Declassified US intelligence reports claiming the COVID-19 pandemic could have originated in a lab are unscientific and without credibility, says a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry.

According to the updated US intelligence briefing published on Saturday, both a natural origin and a lab leak could explain how SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, first infected humans, though the truth may never be known.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-may-never-know-how-covid-19-originated-say-us-intelligence-officials-425224">We may never know how COVID-19 originated, say US intelligence officials</a>

The spokesperson, Wang Wenbin responded on the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website by saying that "a lie repeated a thousand times is still a lie", adding that US intelligence services are known for their "fraud and deception".

"The tracing of the origins of the novel Coronavirus is a serious and complex issue that should and can only be researched through the cooperation of global scientists," he said.

Despite persistent allegations, China has consistently denied that the virus came from a specialist laboratory in Wuhan, the Chinese city where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> was first identified at the end of 2019.

Wang also reiterated China's call for the United States to open up its own Fort Detrick laboratory to international experts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-it-is-last-chance-to-find-origin-of-covid-19-420559">WHO says it is 'last chance' to find origin of COVID-19</a>

Earlier WHO report on COVID-19 origins

Earlier this year, China and the World Health Organization (WHO) published a joint study that all but ruled out the hypothesis that COVID-19 originated in a laboratory, saying it was more likely that it had infected humans naturally, perhaps through the wildlife trade.

The study, however, was critiqued for failing to investigate the Wuhan labs and for not examining the raw data necessary to understand the virus's early transmission routes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-accuses-us-of-politicisation-and-scapegoating-over-covid-19-origin-report-408395">China accuses US of 'politicisation' and 'scapegoating' over COVID-19 origin report</a>

Earlier this month, the WHO also established a Scientific Advisory Group on Novel Pathogens Origins (SAGO) and had called on China to supply raw data to aid any further investigation. The Chinese government however has declined, citing rules governing patient privacy.

A group of scientists, in an open letter written last week to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, stated that while they welcomed an investigation into COVID-19's origin, the proposed SAGO panel lacked the necessary skills and impartiality.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The Lab Leak Theory

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A few days later, on Monday, the WHO suddenly reopened applications for its SAGO panel for three days, seeking experts in social science, anthropology, ethics, political science, and Biosafety/biosecurity.

It is still unclear whether any of the 26 previously announced nominees had withdrawn or whether the panel is being enlarged. Following the publication of WHO's list on Oct 13, a two-week public consultation period was held to allow for public feedback.

(With inputs from agencies)

Declassified US intelligence reports claiming the COVID-19 pandemic could have originated in a lab are unscientific and without credibility, says a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry.

Declassified US intelligence reports claiming the COVID-19 pandemic could have originated in a lab are unscientific and without credibility, says a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry. According to the updated US intelligence briefing published on Saturday, both a natural origin and a lab leak could explain how SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, first infected humans, though the truth may never be known. Also read | We may never know how COVID-19 originated, say US intelligence officials The spokesperson, Wang Wenbin responded on the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website by saying that "a lie repeated a thousand times is still a lie", adding that US intelligence services are known for their "fraud and deception". "The tracing of the origins of the novel Coronavirus is a serious and complex issue that should and can only be researched through the cooperation of global scientists," he said. Despite persistent allegations, China has consistently denied that the virus came from a specialist laboratory in Wuhan, the Chinese city where COVID-19 was first identified at the end of 2019. Wang also reiterated China's call for the United States to open up its own Fort Detrick laboratory to international experts. Also read | WHO says it is 'last chance' to find origin of COVID-19 Earlier WHO report on COVID-19 origins Earlier this year, China and the World Health Organization (WHO) published a joint study that all but ruled out the hypothesis that COVID-19 originated in a laboratory, saying it was more likely that it had infected humans naturally, perhaps through the wildlife trade. The study, however, was critiqued for failing to investigate the Wuhan labs and for not examining the raw data necessary to understand the virus's early transmission routes. Also read | China accuses US of 'politicisation' and 'scapegoating' over COVID-19 origin report Earlier this month, the WHO also established a Scientific Advisory Group on Novel Pathogens Origins (SAGO) and had called on China to supply raw data to aid any further investigation. The Chinese government however has declined, citing rules governing patient privacy. A group of scientists, in an open letter written last week to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, stated that while they welcomed an investigation into COVID-19's origin, the proposed SAGO panel lacked the necessary skills and impartiality. Watch | Gravitas Plus: The Lab Leak Theory A few days later, on Monday, the WHO suddenly reopened applications for its SAGO panel for three days, seeking experts in social science, anthropology, ethics, political science, and Biosafety/biosecurity. It is still unclear whether any of the 26 previously announced nominees had withdrawn or whether the panel is being enlarged. Following the publication of WHO's list on Oct 13, a two-week public consultation period was held to allow for public feedback. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid origins: China says US report without credibility, intelligence services known for 'fraud and deception'

In an open letter, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have urged the global leaders to eliminate the "devastating" coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine inequity and also end the pandemic once and for all. Harry and Meghan also stated that "promises aren't translating" into vaccines reaching the people that need them.&nbsp;

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have partnered with Tedros Adhanom, the director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise the issue to&nbsp;the leaders at the G20 Summit that how low-income countries are suffering due to a lack of access to COVID-19 vaccines.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-ed-sheeran-sticks-with-a-familiar-formula-on-%E2%80%98%E2%80%99-425205">Ed Sheeran sticks with a familiar formula on ‘=’</a>

The letter, which is published on the official site of the WHO read: "Of the almost 7 billion doses that have been administered globally, just 3 percent of people in low-income countries have had a jab so far. Where are the rest?"&nbsp;

"COVAX, the initiative designed to help achieve fair global access to COVID vaccines, has been promised 1.3 billion doses to be donated for the low-income countries it supports, yet it has been able to ship only 150 million - 11.5 percent – to date. Where are the rest?" the letter read.&nbsp;

The letter also stressed&nbsp;that millions of surplus vaccines are getting wasted once they expire, however, every discarded dose of a COVID-19 vaccine is a matter of outrage as they could have been donated. The letter noted that each dose of vaccine represents a real person, who could have been protected.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-american-music-awards-2021-bts-ariana-grande-nominated-for-artist-of-the-year-read-for-details-425193">American Music Awards 2021: BTS, Ariana Grande nominated for Artist of the Year; read for details</a>

Leaders of the world's 20 biggest economies endorsed on Saturday a global minimum tax aimed at stopping big business from hiding profits in tax havens, and also agreed to get more Covid vaccines to poorer nations.&nbsp;

Attending their first in-person summit in two years, G20 leaders broadly backed calls to extend debt relief for impoverished countries and pledged to vaccinate 70 per cent of the world's population against COVID-19 by mid-2022.&nbsp;

"There are many crises that you – the stewards of our planet – must grapple with this weekend: the climate emergency, the state of our global economy, a recommitment to multilateralism. Yet, in many ways, making headway on these priorities depends on whether we can beat this pandemic," the letter included.&nbsp;

"Cooperation of historic proportion is the only solution. Lives literally depend on it," Harry and Meghan concluded in the letter.&nbsp;

In an open letter, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have urged the global leaders to eliminate the "devastating" coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine inequity and also end the pandemic once and for all.

In an open letter, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have urged the global leaders to eliminate the "devastating" coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine inequity and also end the pandemic once and for all. Harry and Meghan also stated that "promises aren't translating" into vaccines reaching the people that need them. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have partnered with Tedros Adhanom, the director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise the issue to the leaders at the G20 Summit that how low-income countries are suffering due to a lack of access to COVID-19 vaccines. ALSO READ | Ed Sheeran sticks with a familiar formula on ‘=’ The letter, which is published on the official site of the WHO read: "Of the almost 7 billion doses that have been administered globally, just 3 percent of people in low-income countries have had a jab so far. Where are the rest?" "COVAX, the initiative designed to help achieve fair global access to COVID vaccines, has been promised 1.3 billion doses to be donated for the low-income countries it supports, yet it has been able to ship only 150 million - 11.5 percent – to date. Where are the rest?" the letter read. The letter also stressed that millions of surplus vaccines are getting wasted once they expire, however, every discarded dose of a COVID-19 vaccine is a matter of outrage as they could have been donated. The letter noted that each dose of vaccine represents a real person, who could have been protected. ALSO READ | American Music Awards 2021: BTS, Ariana Grande nominated for Artist of the Year; read for details Leaders of the world's 20 biggest economies endorsed on Saturday a global minimum tax aimed at stopping big business from hiding profits in tax havens, and also agreed to get more Covid vaccines to poorer nations. Attending their first in-person summit in two years, G20 leaders broadly backed calls to extend debt relief for impoverished countries and pledged to vaccinate 70 per cent of the world's population against COVID-19 by mid-2022. "There are many crises that you – the stewards of our planet – must grapple with this weekend: the climate emergency, the state of our global economy, a recommitment to multilateralism. Yet, in many ways, making headway on these priorities depends on whether we can beat this pandemic," the letter included. "Cooperation of historic proportion is the only solution. Lives literally depend on it," Harry and Meghan concluded in the letter.

'Promises aren't translating': Harry and Meghan urge G20 leaders to address COVID-19 vaccine inequity

W.H.O. Chief Dr.Tedros delayed declaring the Wuhan virus a pandemic, he defended and covered up for China, he also sat on vaccine approvals. Instead of holding Dr. Tedros accountable, countries are now nominating him for a second term. Palki Sharma says Dr. Tedros must go.

Gravitas: W.H.O. Chief Dr. Tedros stands unopposed for re-election

The chairman of European Union leaders said on Friday he was cautiously optimistic about the prospects of a global treaty on future pandemics, with the World Health Organization (WHO) due to decide by the end of November whether to launch talks on it.

