's Boris Johnson later Saturday for talks on Iran, after Tehran said it would resume discussions with world powers next month on reviving the 2015 nuclear accord. Security is tight in Rome following violent protests earlier this month over the extension of Italy's coronavirus pass to workplaces, and a Fridays for Future climate march is expected in the city later in the day. Draghi has called for a "G20 commitment on the need to limit the rise in temperatures to 1.5 degrees" above pre-industrial levels, the most ambitious target outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change. Johnson -- the host of the UN climate summit next week -- said neither the G20 nor the COP26 meetings could stop global warming, and "the most we can hope to do is slow the increase". Humanity, Johnson told reporters onboard his flight to Rome, can regress "at extraordinary speed". "You saw that with the decline and fall of the Roman Empire, and I'm afraid to say that it's true today unless we get this right in tackling climate change," he said. Complicating the task for the G20 will be disparities between top world powers. China, the world's biggest polluter and responsible for more than a quarter of all carbon emissions, has been accused of sidestepping calls to stop building new coal-fired power plants. A new plan submitted by Beijing to the UN ahead of COP26 fell short of environmentalists' expectations, with a target date of 2060 to reach carbon neutrality. Also Read | Exclusive: India’s G20 sherpa Piyush Goyal speaks to WION on country's agenda at summit Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, meanwhile, has steadfastly demanded that his country be paid for protecting its share of the Amazon. The world's biggest rainforest is seen as a vital resource to combat climate change for its ability to absorb fossil fuel emissions. Taxing global players A surer bet for concrete progress at the G20 involves taxation, as the group is expected to endorse the 15 percent minimum international tax rate on multinational companies after nearly 140 countries reached an OECD-brokered deal. The move seeks to end tax optimisation, in which global corporations, including big US tech firms such as Apple and Google parent Alphabet -- shelter profits in countries with low-tax systems. The OECD says a 15 percent global minimum corporate tax rate could add $150 billion annually to global tax revenues. No new pledges are expected on Covid-19 vaccines at the summit. G20 finance and health ministers meeting Friday said members would "take steps to help boost the supply of vaccines and essential medical products and inputs in developing countries and remove relevant supply and financing constraints."

World leaders to talk climate, economy, vaccines at G20

With more than a quarter of workers at some important agencies still unvaccinated, it seems New York City will have to brace for potential shortages in its sanitation, police and fire departments.&nbsp;The development comes as the deadline for government’s directive for all city workers to get the Covid shot is on Friday. &nbsp;

The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) has warned that up to 20 per cent of fire companies and ambulances could be out of commission on Monday. In an apparent protest by sanitation workers, the garbage is already piling up in corners of the city.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-needle-free-vaccine-patches-coming-soon-say-researchers-and-makers-425233" hreflang="en">Covid: Needle-free vaccine patches coming soon, say researchers and makers</a>&nbsp;

The vaccine mandate is the right thing to do and the city can get through any disruptions, said Mayor Bill de Blasio on Thursday.&nbsp;“My job is to keep people safe — my employees and 8.8 million people. And until we defeat Covid, people are not safe. If we don’t stop Covid, New Yorkers will die. We must, must stop Covid, and that must, must include our public employees. In fact, they need to lead the way,” Blasio told reporters. &nbsp;

When mayor spoke, around a thousand city workers and vaccine opponents were protesting outside his home at Gracie Mansion.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/closed-under-covid-lockdown-auckland-tops-lonely-planets-list-of-cities-to-visit-in-2022-425235" hreflang="en">Closed under Covid lockdown, Auckland tops Lonely Planet’s list of cities to visit in 2022</a>&nbsp;

“On November 1, there’s going to be a crisis in this city. This is a crisis that is orchestrated by the mayor. People’s lives are at stake,” said Uniformed Firefighters Association president Andrew Ansbro. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ordered by de Blasio earlier this month, the vaccine mandate will take effect at 5 pm on Friday. From Monday morning, workers, who have not received their first shot, will be barred from working and will not get paid until they can show proof of having received at least one shot. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With more than a quarter of workers at some important agencies still unvaccinated, it seems New York City will have to brace for potential shortages in its sanitation, police and fire departments.

With more than a quarter of workers at some important agencies still unvaccinated, it seems New York City will have to brace for potential shortages in its sanitation, police and fire departments. The development comes as the deadline for government’s directive for all city workers to get the Covid shot is on Friday. The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) has warned that up to 20 per cent of fire companies and ambulances could be out of commission on Monday. In an apparent protest by sanitation workers, the garbage is already piling up in corners of the city. Also Read | Covid: Needle-free vaccine patches coming soon, say researchers and makers The vaccine mandate is the right thing to do and the city can get through any disruptions, said Mayor Bill de Blasio on Thursday. “My job is to keep people safe — my employees and 8.8 million people. And until we defeat Covid, people are not safe. If we don’t stop Covid, New Yorkers will die. We must, must stop Covid, and that must, must include our public employees. In fact, they need to lead the way,” Blasio told reporters. When mayor spoke, around a thousand city workers and vaccine opponents were protesting outside his home at Gracie Mansion. Also Read: Closed under Covid lockdown, Auckland tops Lonely Planet’s list of cities to visit in 2022 “On November 1, there’s going to be a crisis in this city. This is a crisis that is orchestrated by the mayor. People’s lives are at stake,” said Uniformed Firefighters Association president Andrew Ansbro. Ordered by de Blasio earlier this month, the vaccine mandate will take effect at 5 pm on Friday. From Monday morning, workers, who have not received their first shot, will be barred from working and will not get paid until they can show proof of having received at least one shot. (With inputs from agencies)

As vaccine mandate deadline looms, New York City braces for worker shortage

US President Joe Biden’s aggressive vaccine mandate has sparked a backlash from the Republicans.&nbsp;Various states in the US have filed a lawsuit against Biden's vaccine mandate as they have argued that the requirement violates federal law. These states include Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Georgia, Alabama, Idaho, Kansas, South Carolina, Utah and West Virginia.

The states have asked a federal judge to block Biden's mandate that requires all employees of federal contractors to be vaccinated against the deadly COVID-19. They argue that the mandate violates federal procurement law.&nbsp;

Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt, in a statement, said, "If the federal government attempts to unconstitutionally exert its will and force federal contractors to mandate vaccinations, the workforce and businesses could be decimated, further exacerbating the supply chain and workforce crises."

"The federal government should not be mandating vaccinations, and that's why we filed suit today – to halt this illegal, unconstitutional action.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turn-the-tide-biden-announces-new-vaccine-mandates-in-covid-19-battle-411974">Also read |&nbsp;'Turn the tide': Biden announces new vaccine mandates in COVID-19 battle</a>

As a response, Biden has said that the vaccine mandate will help in curbing the spread of the virus. However, the Republicans nationwide have opposed the vaccination requirements. Also, they have threatened to bring similar legal challenges.

Biden’s plan mandates vaccinations for all federal employees and contractors and businesses with more than 100 employees.

Companies could face fines if they do not adhere to the directive. Earlier, Biden had said that ''we can and we will turn the tide of COVID-19.''&nbsp;

''It’ll take a lot of hard work and it’s going to take some time. Many of us are frustrated with the nearly 80 million Americans who are still not vaccinated even though the vaccine is safe, effective and free,'' he added.

US President Joe Biden’s aggressive vaccine mandate has sparked a backlash from the Republicans. Various states in the US have filed a lawsuit against Biden's vaccine mandate as they have argued that the requirement violates federal law.

US President Joe Biden’s aggressive vaccine mandate has sparked a backlash from the Republicans. Various states in the US have filed a lawsuit against Biden's vaccine mandate as they have argued that the requirement violates federal law. These states include Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Georgia, Alabama, Idaho, Kansas, South Carolina, Utah and West Virginia. The states have asked a federal judge to block Biden's mandate that requires all employees of federal contractors to be vaccinated against the deadly COVID-19. They argue that the mandate violates federal procurement law. Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt, in a statement, said, "If the federal government attempts to unconstitutionally exert its will and force federal contractors to mandate vaccinations, the workforce and businesses could be decimated, further exacerbating the supply chain and workforce crises." "The federal government should not be mandating vaccinations, and that's why we filed suit today – to halt this illegal, unconstitutional action.” Also read | 'Turn the tide': Biden announces new vaccine mandates in COVID-19 battle As a response, Biden has said that the vaccine mandate will help in curbing the spread of the virus. However, the Republicans nationwide have opposed the vaccination requirements. Also, they have threatened to bring similar legal challenges. Biden’s plan mandates vaccinations for all federal employees and contractors and businesses with more than 100 employees. Companies could face fines if they do not adhere to the directive. Earlier, Biden had said that ''we can and we will turn the tide of COVID-19.'' ''It’ll take a lot of hard work and it’s going to take some time. Many of us are frustrated with the nearly 80 million Americans who are still not vaccinated even though the vaccine is safe, effective and free,'' he added.

'To halt illegal action': US states sue Biden administration over vaccine mandate

Effective&nbsp;vaccines, without a needle: Since the start of the Covid pandemic, researchers have doubled down on efforts to create&nbsp;patches&nbsp;that deliver life-saving drugs painlessly to the skin, a development that could revolutionize medicine.

The technique could help save children's tears at doctors' offices, and help people who have a phobia of syringes.

Beyond that, skin&nbsp;patches&nbsp;could assist with distribution efforts, because they don't have cold-chain requirements -- and might even heighten&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;efficacy.

A new mouse study in the area, published in the journal Science Advances, showed promising results.

The Australian-US team used&nbsp;patches&nbsp;measuring one square centimeter that were dotted with more than 5,000 microscopic spikes, "so tiny you can't actually see them," David Muller, a virologist at the University of Queensland and co-author of the paper, told AFP.

These tips have been coated with an experimental&nbsp;vaccine, and the patch is clicked on with an applicator that resembles a hockey puck. "It's like you get a good flick on the skin," said Muller.

The researchers used a so-called "subunit"&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;that reproduces the spikes that dot the surface of the coronavirus.

Mice were injected either via the patch over the course of two minutes, or with a syringe.

The immune systems of those who got the patch produced high levels of neutralizing antibodies after two doses, including in their lungs, vital to stopping Covid, and the&nbsp;patches&nbsp;outperformed syringes.&nbsp;

The researchers also found that a sub-group of mice, who were given only one dose of&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;containing an additional substance called an adjuvant used to spur immune response, "didn't get sick at all," said Muller.

<h2>Easy to apply&nbsp;</h2>

What makes them more effective?

Vaccines&nbsp;are normally injected into our muscles, but muscle tissue doesn't contain very many immune cells needed to react to the drug, explained Muller.

In addition, the tiny spikes cause localized skin death, which alerts the body to a problem and triggers a greater immune response.&nbsp;

For the scientist, the logistical advantages couldn't be clearer.&nbsp;

First, when dry-coated on a patch, the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;is stable for at least 30 days at 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) and one week at 40C (104F), compared to a few hours at room temperature for the Moderna and Pfizer&nbsp;vaccines.

This offers a major advantage particularly for developing countries.

Second, "it's very simple to use," said Muller. "You don't necessarily need highly trained medical professionals to deliver it."

Burak Ozdoganlar, a professor of engineering at Carnegie Mellon University in the US city of Pittsburgh, has also been working on the technology since 2007.

He sees yet another advantage: "Less amount of&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;delivered precisely to skin can activate an immune response similar to intramuscular injection," he told AFP. It's an important factor as the developing world struggles to procure enough Covid&nbsp;vaccine.