The WHO and the EU hope a treaty on future pandemics would help prevent the initial chaos when the novel coronavirus started spreading around the world from China in late 2019 and early 2020, causing a deep global recession as countries went into lockdowns to prevent mass infections.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pressure-of-blackmail-eu-court-imposes-massive-fine-of-over-1-million-per-day-on-poland-424592">'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland</a>

Speaking on the sidelines of the summit of leaders of the world's 20 biggest economies (G20), Charles Michel told reporters such a treaty would spell out how to better prevent and detect pandemics and share data.

It would also provide a framework for coordination and cooperation in dealing with future pandemics, for vaccine production and for sharing intellectual property for vaccine and treatment technology through the World Trade Organisation.

"I am cautiously optimistic. It means I feel that it goes in the right direction, but there are still difficulties," said Michel, who launched the treaty idea in November 2020. It was endorsed by all 27 EU leaders last May.

Watch |&nbsp;G20 summit in Rome: India to raise issues related to cross border terrorism

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He said the General Assembly of the WHO would decide next month what mandate to endorse for such treaty negotiations, a decision that could be crucial to win the support of countries like China.

"In principle, China is positive. But it is not a simple 'yes'&nbsp;or 'no'&nbsp;-- it is more complex than that. It is based on what will be the exact mandate that will be given," Michel said.

"A 'yes'&nbsp;with some caveats that, in fact, could mean: 'we are not yet convinced'," he said, adding that talks over the next two weeks would be crucial for securing a green light for the project.

The chairman of European Union leaders said on Friday he was cautiously optimistic about the prospects of a global treaty on future pandemics, with the World Health Organization (WHO) due to decide by the end of November whether to launch talks on it.

The chairman of European Union leaders said on Friday he was cautiously optimistic about the prospects of a global treaty on future pandemics, with the World Health Organization (WHO) due to decide by the end of November whether to launch talks on it. The WHO and the EU hope a treaty on future pandemics would help prevent the initial chaos when the novel coronavirus started spreading around the world from China in late 2019 and early 2020, causing a deep global recession as countries went into lockdowns to prevent mass infections. Also Read | 'Pressure of blackmail': EU court imposes massive fine of over $1 million per day on Poland Speaking on the sidelines of the summit of leaders of the world's 20 biggest economies (G20), Charles Michel told reporters such a treaty would spell out how to better prevent and detect pandemics and share data. It would also provide a framework for coordination and cooperation in dealing with future pandemics, for vaccine production and for sharing intellectual property for vaccine and treatment technology through the World Trade Organisation. "I am cautiously optimistic. It means I feel that it goes in the right direction, but there are still difficulties," said Michel, who launched the treaty idea in November 2020. It was endorsed by all 27 EU leaders last May. Watch | G20 summit in Rome: India to raise issues related to cross border terrorism He said the General Assembly of the WHO would decide next month what mandate to endorse for such treaty negotiations, a decision that could be crucial to win the support of countries like China. "In principle, China is positive. But it is not a simple 'yes' or 'no' -- it is more complex than that. It is based on what will be the exact mandate that will be given," Michel said. "A 'yes' with some caveats that, in fact, could mean: 'we are not yet convinced'," he said, adding that talks over the next two weeks would be crucial for securing a green light for the project.

EU leaders' chairman cautiously optimistic on global treaty on pandemics

70-year-old Shekhar Bhandari has been waiting patiently for months for the Indian-made COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin, to get approval from the World Health Organization.

His parents, aged 91and 87, have been stuck in the US. Shekhar and his family—all based in Delhi— had gone to California via Dubai early this year to visit their relatives.

Later in July, Shekhar and his daughter came back to New Delhi, but he left his parents back in the US, as it was the time when the Delta variant was raging in India.

Now that the pandemic has ebbed considerably in India, Shekhar wants to travel to US again to get his parents back. However, he has been unable to do so.

The reason—US allows entry for only those non-citizens who have been jabbed with vaccines approved by it or the WHO.

Watch: Covaxin delay: Protocol or prejudice?

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And the only Indian made vaccine that has been approved by the WHO is ‘Covishield’— the Indian variant of AstraZeneca’s jab.

Like Shekhar, there are millions of Indians who took Covaxin and have been unable to travel as the vaccine is still not recognised in many foreign nations, including the US and the EU.

His daughter, Shraddha Bhandari, 37, says almost everyone in her family have taken the Covaxin jab.

“My father took Covaxin earlier this year when the government started inoculation drive for the senior citizens. We are a family of doctors. We sought Covaxin because it was based on tested methods and also because it was made by one of the biggest pharmaceutical companies in India (Bharat Biotech) which made the polio vaccine,” Shraddha told WION.

Even as she tries to figure out how to bring their grandparents back, Shraddha says the travel visas of her grandparents are about to expire. The US travel visas expire within 6 months.

“We have been waiting since September this year for the WHO to approve Covaxin. My father has been trying hard to get my grandparents back to India. Now, we don’t know what to do. My grandparents’ visas are also about to expire,” she said.

The wait for the approval for Shekhar as well as tens of thousands of other Indians stuck at home after taking Covaxin will be longer than expected. On Wednesday, the WHO sought “additional clarifications” from the vaccine manufacturer Bharat Biotech regarding its COVID-19 vaccine 'Covaxin' for a final "risk-benefit assessment" before recommending the vaccine for emergency use.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delayed-again-who-seeks-more-clarifications-on-made-in-india-covid-shot-covaxin-424319">Delayed again: WHO seeks more 'clarifications' on made-in-India Covid shot Covaxin</a>

The WHO said it expects to receive these clarifications from Bharat Biotech by the end of this week, i.e. by November 3.

Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and AstraZeneca and Oxford University's Covishield are the two widely used vaccines in India.

The WHO has so far approved Covid-19 vaccines of Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca-SK Bio/Serum Institute of India, Johnson &amp; Johnson-Janssen, Moderna, and Sinopharm for emergency use.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaccinated-but-stuck-indians-await-who-nod-for-homegrown-shot-to-travel-abroad-424093">Vaccinated but stuck: Indians await WHO nod for homegrown shot to travel abroad</a>

70-year-old Shekhar Bhandari has been waiting patiently for months for the Indian-made COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin, to get approval from the World Health Organization.

70-year-old Shekhar Bhandari has been waiting patiently for months for the Indian-made COVID-19 vaccine, Covaxin, to get approval from the World Health Organization. His parents, aged 91and 87, have been stuck in the US. Shekhar and his family—all based in Delhi— had gone to California via Dubai early this year to visit their relatives. Later in July, Shekhar and his daughter came back to New Delhi, but he left his parents back in the US, as it was the time when the Delta variant was raging in India. Now that the pandemic has ebbed considerably in India, Shekhar wants to travel to US again to get his parents back. However, he has been unable to do so. The reason—US allows entry for only those non-citizens who have been jabbed with vaccines approved by it or the WHO. Watch: Covaxin delay: Protocol or prejudice? × And the only Indian made vaccine that has been approved by the WHO is ‘Covishield’— the Indian variant of AstraZeneca’s jab. Like Shekhar, there are millions of Indians who took Covaxin and have been unable to travel as the vaccine is still not recognised in many foreign nations, including the US and the EU. His daughter, Shraddha Bhandari, 37, says almost everyone in her family have taken the Covaxin jab. “My father took Covaxin earlier this year when the government started inoculation drive for the senior citizens. We are a family of doctors. We sought Covaxin because it was based on tested methods and also because it was made by one of the biggest pharmaceutical companies in India (Bharat Biotech) which made the polio vaccine,” Shraddha told WION. Even as she tries to figure out how to bring their grandparents back, Shraddha says the travel visas of her grandparents are about to expire. The US travel visas expire within 6 months. “We have been waiting since September this year for the WHO to approve Covaxin. My father has been trying hard to get my grandparents back to India. Now, we don’t know what to do. My grandparents’ visas are also about to expire,” she said. The wait for the approval for Shekhar as well as tens of thousands of other Indians stuck at home after taking Covaxin will be longer than expected. On Wednesday, the WHO sought “additional clarifications” from the vaccine manufacturer Bharat Biotech regarding its COVID-19 vaccine 'Covaxin' for a final "risk-benefit assessment" before recommending the vaccine for emergency use. Also read: Delayed again: WHO seeks more 'clarifications' on made-in-India Covid shot Covaxin The WHO said it expects to receive these clarifications from Bharat Biotech by the end of this week, i.e. by November 3. Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and AstraZeneca and Oxford University's Covishield are the two widely used vaccines in India. The WHO has so far approved Covid-19 vaccines of Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca-SK Bio/Serum Institute of India, Johnson & Johnson-Janssen, Moderna, and Sinopharm for emergency use. Also read: Vaccinated but stuck: Indians await WHO nod for homegrown shot to travel abroad

As WHO delays approval for Covaxin jab, every minute is an eternity for this Indian family

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who has steered the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is on course to serve a second five-year term as head of the World Health Organization (WHO) after being the only candidate nominated by 28 countries.

Tedros, a former health and foreign minister of Ethiopia, was the first African elected WHO director-general in May 2017.

The clean slate for the May election comes even as the European Commission suspending funding to WHO programmes in the Democratic Republic of Congo over a major sexual abuse scandal, as reported exclusively by Reuters on Thursday.

Some 83 aid workers, a quarter of them employed by the WHO, were involved in sexual exploitation and abuse during Congo's 2018-2020 Ebola epidemic, an independent probe said last month.

Health ministers from the WHO's 194 member states are also due to hold an exceptional assembly in November amid mounting pressure for reform pursuant to the organisation's handling of the pandemic.

Tedros drew support from France and Germany, among other European Union members, and three African countries - Botswana, Kenya and Rwanda - the official nomination list showed. Britain, China, Russia and the United States were not among them.

"WHO can announce that a single candidate was proposed by member states by the 23 September 2021 deadline: Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who is the incumbent director-general," the agency said in a statement. The nominations were kept secret to limit lengthy campaigning.