Ozdoganlar can produce around 300-400&nbsp;patches&nbsp;a day in his lab, but hasn't been able to test them out on mRNA&nbsp;vaccines, which have come to the fore during the pandemic, because he hasn't been authorized by Pfizer or Moderna.

<h2>&nbsp;'The future'&nbsp;</h2>

The patch used in the study published on Friday was made by Australian company Vaxxas, which is the furthest along. Human trials are planned from April.&nbsp;

Two other American companies are also part of the race: Micron Biomedical and Vaxess.

The latter, founded in 2013 and based in Massachusetts, is working on a slightly different type of patch, with microneedles that dissolve in the skin.

They say this approach has the benefit of requiring fewer spikes per patch -- just 121 -- made of a protein polymer that is biocompatible.

"We're working on a seasonal Covid and flu combination product that will be mailed directly to patients' homes, for self-administration," CEO Michael Schrader told AFP.

The Covid&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;they are using is produced by the company Medigen, already authorized in Taiwan.&nbsp;

Vaxess has just opened a factory near Boston, with funding from the US National Institutes for Health. They aim to produce enough&nbsp;patches&nbsp;to vaccinate 2,000 to 3,000 people in clinical trials, which are to be launched next summer.

The main challenge right now is production, with no manufacturers yet able to make enough&nbsp;patches&nbsp;en masse.

Effective vaccines, without a needle: Since the start of the Covid pandemic, researchers have doubled down on efforts to create patches that deliver life-saving drugs painlessly to the skin, a development that could revolutionize medicine.

Effective vaccines, without a needle: Since the start of the Covid pandemic, researchers have doubled down on efforts to create patches that deliver life-saving drugs painlessly to the skin, a development that could revolutionize medicine. The technique could help save children's tears at doctors' offices, and help people who have a phobia of syringes. Beyond that, skin patches could assist with distribution efforts, because they don't have cold-chain requirements -- and might even heighten vaccine efficacy. A new mouse study in the area, published in the journal Science Advances, showed promising results. The Australian-US team used patches measuring one square centimeter that were dotted with more than 5,000 microscopic spikes, "so tiny you can't actually see them," David Muller, a virologist at the University of Queensland and co-author of the paper, told AFP. These tips have been coated with an experimental vaccine, and the patch is clicked on with an applicator that resembles a hockey puck. "It's like you get a good flick on the skin," said Muller. The researchers used a so-called "subunit" vaccine that reproduces the spikes that dot the surface of the coronavirus. Mice were injected either via the patch over the course of two minutes, or with a syringe. The immune systems of those who got the patch produced high levels of neutralizing antibodies after two doses, including in their lungs, vital to stopping Covid, and the patches outperformed syringes. The researchers also found that a sub-group of mice, who were given only one dose of vaccine containing an additional substance called an adjuvant used to spur immune response, "didn't get sick at all," said Muller. Easy to apply What makes them more effective? Vaccines are normally injected into our muscles, but muscle tissue doesn't contain very many immune cells needed to react to the drug, explained Muller. In addition, the tiny spikes cause localized skin death, which alerts the body to a problem and triggers a greater immune response. For the scientist, the logistical advantages couldn't be clearer. First, when dry-coated on a patch, the vaccine is stable for at least 30 days at 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) and one week at 40C (104F), compared to a few hours at room temperature for the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. This offers a major advantage particularly for developing countries. Second, "it's very simple to use," said Muller. "You don't necessarily need highly trained medical professionals to deliver it." Burak Ozdoganlar, a professor of engineering at Carnegie Mellon University in the US city of Pittsburgh, has also been working on the technology since 2007. He sees yet another advantage: "Less amount of vaccine delivered precisely to skin can activate an immune response similar to intramuscular injection," he told AFP. It's an important factor as the developing world struggles to procure enough Covid vaccine. Ozdoganlar can produce around 300-400 patches a day in his lab, but hasn't been able to test them out on mRNA vaccines, which have come to the fore during the pandemic, because he hasn't been authorized by Pfizer or Moderna. 'The future' The patch used in the study published on Friday was made by Australian company Vaxxas, which is the furthest along. Human trials are planned from April. Two other American companies are also part of the race: Micron Biomedical and Vaxess. The latter, founded in 2013 and based in Massachusetts, is working on a slightly different type of patch, with microneedles that dissolve in the skin. They say this approach has the benefit of requiring fewer spikes per patch -- just 121 -- made of a protein polymer that is biocompatible. "We're working on a seasonal Covid and flu combination product that will be mailed directly to patients' homes, for self-administration," CEO Michael Schrader told AFP. The Covid vaccine they are using is produced by the company Medigen, already authorized in Taiwan. Vaxess has just opened a factory near Boston, with funding from the US National Institutes for Health. They aim to produce enough patches to vaccinate 2,000 to 3,000 people in clinical trials, which are to be launched next summer. The main challenge right now is production, with no manufacturers yet able to make enough patches en masse.

Covid: Needle-free vaccine patches coming soon, say researchers and makers

Hundreds of firefighters and city workers protested in New York against the covid-19 vaccine mandate that will come into effect from November 1 and will require all employees to show proof of covid-19 vaccination.

New York workers protest COVID-19 vaccine mandate

Meet, demand more data & reschedule. This has been the WHO's strategy on approving India's homegrown jab - Covaxin. Are WHO experts delaying the approval on purpose? Were all jabs subjected to the same regime? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Is WHO delaying approval for COVAXIN?

Another big boost awaits India's vaccination drive, just days after the country successfully administered 1 billion vaccine doses, the WHO will meet today to consider approving the emergency use of India's indigenously made Covaxin jab.

Covaxin: WHO to meet for emergency use listing

Facebook and YouTube have removed from their platforms a video by Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in which the far-right leader made a false claim that COVID-19 vaccines were linked with developing AIDS.

Both Facebook and Alphabet Inc's YouTube said the video, which was recorded on Thursday, violated their policies.

"Our policies don't allow claims that COVID-19 vaccines kill or seriously harm people," a Facebook spokesperson said in a statement on Monday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/here-for-the-articles-pornhub-goes-up-as-facebook-servers-were-down-419167">'Here for the articles': Pornhub goes up as Facebook servers were down</a>

YouTube confirmed that it had taken the same step later in the day.

"We removed a video from Jair Bolsonaro's channel for violating our medical disinformation policy regarding COVID-19 for alleging that vaccines don't reduce the risk of contracting the disease and that they cause other infectious diseases," YouTube said in a statement.

According to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS), COVID-19 vaccines approved by health regulators are safe for most people, including those living with HIV, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, known as AIDS.

Facebook and YouTube have removed from their platforms a video by Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in which the far-right leader made a false claim that COVID-19 vaccines were linked with developing AIDS.

Facebook and YouTube have removed from their platforms a video by Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in which the far-right leader made a false claim that COVID-19 vaccines were linked with developing AIDS. Both Facebook and Alphabet Inc's YouTube said the video, which was recorded on Thursday, violated their policies. "Our policies don't allow claims that COVID-19 vaccines kill or seriously harm people," a Facebook spokesperson said in a statement on Monday. Also Read | 'Here for the articles': Pornhub goes up as Facebook servers were down YouTube confirmed that it had taken the same step later in the day. "We removed a video from Jair Bolsonaro's channel for violating our medical disinformation policy regarding COVID-19 for alleging that vaccines don't reduce the risk of contracting the disease and that they cause other infectious diseases," YouTube said in a statement. According to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS), COVID-19 vaccines approved by health regulators are safe for most people, including those living with HIV, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, known as AIDS.

Facebook, YouTube take down Bolsonaro video over false vaccine claim

New York City municipal employees marched across the Brooklyn Bridge against the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The demonstrators included city workers with the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the Sanitation Department of New York (SDNY) and the New York Police Department (NYPD).

Most of the&nbsp;workers have less than a week to get their COVID-19 vaccines or go on unpaid leave. The protests turned violent when some demonstrators tried to break into the arena as they clashed with security and police.

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Protests along the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestSideHighway?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestSideHighway</a> this morning as <a href="https://twitter.com/sunrisemvmtnyc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sunrisemvmtnyc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ExtinctionR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ExtinctionR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FFF_NYC_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FFF_NYC_</a> &amp; others block the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NYC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NYC</a> streets to draw attention to Biden's failure to pass sufficient climate legislation<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoClimateNoDeal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoClimateNoDeal</a> <a href="https://t.co/mevsiq846h">pic.twitter.com/mevsiq846h</a> <a href="https://t.co/cUVNtyTuse">pic.twitter.com/cUVNtyTuse</a>
— Amini Fonua (@AminiFonua) <a href="https://twitter.com/AminiFonua/status/1452647733647618050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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NYC workers (fire, police, teachers) march in protest. Which city is next?? <a href="https://t.co/o2zsiGjNnm">pic.twitter.com/o2zsiGjNnm</a>
— Chris Hill (@leftychill) <a href="https://twitter.com/leftychill/status/1452679506553196552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This comes in as last week, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that regular COVID-19 testing would no longer be an option instead of vaccinations. he further said that the city employees, including first responders, would have until October 29 to get at least one dose of the vaccine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-a-heavy-heart-amnesty-to-shut-hong-kong-offices-due-to-security-law-423965">Also read |&nbsp;'With a heavy heart': Amnesty to shut Hong Kong offices due to security law</a>

"It's time now. If you don't want to get vaccinated, you'll be put on unpaid leave. Well, the vast majority of human beings go to work to get paid. And also, I think for a lot of our first responders, there's a calling. They believe in the work, they care about the work. Those two factors I think are going to cause the vast majority to get vaccinated," Mayor de Blasio said.

He also offered a $500 incentive for city workers to get vaccinated. As a result of this, several unions are now demanding back pay for workers who already got vaccinated without a bonus.

The PBA has filed a lawsuit in Staten Island state Supreme Court seeking to overturn the vaccine mandate.

PBA President Pat Lynch said they are looking forward to filing a request for a temporary restraining order asking the court to bar the city and the NYPD from implementing the mandate, reports AP.

New York City municipal employees marched across the Brooklyn Bridge against the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The demonstrators included city workers with the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the Sanitation Department of New York (SDNY) and the New York Police Department (NYPD).

New York City municipal employees marched across the Brooklyn Bridge against the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The demonstrators included city workers with the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the Sanitation Department of New York (SDNY) and the New York Police Department (NYPD). Most of the workers have less than a week to get their COVID-19 vaccines or go on unpaid leave. The protests turned violent when some demonstrators tried to break into the arena as they clashed with security and police. Protests along the #WestSideHighway this morning as @sunrisemvmtnyc @ExtinctionR @FFF_NYC_ & others block the #NYC streets to draw attention to Biden's failure to pass sufficient climate legislation#NoClimateNoDeal pic.twitter.com/mevsiq846h pic.twitter.com/cUVNtyTuse — Amini Fonua (@AminiFonua) October 25, 2021 × NYC workers (fire, police, teachers) march in protest. Which city is next?? pic.twitter.com/o2zsiGjNnm — Chris Hill (@leftychill) October 25, 2021 × This comes in as last week, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that regular COVID-19 testing would no longer be an option instead of vaccinations. he further said that the city employees, including first responders, would have until October 29 to get at least one dose of the vaccine. Also read | 'With a heavy heart': Amnesty to shut Hong Kong offices due to security law "It's time now. If you don't want to get vaccinated, you'll be put on unpaid leave. Well, the vast majority of human beings go to work to get paid. And also, I think for a lot of our first responders, there's a calling. They believe in the work, they care about the work. Those two factors I think are going to cause the vast majority to get vaccinated," Mayor de Blasio said. He also offered a $500 incentive for city workers to get vaccinated. As a result of this, several unions are now demanding back pay for workers who already got vaccinated without a bonus. The PBA has filed a lawsuit in Staten Island state Supreme Court seeking to overturn the vaccine mandate. PBA President Pat Lynch said they are looking forward to filing a request for a temporary restraining order asking the court to bar the city and the NYPD from implementing the mandate, reports AP.