Earlier, the agency sent a letter to member states informing them of the confidential nominations contained in the sealed envelopes submitted by the deadline

Ethiopia declined to nominate Tedros for a second term due to friction over the conflict in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia, making it necessary for other countries to step in and do so.

The issue is so sensitive that the African Union has not even discussed the appointment, including at its latest summit this month, African diplomats said.

Tedros has led the global response to COVID-19, the worst public health crisis in a century, which broke out in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019 and has killed 5.2 million people.

The United States, under former President Donald Trump, accused him of being "China-centric", a charge he denies.

Relations have warmed since Joe Biden's administration took office in January.

But he annoyed China with public calls in July for it to share Wuhan lab audits and provide more data on early COVID-19 cases. WHO investigators have yet to regain access to the country to probe the origins of coronavirus.

"STAYING POWER"

The United States and Germany have led major donors in demanding fundamental reforms to the WHO's structure, financing and capacity to deal with outbreaks.

The European Commission informed the WHO on Oct. 7 that it was immediately suspending funding to its Congo programmes due to concerns over its handling of the sexual abuse scandal. Tedros went to Congo 14 times during the epidemic but says that he was unaware of the allegations.

"We have received the (EU) letter and we are now considering a response," WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris told a briefing on Friday.

A European source, asked whether the Congo scandal could have an impact on Tedros' re-election, said: "Nope. He personally is taking the right steps and measures. As long as there is not a direct link to him. Which I don’t see."

An African ambassador in Geneva, declining to be identified, said: “Dr. Tedros has done a very good job dealing with a severe pandemic with severe repercussions. He has tried to contribute within the capacity and the resources of WHO and to realize a more equitable distribution of vaccines at the global level."

“He is a friend of Africa, he has done a lot of work and deserves a lot of support," the ambassador said.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, speaking at a news briefing with Tedros on Thursday, where the WHO launched a $23.4 billion plan to bring COVID-19 vaccines and drugs to poorer countries, told him:

"I wish you all luck in your endeavour and I salute your staying power and your ability to keep focus on this agenda, servicing your broad membership and the whole world."

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who has steered the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is on course to serve a second five-year term as head of the World Health Organization (WHO) after being the only candidate nominated by 28 countries.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who has steered the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is on course to serve a second five-year term as head of the World Health Organization (WHO) after being the only candidate nominated by 28 countries. Tedros, a former health and foreign minister of Ethiopia, was the first African elected WHO director-general in May 2017. The clean slate for the May election comes even as the European Commission suspending funding to WHO programmes in the Democratic Republic of Congo over a major sexual abuse scandal, as reported exclusively by Reuters on Thursday. Some 83 aid workers, a quarter of them employed by the WHO, were involved in sexual exploitation and abuse during Congo's 2018-2020 Ebola epidemic, an independent probe said last month. Health ministers from the WHO's 194 member states are also due to hold an exceptional assembly in November amid mounting pressure for reform pursuant to the organisation's handling of the pandemic. Tedros drew support from France and Germany, among other European Union members, and three African countries - Botswana, Kenya and Rwanda - the official nomination list showed. Britain, China, Russia and the United States were not among them. "WHO can announce that a single candidate was proposed by member states by the 23 September 2021 deadline: Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who is the incumbent director-general," the agency said in a statement. The nominations were kept secret to limit lengthy campaigning. Earlier, the agency sent a letter to member states informing them of the confidential nominations contained in the sealed envelopes submitted by the deadline Ethiopia declined to nominate Tedros for a second term due to friction over the conflict in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia, making it necessary for other countries to step in and do so. The issue is so sensitive that the African Union has not even discussed the appointment, including at its latest summit this month, African diplomats said. Tedros has led the global response to COVID-19, the worst public health crisis in a century, which broke out in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019 and has killed 5.2 million people. The United States, under former President Donald Trump, accused him of being "China-centric", a charge he denies. Relations have warmed since Joe Biden's administration took office in January. But he annoyed China with public calls in July for it to share Wuhan lab audits and provide more data on early COVID-19 cases. WHO investigators have yet to regain access to the country to probe the origins of coronavirus. "STAYING POWER" The United States and Germany have led major donors in demanding fundamental reforms to the WHO's structure, financing and capacity to deal with outbreaks. The European Commission informed the WHO on Oct. 7 that it was immediately suspending funding to its Congo programmes due to concerns over its handling of the sexual abuse scandal. Tedros went to Congo 14 times during the epidemic but says that he was unaware of the allegations. "We have received the (EU) letter and we are now considering a response," WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris told a briefing on Friday. A European source, asked whether the Congo scandal could have an impact on Tedros' re-election, said: "Nope. He personally is taking the right steps and measures. As long as there is not a direct link to him. Which I don’t see." An African ambassador in Geneva, declining to be identified, said: “Dr. Tedros has done a very good job dealing with a severe pandemic with severe repercussions. He has tried to contribute within the capacity and the resources of WHO and to realize a more equitable distribution of vaccines at the global level." “He is a friend of Africa, he has done a lot of work and deserves a lot of support," the ambassador said. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, speaking at a news briefing with Tedros on Thursday, where the WHO launched a $23.4 billion plan to bring COVID-19 vaccines and drugs to poorer countries, told him: "I wish you all luck in your endeavour and I salute your staying power and your ability to keep focus on this agenda, servicing your broad membership and the whole world."

Tedros sole nominee as WHO chief, UN agency says

As thousands of Indians who used to work or live abroad are stuck at home country due to lack of global recognition for Covaxin jab which they had taken, the WHO has again delayed approval for the made-in-India Covid shot.

The World Health Organization's technical advisory group on Tuesday requested "additional clarifications" from makers Bharat Biotech for Covaxin in order to conduct a final "risk-benefit assessment" for Emergency Use Listing of the vaccine.

According to a source, the WHO Technical Advisory Group has requested more explanation from vaccine maker Bharat Biotech before deciding whether or not to award Covaxin EUL clearance. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaccinated-but-stuck-indians-await-who-nod-for-homegrown-shot-to-travel-abroad-424093">Also read | Vaccinated but stuck: Indians await WHO nod for homegrown shot to travel abroad</a>

In a meeting on Tuesday, the WHO's Technical Advisory Group decided to do the final risk assessment after obtaining further data from the manufacturer.

Bharat Biotech, situated in Hyderabad, is due to submit the findings this weekend.

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“The @WHO independent Technical Advisory Group (TAG) met today &amp; asked for additional clarifications from the manufacturer @BharatBiotech to conduct a final EUL risk-benefit assessment for global use of #Covaxin. It will reconvene for the final assessment on Wednesday, 3 November if data is received soon," WHO chief scientist Dr Soumya Swaminathan said in a tweet.

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Update: The <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> independent TAG met today &amp; asked for addnl clarifications from the manufacturer <a href="https://twitter.com/BharatBiotech?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BharatBiotech</a> to conduct a final EUL risk-benefit assessment for global use of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covaxin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covaxin</a>. It will reconvene for the final assessment on Wednesday, 3 November if data received soon
— Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) <a href="https://twitter.com/doctorsoumya/status/1453120421293871118?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Watch | Covaxin: WHO to meet for emergency use listing

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On November 3, the Technical Advisory Group may convene for the final risk-benefit analysis.&nbsp;

The Technical Advisory Group for Emergency Use Listing (TAG-EUL) advises WHO on whether or not the COVID-19 vaccine should be listed for emergency use under the EUL protocol.&nbsp; 
 
Last week, the WHO stated that it is awaiting one more piece of information from Bharat Biotech on Covaxin and that it must properly analyse vaccines to verify their safety and that it "cannot take shortcuts" before endorsing one for emergency use.

The timing for the UN health agency's Emergency Use Listing method is contingent on how soon a vaccine manufacturer can supply the data needed for WHO to assess the vaccine's quality, safety, effectiveness, and appropriateness for low- and middle-income countries.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As thousands of Indians who used to work or live abroad are stuck at home country due to lack of global recognition for Covaxin jab which they had taken, the WHO has again delayed approval for the made-in-India Covid shot.

As thousands of Indians who used to work or live abroad are stuck at home country due to lack of global recognition for Covaxin jab which they had taken, the WHO has again delayed approval for the made-in-India Covid shot. The World Health Organization's technical advisory group on Tuesday requested "additional clarifications" from makers Bharat Biotech for Covaxin in order to conduct a final "risk-benefit assessment" for Emergency Use Listing of the vaccine. According to a source, the WHO Technical Advisory Group has requested more explanation from vaccine maker Bharat Biotech before deciding whether or not to award Covaxin EUL clearance. Also read | Vaccinated but stuck: Indians await WHO nod for homegrown shot to travel abroad In a meeting on Tuesday, the WHO's Technical Advisory Group decided to do the final risk assessment after obtaining further data from the manufacturer. Bharat Biotech, situated in Hyderabad, is due to submit the findings this weekend. The WHO technical advisory group will meet on November 3 for a final assessment. × “The @WHO independent Technical Advisory Group (TAG) met today & asked for additional clarifications from the manufacturer @BharatBiotech to conduct a final EUL risk-benefit assessment for global use of #Covaxin. It will reconvene for the final assessment on Wednesday, 3 November if data is received soon," WHO chief scientist Dr Soumya Swaminathan said in a tweet. Update: The @WHO independent TAG met today & asked for addnl clarifications from the manufacturer @BharatBiotech to conduct a final EUL risk-benefit assessment for global use of #Covaxin. It will reconvene for the final assessment on Wednesday, 3 November if data received soon — Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) October 26, 2021 × Watch | Covaxin: WHO to meet for emergency use listing On November 3, the Technical Advisory Group may convene for the final risk-benefit analysis. The Technical Advisory Group for Emergency Use Listing (TAG-EUL) advises WHO on whether or not the COVID-19 vaccine should be listed for emergency use under the EUL protocol. Last week, the WHO stated that it is awaiting one more piece of information from Bharat Biotech on Covaxin and that it must properly analyse vaccines to verify their safety and that it "cannot take shortcuts" before endorsing one for emergency use. The timing for the UN health agency's Emergency Use Listing method is contingent on how soon a vaccine manufacturer can supply the data needed for WHO to assess the vaccine's quality, safety, effectiveness, and appropriateness for low- and middle-income countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Delayed again: WHO seeks more 'clarifications' on made-in-India Covid shot Covaxin