Emergency workers protest against vaccine mandate in New York

The coronavirus vaccine made by Moderna is safe and produces a powerful immune response in children ages 6 through 11, the company said Monday.

One month after immunisation was complete, the children in Moderna’s trial had antibody levels that were 1.5 times higher than those seen in young adults, the company said.

Moderna did not release the full data, nor are the results published in a peer-reviewed journal. The results were announced one day before an advisory committee of the Food and Drug Administration is scheduled to review data for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in children 5 through 11.

Moderna tested two shots of the vaccine given 28 days apart in 4,753 children. They received 50 micrograms of vaccine, half the adult dose, in each shot. (Last week, based on data showing that the half dose is still highly effective, the FDA authorised a booster shot of the Moderna vaccine at this dose.)

Moderna submitted study results for the vaccine’s use for adolescents 12 through 17 in June, but the FDA has not yet announced a decision for that age group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-emergency-workers-protest-against-vaccine-mandate-in-new-york-423979">Also read |&nbsp;Hundreds of emergency workers protest against vaccine mandate in New York</a>

Some research indicates that the Moderna vaccine may increase the risk of a rare side effect called myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, in boys and young men. In July, the FDA asked both Pfizer and Moderna to expand the size of their trials in order to detect less common side effects.

In children aged 6 through 11, most of the side events were mild or moderate; the most common were fatigue, headache, fever and pain at the injection site, Moderna said in its statement Monday. An independent committee will continue to review the vaccine’s safety in the trial participants for 12 months after the second dose.

Moderna is still recruiting children aged 2 through 5 and 6 months to under 2 years for trials of the vaccine in those age groups. The company has enrolled about 5,700 children in the United States and Canada in the trial.

Moderna plans to submit the results soon to the FDA and to regulatory agencies in Europe and elsewhere, the company said.

The coronavirus vaccine made by Moderna is safe and produces a powerful immune response in children ages 6 through 11, the company said Monday. One month after immunisation was complete, the children in Moderna’s trial had antibody levels that were 1.

The coronavirus vaccine made by Moderna is safe and produces a powerful immune response in children ages 6 through 11, the company said Monday. One month after immunisation was complete, the children in Moderna’s trial had antibody levels that were 1.5 times higher than those seen in young adults, the company said. Moderna did not release the full data, nor are the results published in a peer-reviewed journal. The results were announced one day before an advisory committee of the Food and Drug Administration is scheduled to review data for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in children 5 through 11. Moderna tested two shots of the vaccine given 28 days apart in 4,753 children. They received 50 micrograms of vaccine, half the adult dose, in each shot. (Last week, based on data showing that the half dose is still highly effective, the FDA authorised a booster shot of the Moderna vaccine at this dose.) Moderna submitted study results for the vaccine’s use for adolescents 12 through 17 in June, but the FDA has not yet announced a decision for that age group. Also read | Hundreds of emergency workers protest against vaccine mandate in New York Some research indicates that the Moderna vaccine may increase the risk of a rare side effect called myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, in boys and young men. In July, the FDA asked both Pfizer and Moderna to expand the size of their trials in order to detect less common side effects. In children aged 6 through 11, most of the side events were mild or moderate; the most common were fatigue, headache, fever and pain at the injection site, Moderna said in its statement Monday. An independent committee will continue to review the vaccine’s safety in the trial participants for 12 months after the second dose. Moderna is still recruiting children aged 2 through 5 and 6 months to under 2 years for trials of the vaccine in those age groups. The company has enrolled about 5,700 children in the United States and Canada in the trial. Moderna plans to submit the results soon to the FDA and to regulatory agencies in Europe and elsewhere, the company said.

Moderna’s COVID vaccine produces strong immune response in younger children

The United States on Monday provided as many as 100,620 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal through COVAX. This adds up to the 1.53 million J&amp;J vaccines given by the US to Nepal in July.

Nepal has been using various COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by different companies that they have received under the COVAX programme besides the ones they purchased from India and China.&nbsp;

The US Embassy announced on Twitter, “100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccine have just arrived in Nepal. These vaccines have been donated by the US government to Nepal to fight COVID-19 in partnership with COVAX. Stay tuned for more.”

US Ambassador to Nepal, Randy Berry, who also happens to mark her third anniversary as the Ambassador to Nepal, further committed to supporting Nepal to fight the pandemic.&nbsp;

<img alt="US donates 100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccines to Nepal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6731b8f5-0ef4-467e-bd53-07853e572d19" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/FChDxztWYAAYZcz.jpeg" />

“I am beyond thrilled that today we donated 100,620 Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal. This is part of our ongoing commitment to the Nepali people since the beginning of the pandemic, including 1.53 million J&amp;J vaccines. Beyond vaccines, our assistance to-date totals over $122M,” Ambassador Berry said in a tweet.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-has-been-breaching-nepal-china-border-rules-in-humla-report-423358">Also read |&nbsp;China has been breaching Nepal-China border rules in Humla: Report</a>

“Along with today's donation, USAID and #COVAX partners helped to ensure safe cold storage and handling of these vaccines to get shots in arms. This will benefit Nepalis now and in the future,” he said in another tweet.&nbsp;

The Nepal Foreign Ministry thanked the US for its help and support in combating the coronavirus pandemic through shipments of COVID-19 vaccine doses.&nbsp;

“The US has provided 100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccines in support of Nepal's vaccination drive. The vaccines received through COVAX is in addition to the earlier tranche of 1.53 million doses. Nepal is grateful for the generosity extended by the US at this critical time,” MoFA said in a tweet.&nbsp;

The donation comes two days after the Ambassador met the Nepali Health Minister in Kathmandu.&nbsp;

“Today, as part of regular diplomatic engagement, Ambassador Berry met with Health Minister Birodh Khatiwada. The two discussed bilateral issues including cooperation on COVID-19,” the Embassy had earlier said in a tweet. &nbsp;

As of Sunday, 8,606,988 Nepalis have received at least one dose of the anti-COVID vaccine, which is 28.3 per cent of the total population.&nbsp;

Likewise, 6,604,173 people have received both doses, which is nearly 22 per cent of the country’s population.&nbsp;

Nepal’s recovery currently stands at 97.3 per cent. The active cases stand at 1.53 per cent and the death rate is at 1.4 per cent.&nbsp;

The United States on Monday provided as many as 100,620 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal through COVAX. This adds up to the 1.53 million J&J vaccines given by the US to Nepal in July.

The United States on Monday provided as many as 100,620 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal through COVAX. This adds up to the 1.53 million J&J vaccines given by the US to Nepal in July. Nepal has been using various COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by different companies that they have received under the COVAX programme besides the ones they purchased from India and China. The US Embassy announced on Twitter, “100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccine have just arrived in Nepal. These vaccines have been donated by the US government to Nepal to fight COVID-19 in partnership with COVAX. Stay tuned for more.” US Ambassador to Nepal, Randy Berry, who also happens to mark her third anniversary as the Ambassador to Nepal, further committed to supporting Nepal to fight the pandemic. “I am beyond thrilled that today we donated 100,620 Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal. This is part of our ongoing commitment to the Nepali people since the beginning of the pandemic, including 1.53 million J&J vaccines. Beyond vaccines, our assistance to-date totals over $122M,” Ambassador Berry said in a tweet. Also read | China has been breaching Nepal-China border rules in Humla: Report “Along with today's donation, USAID and #COVAX partners helped to ensure safe cold storage and handling of these vaccines to get shots in arms. This will benefit Nepalis now and in the future,” he said in another tweet. The Nepal Foreign Ministry thanked the US for its help and support in combating the coronavirus pandemic through shipments of COVID-19 vaccine doses. “The US has provided 100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccines in support of Nepal's vaccination drive. The vaccines received through COVAX is in addition to the earlier tranche of 1.53 million doses. Nepal is grateful for the generosity extended by the US at this critical time,” MoFA said in a tweet. The donation comes two days after the Ambassador met the Nepali Health Minister in Kathmandu. “Today, as part of regular diplomatic engagement, Ambassador Berry met with Health Minister Birodh Khatiwada. The two discussed bilateral issues including cooperation on COVID-19,” the Embassy had earlier said in a tweet. As of Sunday, 8,606,988 Nepalis have received at least one dose of the anti-COVID vaccine, which is 28.3 per cent of the total population. Likewise, 6,604,173 people have received both doses, which is nearly 22 per cent of the country’s population. Nepal’s recovery currently stands at 97.3 per cent. The active cases stand at 1.53 per cent and the death rate is at 1.4 per cent.

US donates 100,620 doses of Pfizer vaccines to Nepal

India is a "vaccine powerhouse" and America's work with the country in vaccine manufacturing is saving people's lives, the head of the US International Development Finance Corporation, David Marchick, has said ahead of his India visit.

The United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is America's development bank, which invests in developing countries around the world.

Leading a high-powered delegation, DFC Chief Operating Officer (COO) Marchick would travel to India from October 24 to 26.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-nih-admits-to-us-funding-of-gain-of-function-research-in-wuhan-lab-423010">Coronavirus: NIH admits to US funding of gain-of-function research in Wuhan lab</a>

India is the most important and largest partner for DFC investment amounting to more than USD 2.3 billion, which is almost eight per cent of its overall exposure, Marchick said ahead of his India visit beginning Sunday.

We have a very ambitious pipeline. We are very, very excited to work with India to drive economic development and strengthen the partnership between the United States and India,&nbsp;Marchick told PTI in a recent interview.

The DFC COO is currently visiting South Africa, from where he is scheduled to travel to India.

Normally the DFC's work lifts up people's lives. Our work with India on vaccine manufacturing is saving people's lives,&nbsp;he said in response to a question.

During his India trip, Marchick is scheduled to travel to Hyderabad where he will visit the offices of the Indian vaccine manufacturer Biological E and participate in a signing ceremony to open a new facility with substantial capacity for vaccine manufacturing.

India is a vaccine powerhouse. It has very innovative and productive companies in the space. They're producing huge numbers of vaccines,&nbsp;he said. At the same time, he noted that the world needs additional capacity.

India is an absolutely critical part of the solution for the pandemic, given that it is a vaccine powerhouse,&nbsp;Marchick said, underlining that India reaching the milestone of one billion doses is extraordinary. 
India scripted history on Thursday with the cumulative COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country surpassing the 100-crore milestone.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-doctors-affirm-us-study-that-says-first-dose-of-covid-19-vaccine-boosts-mental-health-422841">Indian doctors affirm US study that says first dose of COVID-19 vaccine boosts mental health</a>

Prior to the start of the pandemic, total vaccine manufacturing capacity around the world was around five billion. That's for all vaccines, including for polio and yellow fever.

We need somewhere in the range of 11 billion doses of manufacturing capacity around the world for COVID alone. So, India can play a huge role in filling that gap. And the DFC, the Biden administration, is using its tools to help expand vaccine manufacturing in India and around the world to help get shots in arms,&nbsp;Marchick said.