Majority of the first-world and rich countries have managed to fully vaccinate at least half of its population against coronavirus. However, the whole continent of Africa has only been able to vaccinate five per cent of the total population.<o:p></o:p>

All over the world, nearly six billion doses of Covid vaccines have been administered but only 50 million people have been vaccinated in Africa. One main reason behind this huge difference is that the continent is largely dependent on other nations for supply of vaccines.<o:p></o:p>

However, Afrigen Biologics and Vaccines have now been tasked to figure out how are the mRNA vaccines against coronavirus can be made, which are somewhat similar to Moderna's Covid shots.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-scientists-are-using-reverse-engineering-technique-to-replicate-moderna-vaccine-424096">South Africa: Scientists are using reverse engineering technique to replicate Moderna vaccine</a></o:p>

"We know that six billion doses of vaccines have been administered, only 50 million people in Africa have been vaccinated," Petro Terblanche, Managing Director, Afrigen Biologics (pty) Ltd told WION. "That contrast is so glaring that we as a continent can no longer ignore the facts that we are too dependent on other countries and other organiser companies outside of our own region to supply vaccines."<o:p></o:p>

The company is&nbsp;planning to develop a technology transfer hub to ensure that manufacturers from all over the world can come together to celebrate and help citizens of their country.<o:p></o:p>

This platform will take nearly two to three years to be completed. "The hub, the platform was not created only for Covid. Covid is the catalyst and is the emergency, this was created for future production of vaccines required by lower middle-income countries," Terblanche told WION. "Now, there are only about 22 vaccines that are important for the burden for disease in Africa and other lower middle-income countries. This initiative is power of the Africa manufacturing strategy to establish capacity for own vaccine manufacturing."

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/those-vaccinated-last-year-with-moderna-are-twice-likely-to-contract-covid-study-413571">Those vaccinated last year with Moderna are twice likely to contract Covid: Study</a><o:p></o:p>

However, the experts are not worried about the time this development is going to take. Terblanche explained that since Covid is still evolving in form of different variants, they believe that it is still going to take some years for this pandemic to completely eradicate. So, even if it takes three years to develop, it can help people as the experts aim to develop an improved vaccine which will be, hopefully, able to fight the new variants of concern too.<o:p></o:p>

She also admitted that the company has been facing a lot of pressure "about time, technology precision, regulatory requirements and around the dynamics that Moderna and Pfizer signing agreements with everyone but us," she laughed. However, she also added that the support from WHO experts and shareholders, along with the determined team makes them look at the positive side of this pressure.<o:p></o:p>

Majority of the first-world and rich countries have managed to fully vaccinate at least half of its population against coronavirus. However, the whole continent of Africa has only been able to vaccinate five per cent of the total population.

Majority of the first-world and rich countries have managed to fully vaccinate at least half of its population against coronavirus. However, the whole continent of Africa has only been able to vaccinate five per cent of the total population. All over the world, nearly six billion doses of Covid vaccines have been administered but only 50 million people have been vaccinated in Africa. One main reason behind this huge difference is that the continent is largely dependent on other nations for supply of vaccines. However, Afrigen Biologics and Vaccines have now been tasked to figure out how are the mRNA vaccines against coronavirus can be made, which are somewhat similar to Moderna's Covid shots. Also read | South Africa: Scientists are using reverse engineering technique to replicate Moderna vaccine "We know that six billion doses of vaccines have been administered, only 50 million people in Africa have been vaccinated," Petro Terblanche, Managing Director, Afrigen Biologics (pty) Ltd told WION. "That contrast is so glaring that we as a continent can no longer ignore the facts that we are too dependent on other countries and other organiser companies outside of our own region to supply vaccines." The company is planning to develop a technology transfer hub to ensure that manufacturers from all over the world can come together to celebrate and help citizens of their country. This platform will take nearly two to three years to be completed. "The hub, the platform was not created only for Covid. Covid is the catalyst and is the emergency, this was created for future production of vaccines required by lower middle-income countries," Terblanche told WION. "Now, there are only about 22 vaccines that are important for the burden for disease in Africa and other lower middle-income countries. This initiative is power of the Africa manufacturing strategy to establish capacity for own vaccine manufacturing." Also read | Those vaccinated last year with Moderna are twice likely to contract Covid: Study However, the experts are not worried about the time this development is going to take. Terblanche explained that since Covid is still evolving in form of different variants, they believe that it is still going to take some years for this pandemic to completely eradicate. So, even if it takes three years to develop, it can help people as the experts aim to develop an improved vaccine which will be, hopefully, able to fight the new variants of concern too. She also admitted that the company has been facing a lot of pressure "about time, technology precision, regulatory requirements and around the dynamics that Moderna and Pfizer signing agreements with everyone but us," she laughed. However, she also added that the support from WHO experts and shareholders, along with the determined team makes them look at the positive side of this pressure.

Exclusive: South African company hired to decode Moderna vaccine's recipe talks to WION

The World Health Organization (WHO) seeks 'additional clarifications' from Bharat Biotech for Covaxin to conduct a final 'risk-benefit assessment' for emergency use listing of the vaccine.

No WHO approval for Bharat Biotech' Covaxin as panel wants more details

Stuck in a village in southern India for nine months and unable to return to his job in Saudi Arabia, Sugathan PR&nbsp;is hoping the World Health Organization will approve the Indian COVID-19 shot Covaxin, paving the way for his trip back.

Like Sugathan, millions of Indians have taken Covaxin and many have complained of travel struggles as the vaccine has not been recognised for international travel by several countries.

"I cannot continue to remain idle here any further," said 57-year-old Sugathan, who returned to Pandalam village in Kerala in January to be with his family after missing his father's funeral last year when the pandemic disrupted flights.

"I had the option of going to Saudi and taking (additional doses of) Covishield after a four-day institutional quarantine, but I was not sure of its implications on my health," said Sugathan, referring to AstraZeneca's vaccine.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-administer-next-billion-vaccines-in-next-3-4-months-vaccine-panel-head-422967">India to administer next billion vaccines in next 3-4 months: Vaccine panel head</a>

"If the Covaxin approval does not come, I will take the risk of going and taking a Saudi-approved vaccine," he added, sitting in his spacious two-storey house fronted by paddy fields.

The WHO is expected to take a final call on an emergency-use listing for Covaxin on Tuesday.

It has deliberated on data supplied by manufacturer Bharat Biotech since early July but has said it could not "cut corners" in making a decision.

Without a WHO nod, the two-dose Covaxin is unlikely to be accepted as a valid vaccine globally and would complicate travel plans for Indians who have taken it.

Rajan Pallivadakethil Unnunni, 59, who worked in Kuwait as a welder for two decades before flying to India late last year, has been unable to go back as Kuwait does not recognise Covaxin.

He is now struggling to repay his $20,000 bank loan selling chicken at a small stall in Kerala and making $4 a day.

"If I cannot go back to Kuwait, I will not be able to repay the loan and complete the education of my children," said Rajan, seated on a plastic stool in front of his shop.

"I can buy a ticket to Kuwait only if the Kuwait government app shows a green signal."

Stuck in a village in southern India for nine months and unable to return to his job in Saudi Arabia, Sugathan PR is hoping the World Health Organization will approve the Indian COVID-19 shot Covaxin, paving the way for his trip back.

Stuck in a village in southern India for nine months and unable to return to his job in Saudi Arabia, Sugathan PR is hoping the World Health Organization will approve the Indian COVID-19 shot Covaxin, paving the way for his trip back. Like Sugathan, millions of Indians have taken Covaxin and many have complained of travel struggles as the vaccine has not been recognised for international travel by several countries. "I cannot continue to remain idle here any further," said 57-year-old Sugathan, who returned to Pandalam village in Kerala in January to be with his family after missing his father's funeral last year when the pandemic disrupted flights. "I had the option of going to Saudi and taking (additional doses of) Covishield after a four-day institutional quarantine, but I was not sure of its implications on my health," said Sugathan, referring to AstraZeneca's vaccine. Also Read | India to administer next billion vaccines in next 3-4 months: Vaccine panel head "If the Covaxin approval does not come, I will take the risk of going and taking a Saudi-approved vaccine," he added, sitting in his spacious two-storey house fronted by paddy fields. The WHO is expected to take a final call on an emergency-use listing for Covaxin on Tuesday. It has deliberated on data supplied by manufacturer Bharat Biotech since early July but has said it could not "cut corners" in making a decision. Without a WHO nod, the two-dose Covaxin is unlikely to be accepted as a valid vaccine globally and would complicate travel plans for Indians who have taken it. Rajan Pallivadakethil Unnunni, 59, who worked in Kuwait as a welder for two decades before flying to India late last year, has been unable to go back as Kuwait does not recognise Covaxin. He is now struggling to repay his $20,000 bank loan selling chicken at a small stall in Kerala and making $4 a day. "If I cannot go back to Kuwait, I will not be able to repay the loan and complete the education of my children," said Rajan, seated on a plastic stool in front of his shop. "I can buy a ticket to Kuwait only if the Kuwait government app shows a green signal."

Vaccinated but stuck: Indians await WHO nod for homegrown shot to travel abroad

The coronavirus pandemic will come to an end when all the countries start using the available health tools effectively, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says.

"The pandemic will end when the world chooses to end it. It is in our hands. We have all the tools we need: effective public health tools and effective medical tools. But the world has not used those tools well.

With almost 50,000 deaths a week, the pandemic is far from over," Dr. Tedros said on Sunday, in his address to the World Health Summit in Berlin.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-why-developing-countries-can-make-covid-mrna-vaccines-423313">Here’s why developing countries can make Covid mRNA vaccines</a>

The WHO chief called on G20 countries that have already vaccinated 40 per cent of their population to actively engage in the COVAX mechanism, as well as the African Vaccine Acquisition Trust (AVAT).

On Sunday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the G20 countries to help collect USD 8 billion to ensure a fair distribution of COVID-19 vaccines around the world.

Speaking at the World Health Summit in Berlin, Gutteres said that earlier in October, he joined the WHO chief to launch a global strategy for COVID-19 vaccination, which suggests a credible and cost-effective plan to deliver vaccines to 40 per cent of people in all countries by the end of this year and 70 per cent by mid-2022.

The coronavirus pandemic will come to an end when all the countries start using the available health tools effectively, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says.

The coronavirus pandemic will come to an end when all the countries start using the available health tools effectively, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says. "The pandemic will end when the world chooses to end it. It is in our hands. We have all the tools we need: effective public health tools and effective medical tools. But the world has not used those tools well. With almost 50,000 deaths a week, the pandemic is far from over," Dr. Tedros said on Sunday, in his address to the World Health Summit in Berlin. Also Read | Here’s why developing countries can make Covid mRNA vaccines The WHO chief called on G20 countries that have already vaccinated 40 per cent of their population to actively engage in the COVAX mechanism, as well as the African Vaccine Acquisition Trust (AVAT). On Sunday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the G20 countries to help collect USD 8 billion to ensure a fair distribution of COVID-19 vaccines around the world. Speaking at the World Health Summit in Berlin, Gutteres said that earlier in October, he joined the WHO chief to launch a global strategy for COVID-19 vaccination, which suggests a credible and cost-effective plan to deliver vaccines to 40 per cent of people in all countries by the end of this year and 70 per cent by mid-2022.

Pandemic will end when world chooses to end it, says WHO chief

As a decision is awaited on the Emergency Use Listing of Covaxin being manufactured in India, a top WHO official has said the process of thoroughly evaluating a vaccine for use and recommending it sometimes takes longer time but it has to be ensured that the right advice is given to the world "even if it takes another week or two".

The World Health Organisation is very clear that we want all countries to recognise vaccines that have been given an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) by the WHO advisory process. But it's also very important that WHO, when it makes a recommendation like that, is making that globally,&nbsp;WHO Health Emergencies Programme Executive Director Dr. Mike Ryan said.

Ryan was responding to a question during a recent virtual Q&amp;A on whether there will be a definitive answer on Covaxin EUL by October 26.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-pandemic-will-easily-drag-on-deep-into-2022-warns-who-422531">Covid pandemic will easily drag on deep into 2022, warns WHO</a>

WHO Chief Scientist Soumya Swaminathan had said in a tweet earlier that the technical advisory group at WHO will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency Use Listing for Covaxin being manufactured by India's Bharat Biotech.

Earlier this week, the global health organisation had said in a tweet that it is expecting one additional piece of information from Bharat Biotech regarding Covaxin.

We are aware that many people are waiting for WHO's recommendation for Covaxin to be included in the #COVID19 Emergency Use Listing, but we cannot cut corners - before recommending a product for emergency use, we must evaluate it thoroughly to make sure it is safe and effective,&nbsp;WHO had said.

Bharat Biotech - the manufacturer of Covaxin - has been submitting data to WHO on a rolling basis and WHO experts have reviewed these data. WHO is expecting one additional piece of information from the company today,&nbsp;it had said.

Ryan said we have to be absolutely sure&nbsp;and it's really important that we gather all of the necessary information not only on the vaccine itself but on the manufacturing processes and all of that, because we're recommending to the world that this vaccine is safe, effective and it's been produced using the highest quality standards."

Further explaining how the WHO technical advisory group works, he said the vaccine manufacturers first of all have to request and respond and say that they want their vaccines to be put for EUL and then provide documentation on the whole process -- the efficacy studies and the manufacturing process.

Sometimes that requires visits to look at and examine the manufacturing practices and all of that has to come together into a dossier that's presented within this advisory group mechanism, and then it's from there that WHO can make a recommendation," Ryan said.

He emphasised that the entire process, even if people cannot see it day to day&nbsp;is very measured" because we're having to say to the world we've looked at this carefully, we've looked at every piece of data, we've looked at the whole production cycle and we can say with our hands on our hearts, having looked at all that data, here is a safe, effective, and well-produced product that you as our member state or you as a citizen of the world can take with confidence'.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-crosses-historic-one-billion-covid-19-vaccine-milestone-422530">&nbsp;India crosses historic one billion COVID-19 vaccine milestone</a>

That's very, very important and that sometimes takes longer and it is frustrating. And it is particularly frustrating if you've had a certain vaccine that is not recognised by another country and you can't travel. That becomes an issue,&nbsp;Ryan said.

He said the work done by the advisory group and its members has been of the highest quality, and ?it takes time to do that".

It's a hugely important task. It's extremely involved and measured, and the outputs of this process have been of very high quality right. Through this pandemic. And if it takes another week or two, that's what we'll have to take to ensure that the dossier is complete to ensure that the committee has a chance to look at that and then WHO can make the right determination and give the right advice to the world,&nbsp;Ryan said.

He added that the Emergency Committee of the International Health Regulations has been very, very clear" and countries have been advised that vaccination certification should not be used as the only measure and means of restricting travel,

We have other ways of making travel safe, including testing, serologic testing, and we very strongly believe that using vaccination status as the only parameter of travel creates a double inequity because countries who have no access to vaccines then by de facto have no access to travel either. And that's a double inequity,&nbsp;Ryan said.

Bharat Biotech had submitted EOI (Expression of Interest) on April 19 for its vaccine. The WHO said it began rolling data of the vaccine on July 6. Rolling data allows the WHO to start its review right away, as information continues to come in, to accelerate the overall review process. 
Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and AstraZeneca and Oxford University's Covishield are the two widely used vaccines in India.

WHO has said the timeframe for its EUL procedure is dependent on how quickly a company producing the vaccine is able to provide the data required for the global health body to evaluate the vaccine's quality, safety, efficacy and its suitability for low- and middle-income countries.

When the information provided addresses all questions raised, WHO and the Technical Advisory Group will complete the assessment and come to a final recommendation whether to grant Emergency Use Listing to the vaccine, it has said.&nbsp;

As a decision is awaited on the Emergency Use Listing of Covaxin being manufactured in India, a top WHO official has said the process of thoroughly evaluating a vaccine for use and recommending it sometimes takes longer time but it has to be ensured that the right advice is given to the world "even if it takes another week or two".

As a decision is awaited on the Emergency Use Listing of Covaxin being manufactured in India, a top WHO official has said the process of thoroughly evaluating a vaccine for use and recommending it sometimes takes longer time but it has to be ensured that the right advice is given to the world "even if it takes another week or two". The World Health Organisation is very clear that we want all countries to recognise vaccines that have been given an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) by the WHO advisory process. But it's also very important that WHO, when it makes a recommendation like that, is making that globally, WHO Health Emergencies Programme Executive Director Dr. Mike Ryan said. Ryan was responding to a question during a recent virtual Q&A on whether there will be a definitive answer on Covaxin EUL by October 26. Also Read | Covid pandemic will easily drag on deep into 2022, warns WHO WHO Chief Scientist Soumya Swaminathan had said in a tweet earlier that the technical advisory group at WHO will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency Use Listing for Covaxin being manufactured by India's Bharat Biotech. Earlier this week, the global health organisation had said in a tweet that it is expecting one additional piece of information from Bharat Biotech regarding Covaxin. We are aware that many people are waiting for WHO's recommendation for Covaxin to be included in the #COVID19 Emergency Use Listing, but we cannot cut corners - before recommending a product for emergency use, we must evaluate it thoroughly to make sure it is safe and effective, WHO had said. Bharat Biotech - the manufacturer of Covaxin - has been submitting data to WHO on a rolling basis and WHO experts have reviewed these data. WHO is expecting one additional piece of information from the company today, it had said. Ryan said we have to be absolutely sure and it's really important that we gather all of the necessary information not only on the vaccine itself but on the manufacturing processes and all of that, because we're recommending to the world that this vaccine is safe, effective and it's been produced using the highest quality standards." Further explaining how the WHO technical advisory group works, he said the vaccine manufacturers first of all have to request and respond and say that they want their vaccines to be put for EUL and then provide documentation on the whole process -- the efficacy studies and the manufacturing process. Sometimes that requires visits to look at and examine the manufacturing practices and all of that has to come together into a dossier that's presented within this advisory group mechanism, and then it's from there that WHO can make a recommendation," Ryan said. He emphasised that the entire process, even if people cannot see it day to day is very measured" because we're having to say to the world we've looked at this carefully, we've looked at every piece of data, we've looked at the whole production cycle and we can say with our hands on our hearts, having looked at all that data, here is a safe, effective, and well-produced product that you as our member state or you as a citizen of the world can take with confidence'. Also Read | India crosses historic one billion COVID-19 vaccine milestone That's very, very important and that sometimes takes longer and it is frustrating. And it is particularly frustrating if you've had a certain vaccine that is not recognised by another country and you can't travel. That becomes an issue, Ryan said. He said the work done by the advisory group and its members has been of the highest quality, and ?it takes time to do that". It's a hugely important task. It's extremely involved and measured, and the outputs of this process have been of very high quality right. Through this pandemic. And if it takes another week or two, that's what we'll have to take to ensure that the dossier is complete to ensure that the committee has a chance to look at that and then WHO can make the right determination and give the right advice to the world, Ryan said. He added that the Emergency Committee of the International Health Regulations has been very, very clear" and countries have been advised that vaccination certification should not be used as the only measure and means of restricting travel, We have other ways of making travel safe, including testing, serologic testing, and we very strongly believe that using vaccination status as the only parameter of travel creates a double inequity because countries who have no access to vaccines then by de facto have no access to travel either. And that's a double inequity, Ryan said. Bharat Biotech had submitted EOI (Expression of Interest) on April 19 for its vaccine. The WHO said it began rolling data of the vaccine on July 6. Rolling data allows the WHO to start its review right away, as information continues to come in, to accelerate the overall review process. Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and AstraZeneca and Oxford University's Covishield are the two widely used vaccines in India. WHO has said the timeframe for its EUL procedure is dependent on how quickly a company producing the vaccine is able to provide the data required for the global health body to evaluate the vaccine's quality, safety, efficacy and its suitability for low- and middle-income countries. When the information provided addresses all questions raised, WHO and the Technical Advisory Group will complete the assessment and come to a final recommendation whether to grant Emergency Use Listing to the vaccine, it has said.