This work is in advancement of the historic commitment set out by President Joe Biden and his counterparts in the 'Quad' -- Australia, India, Japan and the US.

On September 24, Biden hosted the first-ever in-person summit of Quad leaders at the White House. At President Biden's invitation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterparts Scott Morrison from Australia and Yoshihide Suga from Japan had attended the Quad summit.

After the conclusion of the summit, the Quad leaders in a joint statement had said that in addition to doses financed through COVAX, the four-nation bloc has pledged to donate more than 1.2 billion doses globally of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines and has so far delivered nearly 79 million safe, effective, and quality-assured vaccine doses to countries in the Indo-Pacific as part of those commitments.

Observing that American healthcare experts are in regular touch with the Indian authorities and companies to provide technical assistance, the COO said the DFC provided financing of about USD 50 million for a new facility to be built for Biological E and a new factory, which will substantially expand its capacity to allow it to manufacture in excess of a billion doses.

In addition to helping India expand its vaccine manufacturing capacity, DFC has been a major investor in India's other sectors as well, he said.

We're a huge investor in India. We have USD 2.3 billion of investments already. We have a significant pipeline of over USD 1 billion. So, we would be one of the larger investors in India. Our goal is to catalyse private sector financial activity,&nbsp;he said.

DFC, he said, is particularly focused on four sectors: climate, health, equity and gender opportunities and then technology. These are obviously four critical areas for the development of India's economy, Marchick observed.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-vaccination-in-india-crosses-1-billion-what-about-its-neighbours-422545">COVID-19 vaccination in India crosses 1 billion. What about its neighbours?</a>

On climate, obviously the president (Biden) has said that climate is an existential threat. India is a linchpin in having the world address the climate crisis,&nbsp;Marchick said, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seized with the issue and India "has the most ambitious renewable energy strategy of any country in the world" and we want to help and be a solution provider for that.

On gender equity, DFC's main goal is to provide financing for small and medium sized enterprises that are run by women, are owned by women. We have partnered with a number of financial institutions in India to provide them with liquidity and capital, which they can then lend to small and medium sized enterprises in India,&nbsp;the COO said.

In technology, obviously India is a powerhouse and we provide financing for various technology missions,&nbsp;Marchick said. However, the main reason for the trip is vaccine and vaccine manufacturing.

India is a "vaccine powerhouse" and America's work with the country in vaccine manufacturing is saving people's lives, the head of the US International Development Finance Corporation, David Marchick, has said ahead of his India visit.

India is a "vaccine powerhouse" and America's work with the country in vaccine manufacturing is saving people's lives, the head of the US International Development Finance Corporation, David Marchick, has said ahead of his India visit. The United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is America's development bank, which invests in developing countries around the world. Leading a high-powered delegation, DFC Chief Operating Officer (COO) Marchick would travel to India from October 24 to 26. Also Read | Coronavirus: NIH admits to US funding of gain-of-function research in Wuhan lab India is the most important and largest partner for DFC investment amounting to more than USD 2.3 billion, which is almost eight per cent of its overall exposure, Marchick said ahead of his India visit beginning Sunday. We have a very ambitious pipeline. We are very, very excited to work with India to drive economic development and strengthen the partnership between the United States and India, Marchick told PTI in a recent interview. The DFC COO is currently visiting South Africa, from where he is scheduled to travel to India. Normally the DFC's work lifts up people's lives. Our work with India on vaccine manufacturing is saving people's lives, he said in response to a question. During his India trip, Marchick is scheduled to travel to Hyderabad where he will visit the offices of the Indian vaccine manufacturer Biological E and participate in a signing ceremony to open a new facility with substantial capacity for vaccine manufacturing. India is a vaccine powerhouse. It has very innovative and productive companies in the space. They're producing huge numbers of vaccines, he said. At the same time, he noted that the world needs additional capacity. India is an absolutely critical part of the solution for the pandemic, given that it is a vaccine powerhouse, Marchick said, underlining that India reaching the milestone of one billion doses is extraordinary. India scripted history on Thursday with the cumulative COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country surpassing the 100-crore milestone. Also Read | Indian doctors affirm US study that says first dose of COVID-19 vaccine boosts mental health Prior to the start of the pandemic, total vaccine manufacturing capacity around the world was around five billion. That's for all vaccines, including for polio and yellow fever. We need somewhere in the range of 11 billion doses of manufacturing capacity around the world for COVID alone. So, India can play a huge role in filling that gap. And the DFC, the Biden administration, is using its tools to help expand vaccine manufacturing in India and around the world to help get shots in arms, Marchick said. This work is in advancement of the historic commitment set out by President Joe Biden and his counterparts in the 'Quad' -- Australia, India, Japan and the US. On September 24, Biden hosted the first-ever in-person summit of Quad leaders at the White House. At President Biden's invitation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterparts Scott Morrison from Australia and Yoshihide Suga from Japan had attended the Quad summit. After the conclusion of the summit, the Quad leaders in a joint statement had said that in addition to doses financed through COVAX, the four-nation bloc has pledged to donate more than 1.2 billion doses globally of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines and has so far delivered nearly 79 million safe, effective, and quality-assured vaccine doses to countries in the Indo-Pacific as part of those commitments. Observing that American healthcare experts are in regular touch with the Indian authorities and companies to provide technical assistance, the COO said the DFC provided financing of about USD 50 million for a new facility to be built for Biological E and a new factory, which will substantially expand its capacity to allow it to manufacture in excess of a billion doses. In addition to helping India expand its vaccine manufacturing capacity, DFC has been a major investor in India's other sectors as well, he said. We're a huge investor in India. We have USD 2.3 billion of investments already. We have a significant pipeline of over USD 1 billion. So, we would be one of the larger investors in India. Our goal is to catalyse private sector financial activity, he said. DFC, he said, is particularly focused on four sectors: climate, health, equity and gender opportunities and then technology. These are obviously four critical areas for the development of India's economy, Marchick observed. Also Read | COVID-19 vaccination in India crosses 1 billion. What about its neighbours? On climate, obviously the president (Biden) has said that climate is an existential threat. India is a linchpin in having the world address the climate crisis, Marchick said, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seized with the issue and India "has the most ambitious renewable energy strategy of any country in the world" and we want to help and be a solution provider for that. On gender equity, DFC's main goal is to provide financing for small and medium sized enterprises that are run by women, are owned by women. We have partnered with a number of financial institutions in India to provide them with liquidity and capital, which they can then lend to small and medium sized enterprises in India, the COO said. In technology, obviously India is a powerhouse and we provide financing for various technology missions, Marchick said. However, the main reason for the trip is vaccine and vaccine manufacturing.