Covid vaccine EUL recommendation process sometimes takes longer: WHO official says as Covaxin decision awaited

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that the Covid pandemic will “easily drag on deep into 2022” because poorer countries are not getting the required vaccines.

Less than 5 per cent of Africa’s population have been vaccinated, compared to 40% on most other continents.

Aylward asked the developed countries to give up their places in the queue for vaccines so that pharmaceutical companies can prioritise the lowest-income countries instead.

He said wealthy countries needed to “stocktake” where they were with their donation commitments made at summits such as the G7 meeting in St Ives this summer.

"I can tell you we're not on track. We really need to speed it up or you know what? This pandemic is going to go on for a year longer than it needs to,” BBC quoted Aylward as saying.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-crosses-historic-one-billion-covid-19-vaccine-milestone-422530">&nbsp;India crosses historic one billion COVID-19 vaccine milestone</a>

The COVID-19 pandemic, which has killed more than 4.6 million people and infected over 228 million people globally, has exposed glaring inequalities among nations over vaccine access and affordability.

Watch

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According to WHO research, enough vaccines will be produced in 2021 to cover 70 per cent of the global population of 7.8 billion. However, most vaccines are being reserved for wealthy countries, while other vaccine-producing countries are restricting the export of doses so they can ensure that their own citizens get vaccinated first, an approach which has been dubbed “vaccine nationalism”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fda-approves-mix-and-match-strategy-for-all-covid-19-vaccines-approved-in-us-422505">FDA approves 'mix and match' strategy for all COVID-19 vaccines approved in US</a>

The decision by some nations to give already inoculated citizens a booster vaccine, rather than prioritizing doses for unvaccinated people in poorer countries has been highlighted as one example of this trend.

According to the Global Dashboard for Vaccine Equity (established by UNDP, WHO and Oxford University) as of October 20, only 4.51 per cent of people in low-income countries have been vaccinated with at least one dose, compared to 62.79 per cent in high-income countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that the Covid pandemic will “easily drag on deep into 2022” because poorer countries are not getting the required vaccines.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that the Covid pandemic will “easily drag on deep into 2022” because poorer countries are not getting the required vaccines. Less than 5 per cent of Africa’s population have been vaccinated, compared to 40% on most other continents. Aylward asked the developed countries to give up their places in the queue for vaccines so that pharmaceutical companies can prioritise the lowest-income countries instead. He said wealthy countries needed to “stocktake” where they were with their donation commitments made at summits such as the G7 meeting in St Ives this summer. "I can tell you we're not on track. We really need to speed it up or you know what? This pandemic is going to go on for a year longer than it needs to,” BBC quoted Aylward as saying. Also read | India crosses historic one billion COVID-19 vaccine milestone The COVID-19 pandemic, which has killed more than 4.6 million people and infected over 228 million people globally, has exposed glaring inequalities among nations over vaccine access and affordability. Watch According to WHO research, enough vaccines will be produced in 2021 to cover 70 per cent of the global population of 7.8 billion. However, most vaccines are being reserved for wealthy countries, while other vaccine-producing countries are restricting the export of doses so they can ensure that their own citizens get vaccinated first, an approach which has been dubbed “vaccine nationalism”. Also read | FDA approves 'mix and match' strategy for all COVID-19 vaccines approved in US The decision by some nations to give already inoculated citizens a booster vaccine, rather than prioritizing doses for unvaccinated people in poorer countries has been highlighted as one example of this trend. According to the Global Dashboard for Vaccine Equity (established by UNDP, WHO and Oxford University) as of October 20, only 4.51 per cent of people in low-income countries have been vaccinated with at least one dose, compared to 62.79 per cent in high-income countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid pandemic will easily drag on deep into 2022, warns WHO

The World Health Organisation has congratulated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after country achieved over a billion COVID-19 vaccinations milestone today. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus post a tweet to congratulate PM Modi, scientists, health workers and the people of India.

WHO congratulates PM Modi as India crossed 1-billion jab mark

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday said he had an interaction with WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on various issues related to health and the latter lauded the "mammoth efforts" undertaken by the Indian government for vaccination against COVID-19.

The cumulative number of Covid vaccine doses administered in India crossed 99 core on Tuesday and as the country is close to administering 100 crore doses, the Centre has urged the states to focus on the second-dose coverage of vaccination in light of an adequate availability of vaccine doses.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dcgi-seeks-technical-opinion-to-approve-covaxin-for-kids-421886">DCGI seeks 'technical opinion' to approve Covaxin for kids</a>

"Had a detailed interaction with DG WHO @DrTedros, accompanied by other senior officials of @WHO, on various issues related to health, including pandemic management and WHO reforms. DG WHO lauded the mammoth efforts undertaken by the Indian government for #COVID19 vaccination," Mandaviya said in a tweet.

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Had a detailed interaction with DG WHO <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrTedros</a>, accompanied by other senior officials of <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a>, on various issues related to health, including pandemic management and WHO reforms. 
 
DG WHO lauded the mammoth efforts undertaken by the Indian government for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> vaccination.
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1450493019866611712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to official sources, around 74.45 per cent of India's eligible adult population has been administered at least one dose of the Covid vaccine and around 30.63 per cent have received both doses.

"We are at 99 crores. Go for it India, continue to rapidly march towards our milestone of 100 crore #COVID19 vaccinations," Mandaviya said in another tweet.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday said he had an interaction with WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on various issues related to health and the latter lauded the "mammoth efforts" undertaken by the Indian government for vaccination against COVID-19.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday said he had an interaction with WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on various issues related to health and the latter lauded the "mammoth efforts" undertaken by the Indian government for vaccination against COVID-19. The cumulative number of Covid vaccine doses administered in India crossed 99 core on Tuesday and as the country is close to administering 100 crore doses, the Centre has urged the states to focus on the second-dose coverage of vaccination in light of an adequate availability of vaccine doses. Also Read | DCGI seeks 'technical opinion' to approve Covaxin for kids "Had a detailed interaction with DG WHO @DrTedros, accompanied by other senior officials of @WHO, on various issues related to health, including pandemic management and WHO reforms. DG WHO lauded the mammoth efforts undertaken by the Indian government for #COVID19 vaccination," Mandaviya said in a tweet. Had a detailed interaction with DG WHO @DrTedros, accompanied by other senior officials of @WHO, on various issues related to health, including pandemic management and WHO reforms. DG WHO lauded the mammoth efforts undertaken by the Indian government for #COVID19 vaccination. — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) October 19, 2021 × According to official sources, around 74.45 per cent of India's eligible adult population has been administered at least one dose of the Covid vaccine and around 30.63 per cent have received both doses. "We are at 99 crores. Go for it India, continue to rapidly march towards our milestone of 100 crore #COVID19 vaccinations," Mandaviya said in another tweet.

WHO director general has lauded India's Covid vaccination efforts: Health Minister

The World Health Organization on Monday said that it expects Bharat Biotech to provide more information on its COVID-19 vaccine. This comes in a further setback to the Indian company's hopes of getting an emergency-use listing for the shot.

Without WHO's approval, the two-dose Covaxin is unlikely to be accepted as a valid COVID-19 vaccine around the world.&nbsp;

"We are aware that many people are waiting for WHO's recommendation for (Bharat Biotech's) Covaxin to be included in the #COVID19 Emergency Use Listing, but we cannot cut corners," WHO said on Twitter. 
Bharat Biotech did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-team-to-meet-on-october-26-to-consider-eul-for-covaxin-421625">Also read |&nbsp;WHO team to meet on October 26 to consider EUL for Covaxin</a>

This comes after the Chief Scientist at the WHO Soumya Swaminathan said that the technical advisory group of the WHO will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency use listing for Covaxin.

Bharat Biotech had submitted all the necessary documents required for the EUL on July 9.&nbsp;

“We have responded to any clarifications sought by WHO and are awaiting further feedback. As a responsible manufacturer with several prequalified vaccines, we do not find it appropriate to speculate or comment on the approval process and its timelines,” said Bharat Biotech in a statement.

Suchitra Ella, the company’s co-founder and joint managing director said that the approval is not expected to be a “long-drawn process”.

The World Health Organization on Monday said that it expects Bharat Biotech to provide more information on its COVID-19 vaccine. This comes in a further setback to the Indian company's hopes of getting an emergency-use listing for the shot.

The World Health Organization on Monday said that it expects Bharat Biotech to provide more information on its COVID-19 vaccine. This comes in a further setback to the Indian company's hopes of getting an emergency-use listing for the shot. Without WHO's approval, the two-dose Covaxin is unlikely to be accepted as a valid COVID-19 vaccine around the world. "We are aware that many people are waiting for WHO's recommendation for (Bharat Biotech's) Covaxin to be included in the #COVID19 Emergency Use Listing, but we cannot cut corners," WHO said on Twitter. Bharat Biotech did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Also read | WHO team to meet on October 26 to consider EUL for Covaxin This comes after the Chief Scientist at the WHO Soumya Swaminathan said that the technical advisory group of the WHO will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency use listing for Covaxin. Bharat Biotech had submitted all the necessary documents required for the EUL on July 9. “We have responded to any clarifications sought by WHO and are awaiting further feedback. As a responsible manufacturer with several prequalified vaccines, we do not find it appropriate to speculate or comment on the approval process and its timelines,” said Bharat Biotech in a statement. Suchitra Ella, the company’s co-founder and joint managing director said that the approval is not expected to be a “long-drawn process”.

WHO expects more info as it weighs approving India's Covaxin

The WHO's technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the emergency use listing of India's Covaxin which is being used in the country's nationwide anti-COVID-19 vaccination programme, according to the global health agency's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan.

Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech, which has developed Covaxin, had submitted EOI (Expression of Interest) to the World Health Organisation on April 19 for its vaccine.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-development-finance-corporation-chief-to-visit-india-to-boost-vaccine-manufacturing-421167">US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing</a>

Swaminathan, the WHO's Chief Scientist, said on Twitter on Sunday that the technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) for Covaxin. @WHO has been working closely with @BharatBiotech to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use and to expand access to populations everywhere," she said in the tweet.

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The technical advisory group will meet on Oct 26th to consider EUL for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covaxin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covaxin</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> has been working closely with <a href="https://twitter.com/BharatBiotech?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BharatBiotech</a> to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use &amp; to expand access to populations everywhere <a href="https://t.co/lqQIyqItF9">https://t.co/lqQIyqItF9</a>
— Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) <a href="https://twitter.com/doctorsoumya/status/1449756927496495112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this month, the WHO said that Bharat Biotech has been submitting data to WHO on a rolling basis and submitted additional information at the WHO's request on September 27.

The WHO experts are currently reviewing this information and if it addresses all questions raised, the WHO assessment will be finalised next week."

The Geneva-based WHO said it began rolling data of the vaccine on July 6. Rolling data allows the WHO to start its review right away, as information continues to come in to accelerate the overall review process.

According to the WHO, submissions for pre-qualification or listing under the emergency use procedure are confidential.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lab-suspended-after-false-negative-covid-tests-420952">&nbsp;UK lab suspended after false negative Covid tests</a>

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If a product submitted for assessment is found to meet the criteria for listing, the WHO will publish the results widely.

&nbsp;

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Duration of the emergency use listing process depends on the quality of the data submitted by the vaccine manufacturer and on the data meeting the WHO's criteria, according to the agency.

The indigenously-developed Bharat Biotech's Covaxin is one of the six vaccines that have received emergency use authorisation from India's drug regulator Drugs Controller General of India (DGCI) and is being used in the nationwide anti-COVID-19 inoculation programme along with Covishield and Sputnik V.

Bharat Biotech recently said it has submitted all data pertaining to Covaxin to the WHO for the EUL and is awaiting feedback from the global health watchdog.

"#COVAXIN clinical trial data was fully compiled and available in June 2021. All Data

submitted for Emergency Use Listing (EUL) Application to World Health Organization in early July. We have responded to any clarifications sought by #WHO and are awaiting further feedback," Bharat Biotech had tweeted last month.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-racing-for-profits-keeps-covid-vaccine-out-of-reach-of-poor-419518">Moderna, racing for profits, keeps Covid vaccine out of reach of poor</a>

"We are diligently working with the WHO to obtain EUL at the earliest,&nbsp;the company had said on Tuesday.

India, the world's largest producer of vaccines overall, suspended exports of COVID-19 vaccines in April to focus on inoculating its own population following a sudden spike in infections.

Last month, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that India will resume the supplies abroad.

According to Johns Hopkins University, the coronavirus has claimed 4,897,386 lives along with 240,559,605 confirmed cases across the world so far.

The WHO's technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the emergency use listing of India's Covaxin which is being used in the country's nationwide anti-COVID-19 vaccination programme, according to the global health agency's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan.

The WHO's technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the emergency use listing of India's Covaxin which is being used in the country's nationwide anti-COVID-19 vaccination programme, according to the global health agency's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan. Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech, which has developed Covaxin, had submitted EOI (Expression of Interest) to the World Health Organisation on April 19 for its vaccine. Also Read | US Development Finance Corporation chief to visit India to boost vaccine manufacturing Swaminathan, the WHO's Chief Scientist, said on Twitter on Sunday that the technical advisory group will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) for Covaxin. @WHO has been working closely with @BharatBiotech to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use and to expand access to populations everywhere," she said in the tweet. The technical advisory group will meet on Oct 26th to consider EUL for #Covaxin. @WHO has been working closely with @BharatBiotech to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use & to expand access to populations everywhere https://t.co/lqQIyqItF9 — Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) October 17, 2021 × Earlier this month, the WHO said that Bharat Biotech has been submitting data to WHO on a rolling basis and submitted additional information at the WHO's request on September 27. The WHO experts are currently reviewing this information and if it addresses all questions raised, the WHO assessment will be finalised next week." The Geneva-based WHO said it began rolling data of the vaccine on July 6. Rolling data allows the WHO to start its review right away, as information continues to come in to accelerate the overall review process. According to the WHO, submissions for pre-qualification or listing under the emergency use procedure are confidential. Also Read | UK lab suspended after false negative Covid tests If a product submitted for assessment is found to meet the criteria for listing, the WHO will publish the results widely. Duration of the emergency use listing process depends on the quality of the data submitted by the vaccine manufacturer and on the data meeting the WHO's criteria, according to the agency. The indigenously-developed Bharat Biotech's Covaxin is one of the six vaccines that have received emergency use authorisation from India's drug regulator Drugs Controller General of India (DGCI) and is being used in the nationwide anti-COVID-19 inoculation programme along with Covishield and Sputnik V. Bharat Biotech recently said it has submitted all data pertaining to Covaxin to the WHO for the EUL and is awaiting feedback from the global health watchdog. "#COVAXIN clinical trial data was fully compiled and available in June 2021. All Data submitted for Emergency Use Listing (EUL) Application to World Health Organization in early July. We have responded to any clarifications sought by #WHO and are awaiting further feedback," Bharat Biotech had tweeted last month. Also Read | Moderna, racing for profits, keeps Covid vaccine out of reach of poor "We are diligently working with the WHO to obtain EUL at the earliest, the company had said on Tuesday. India, the world's largest producer of vaccines overall, suspended exports of COVID-19 vaccines in April to focus on inoculating its own population following a sudden spike in infections. Last month, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that India will resume the supplies abroad. According to Johns Hopkins University, the coronavirus has claimed 4,897,386 lives along with 240,559,605 confirmed cases across the world so far.

WHO to meet next week to consider emergency use listing of India's Covaxin

The technical advisory group of the World Health Organisation will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency use listing for Covaxin, Chief Scientist at the WHO Soumya Swaminathan said on Sunday.

The approval for Bharat Biotech’s made-in-India vaccine is much awaited.&nbsp;

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The technical advisory group will meet on Oct 26th to consider EUL for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covaxin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covaxin</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> has been working closely with <a href="https://twitter.com/BharatBiotech?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BharatBiotech</a> to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use &amp; to expand access to populations everywhere <a href="https://t.co/lqQIyqItF9">https://t.co/lqQIyqItF9</a>
— Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) <a href="https://twitter.com/doctorsoumya/status/1449756927496495112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Bharat Biotech had submitted all the necessary documents required for the EUL on July 9.&nbsp;

“We have responded to any clarifications sought by WHO and are awaiting further feedback. As a responsible manufacturer with several prequalified vaccines, we do not find it appropriate to speculate or comment on the approval process and its timelines,” said Bharat Biotech in a statement.

Suchitra Ella, the company’s co-founder and joint managing director said that the approval is not expected to be a “long-drawn process”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covaxins-wait-continues-as-who-delays-emergency-use-again-413949">Also read |&nbsp;Covaxin's wait continues as WHO delays emergency use again</a>

“We are working closely with the World Health Organisation for the inclusion of Covaxin in its Emergency Use Listing. Approval from WHO is not expected to be a long-drawn process as the cell line and majority of our facilities have already been audited and approved by WHO for our other vaccines in the past,” she said in a tweet.

Meanwhile, the pharma regulator's Subject Expert Committee (SEC) has recommended that Bharat Biotech's Covaxin be approved for emergency use in children aged 2 to 18.

The SEC has submitted its proposal for final clearance to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).

"After detailed deliberation, the committee recommended for grant of market authorization of the vaccine for the age group of 2 to 18 years for restricted use in an emergency situation," the expert panel said in a statement.

The technical advisory group of the World Health Organisation will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency use listing for Covaxin, Chief Scientist at the WHO Soumya Swaminathan said on Sunday.

The technical advisory group of the World Health Organisation will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency use listing for Covaxin, Chief Scientist at the WHO Soumya Swaminathan said on Sunday. The approval for Bharat Biotech’s made-in-India vaccine is much awaited. The technical advisory group will meet on Oct 26th to consider EUL for #Covaxin. @WHO has been working closely with @BharatBiotech to complete the dossier. Our goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use & to expand access to populations everywhere https://t.co/lqQIyqItF9 — Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) October 17, 2021 × Bharat Biotech had submitted all the necessary documents required for the EUL on July 9. “We have responded to any clarifications sought by WHO and are awaiting further feedback. As a responsible manufacturer with several prequalified vaccines, we do not find it appropriate to speculate or comment on the approval process and its timelines,” said Bharat Biotech in a statement. Suchitra Ella, the company’s co-founder and joint managing director said that the approval is not expected to be a “long-drawn process”. Also read | Covaxin's wait continues as WHO delays emergency use again “We are working closely with the World Health Organisation for the inclusion of Covaxin in its Emergency Use Listing. Approval from WHO is not expected to be a long-drawn process as the cell line and majority of our facilities have already been audited and approved by WHO for our other vaccines in the past,” she said in a tweet. Meanwhile, the pharma regulator's Subject Expert Committee (SEC) has recommended that Bharat Biotech's Covaxin be approved for emergency use in children aged 2 to 18. The SEC has submitted its proposal for final clearance to the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). "After detailed deliberation, the committee recommended for grant of market authorization of the vaccine for the age group of 2 to 18 years for restricted use in an emergency situation," the expert panel said in a statement.