US working with India on vaccine manufacturing to save people's lives: US DFC chief

The Food and Drug Administration on Friday said that it has concluded that the "overall benefits" of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 to 11 years old "may still outweigh the risks."&nbsp;

However, there have been reports of Myocarditis and pericarditis, which are two different types of heart inflammation, after the mRNA-based Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, typically after the second dose. According to the reports by CDC, the symptoms include chest pain, faster heartbeat and shortness of breath. The official website says, "[m]ost patients with myocarditis or pericarditis who received care responded well to medicine and rest and felt better quickly."

Most of the cases after the vaccine have occurred in younger males and required hospitalisations, says federal health officials. Although the data suggests cases are&nbsp;"rare."

In its review, the FDA has come up with a variety of "benefit-risk outcome" situations, which are based on different estimates of vaccine effectiveness and rates of COVID-19 in the community. It has been estimated that Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine would more frequently prevent COVID related cases in children than cause "excess myocarditis cases."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizers-kid-size-doses-91-effective-against-covid-19-study-423039">Also read |&nbsp;Pfizer's kid-size doses 91% effective against COVID-19: Study</a>

In case, the number of COVID-19 were to decrease in June, the FDA predicted the US might not see enough severe COVID-19 cases in children to outnumber the incidents of myocarditis or pericarditis. "The model results indicate that the benefits of the vaccine are highly dependent on the incidence of COVID-19," the FDA said.

Meanwhile, a recent study suggested that Pfizer's kid-size COVID-19 vaccine doses are 91 per cent effective against coronavirus and have been observed to be safe.

The study says that the kid-size doses of Pfizer’s vaccine are safe for children aged between 5 and 11. This study has come at a time when the US health experts have been mulling starting vaccine campaigns for younger children of the age group 5 to 11 years.

As of now, the US is already administering full-strength Pfizer shots to children aged 12 and above. However, experts and parents are anxiously awaiting kid-size doses.

This will help provide safety to children, especially as schools have started reopening and children are back in classrooms with their peers.

The Food and Drug Administration on Friday said that it has concluded that the "overall benefits" of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 to 11 years old "may still outweigh the risks.

The Food and Drug Administration on Friday said that it has concluded that the "overall benefits" of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 to 11 years old "may still outweigh the risks." However, there have been reports of Myocarditis and pericarditis, which are two different types of heart inflammation, after the mRNA-based Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, typically after the second dose. According to the reports by CDC, the symptoms include chest pain, faster heartbeat and shortness of breath. The official website says, "[m]ost patients with myocarditis or pericarditis who received care responded well to medicine and rest and felt better quickly." Most of the cases after the vaccine have occurred in younger males and required hospitalisations, says federal health officials. Although the data suggests cases are "rare." In its review, the FDA has come up with a variety of "benefit-risk outcome" situations, which are based on different estimates of vaccine effectiveness and rates of COVID-19 in the community. It has been estimated that Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine would more frequently prevent COVID related cases in children than cause "excess myocarditis cases." Also read | Pfizer's kid-size doses 91% effective against COVID-19: Study In case, the number of COVID-19 were to decrease in June, the FDA predicted the US might not see enough severe COVID-19 cases in children to outnumber the incidents of myocarditis or pericarditis. "The model results indicate that the benefits of the vaccine are highly dependent on the incidence of COVID-19," the FDA said. Meanwhile, a recent study suggested that Pfizer's kid-size COVID-19 vaccine doses are 91 per cent effective against coronavirus and have been observed to be safe. The study says that the kid-size doses of Pfizer’s vaccine are safe for children aged between 5 and 11. This study has come at a time when the US health experts have been mulling starting vaccine campaigns for younger children of the age group 5 to 11 years. As of now, the US is already administering full-strength Pfizer shots to children aged 12 and above. However, experts and parents are anxiously awaiting kid-size doses. This will help provide safety to children, especially as schools have started reopening and children are back in classrooms with their peers.

FDA highlights risk of myocarditis in review of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for kids 5-11

In a vaccine century for India, the country has administered 100 crores (1 billion) doses of Wuhan Virus vaccines. This is twice the number of doses administered by the US, 5 times that of Japan, and 10 times the doses administered by France. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: India administers 1 Billion doses of Wuhan Virus vaccines

It is a big day for India as today it achieved the historic milestone of completing 1 billion (100 crores) doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, nine months after it launched “the world’s biggest vaccination drive”. WION's principal correspondent Siddhant Sibal brings all the latest developments.

'India scripted history,' PM Narendra Modi hails India's COVID-19 vaccine drive

Is Pfizer putting profits above lives? Public Citizen, a non-profit organization says that Pfizer can stop countries from speaking about contracts, block vaccine donations, unilaterally change delivery schedules & demand public assets as collateral. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Revealed: How Pfizer blackmails countries for shots

It is a big day for India as today it achieved the historic milestone of completing 1 billion (100 crores) doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, nine months after it launched “the world’s biggest vaccination drive”.

India celebrates historic milestone, hits 1 billion Covid-19 vaccine milestone

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