WHO team to meet on October 26 to consider EUL for Covaxin

Deaths due to tuberculosis have increased for the first time in over a decade reversing years of global progress, the World Health Organization said on Thursday citing the 2021 Global TB report. The resurgence is linked to disruptions in healthcare due to the pandemic.

TB Deaths rise for the first time in over a decade

Following the formation a new advisory group on dangerous pathogens, the World Health Organisation says this may be our last chance to find the origins of the covid-19 pandemic and has again demanded raw data from china on the earliest covid cases which were detected in Wuhan in late 2019.

WHO demands raw data from China on the earliest COVID cases detected in Wuhan

WHO has a new team to probe the origins of the Wuhan virus. But once again, China is dictating the terms. Foreign investigators won't be allowed to test blood samples from Wuhan. China has also denied access to the infamous bat caves. Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: China will not allow foreigners to test Wuhan blood samples

Many countries around the world have committed to a 'net zero' emissions. WHO climate report has called for transformational action. Watch this report to know more.

Countries around the world commit to 'net zero' emissions

Major Western donors have pressed the World Health Organization to launch a deeper external probe demanding how a major sexual abuse scandal in the Democratic Republic of Congo involving its staff was allowed to happen, diplomats told Reuters.

Some 83 aid workers, a quarter of them employed by the WHO, were involved in sexual exploitation and abuse during the country's Ebola epidemic from 2018 to 2020, an independent commission said last month.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/travellers-vaccinated-with-who-approved-covid-vaccines-can-enter-us-cdc-419527">Travellers vaccinated with WHO approved Covid vaccines can enter US: CDC</a>

Women accused local and foreign aid workers of demanding sex in exchange for jobs and there were nine alleged rapes, the panel said in a report on the large-scale abuse in North Kivu and Ituri provinces.

WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and aides have shared its draft action plan with major donors - including the United States, Britain, European powers, Canada and Australia - prompting their calls for an external oversight body while the WHO also revamps internal policies, diplomats said.

The probe should examine how WHO management reacted to growing allegations and aim to establish wider accountability, they said.

The management plan, currently being revised and expected to be presented to WHO's 194 member states on Thursday, should set out robust action and identify management failures to prevent future abuses in emergency operations, they added.

"My understanding for the delay is they are actually beefing it up," a Western diplomat told Reuters.

The WHO said in an email reply that it has consulted staff, member states and others on its comprehensive plan to address the report`s recommendations and prevention in its operations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-experts-back-extra-covid-19-jab-for-immunocompromised-419991">WHO experts back extra COVID-19 jab for immunocompromised</a>

"The consultations with member states continue this week. WHO will integrate their feedback into the plan; we aim to finalise it shortly and present it to member states," it said.

A second Western diplomat said, "the draft needs to specifically mention and include an external investigation and be independent."

"Enormous Concern"&nbsp;

The UN's Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) would be well-suited to lead the review "which should find mechanisms to ensure accountability goes as high as it needs to", he said.

"A lot of countries view these reports with enormous concern and are looking to the WHO for a major response that goes beyond treating the symptoms of the problem and makes sure something like this can never happen again," he added.

Tedros, who is seeking re-election next year, has said that WHO had terminated the contracts of four WHO employees and his priority was to hold perpetrators to account. His U.N. agency would address "management and staff failures".

Tedros, who visited Congo 14 times during the outbreak, launched the initial probe a year ago after an investigation by the Thomson Reuters Foundation and The New Humanitarian in which more than 50 women accused aid workers from the WHO and other charities of demanding sex.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-covid-19-update-high-infection-rate-in-0-19-age-group-in-india-globally-new-cases-fall-by-9-419214">WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9%</a>

The U.N. Children's Fund (UNICEF), asked whether any of its employees were implicated in the scandal, told Reuters on Wednesday: "At this point we have not received any information linking any of the subjects identified to UNICEF."

The commission cited "clear (WHO) structural failures and unpreparedness to manage the risks of incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse" and internal emails showing that the agency was aware of some incidents by May 2019.

A third diplomat said,&nbsp;"clearly it is an unfinished investigation".

"We don't have full sight of the delegation of authority or management reporting process," she said, adding that a cultural change was required, with greater emphasis on prevention and risk mitigation measures.

Another diplomat said, "we are calling for zero tolerance to be embedded in operations. We will be watching closely."

Major Western donors have pressed the World Health Organization to launch a deeper external probe demanding how a major sexual abuse scandal in the Democratic Republic of Congo involving its staff was allowed to happen, diplomats told Reuters.

Major Western donors have pressed the World Health Organization to launch a deeper external probe demanding how a major sexual abuse scandal in the Democratic Republic of Congo involving its staff was allowed to happen, diplomats told Reuters. Some 83 aid workers, a quarter of them employed by the WHO, were involved in sexual exploitation and abuse during the country's Ebola epidemic from 2018 to 2020, an independent commission said last month. Also Read | Travellers vaccinated with WHO approved Covid vaccines can enter US: CDC Women accused local and foreign aid workers of demanding sex in exchange for jobs and there were nine alleged rapes, the panel said in a report on the large-scale abuse in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and aides have shared its draft action plan with major donors - including the United States, Britain, European powers, Canada and Australia - prompting their calls for an external oversight body while the WHO also revamps internal policies, diplomats said. The probe should examine how WHO management reacted to growing allegations and aim to establish wider accountability, they said. The management plan, currently being revised and expected to be presented to WHO's 194 member states on Thursday, should set out robust action and identify management failures to prevent future abuses in emergency operations, they added. "My understanding for the delay is they are actually beefing it up," a Western diplomat told Reuters. The WHO said in an email reply that it has consulted staff, member states and others on its comprehensive plan to address the report`s recommendations and prevention in its operations. Also read | WHO experts back extra COVID-19 jab for immunocompromised "The consultations with member states continue this week. WHO will integrate their feedback into the plan; we aim to finalise it shortly and present it to member states," it said. A second Western diplomat said, "the draft needs to specifically mention and include an external investigation and be independent." "Enormous Concern" The UN's Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) would be well-suited to lead the review "which should find mechanisms to ensure accountability goes as high as it needs to", he said. "A lot of countries view these reports with enormous concern and are looking to the WHO for a major response that goes beyond treating the symptoms of the problem and makes sure something like this can never happen again," he added. Tedros, who is seeking re-election next year, has said that WHO had terminated the contracts of four WHO employees and his priority was to hold perpetrators to account. His U.N. agency would address "management and staff failures". Tedros, who visited Congo 14 times during the outbreak, launched the initial probe a year ago after an investigation by the Thomson Reuters Foundation and The New Humanitarian in which more than 50 women accused aid workers from the WHO and other charities of demanding sex. Also read | WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9% The U.N. Children's Fund (UNICEF), asked whether any of its employees were implicated in the scandal, told Reuters on Wednesday: "At this point we have not received any information linking any of the subjects identified to UNICEF." The commission cited "clear (WHO) structural failures and unpreparedness to manage the risks of incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse" and internal emails showing that the agency was aware of some incidents by May 2019. A third diplomat said, "clearly it is an unfinished investigation". "We don't have full sight of the delegation of authority or management reporting process," she said, adding that a cultural change was required, with greater emphasis on prevention and risk mitigation measures. Another diplomat said, "we are calling for zero tolerance to be embedded in operations. We will be watching closely."

WHO donors seek deeper probe into Congo sexual abuse: Diplomats

China has rejected calls by World Health Organisation (WHO) for inspection of bat caves and animal breeding farms aimed at further investigation into origins of COVID pandemic, said a report.

Washington Post said that WHO wanted to carry out investigations in Enshi, six-hour drive from Wuhan which was world's first major epicentre of coronavirus outbreak.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/China-xi-jinping-crackdown-evergrande-mao-zedong-mistake-repeat-419919">Opinion | Is China's Xi Jinping repeating Mao's mistake?</a>

China has repeatedly resisted calls for a thorough international investigation into origins of COVID pandemic within its borders. A WHO has already made observations while in China but there were strict restrictions on movement of the members. At the end of their investigation, the team had stressed the need for more observations.

In August, US intelligence agencies told US President Joe Biden that coronavirus was not a biological weapon but may have been caused due to natural transmission or due to a lab leak.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-talks-fail-to-resolve-issues-at-lac-china-pins-blame-on-india-419801">After talks fail to resolve issues at LAC, China pins blame on India</a>

China has vehemently denied allegations that coronavirus originated there

The animal farms around Wuhan came into focus when it became known that animals from these farms were sold in the wet markets of Wuhan when such a sale was not permitted under the law.

China has rejected calls by World Health Organisation (WHO) for inspection of bat caves and animal breeding farms aimed at further investigation into origins of COVID pandemic, said a report.

China has rejected calls by World Health Organisation (WHO) for inspection of bat caves and animal breeding farms aimed at further investigation into origins of COVID pandemic, said a report. Washington Post said that WHO wanted to carry out investigations in Enshi, six-hour drive from Wuhan which was world's first major epicentre of coronavirus outbreak. Also Read: Opinion | Is China's Xi Jinping repeating Mao's mistake? China has repeatedly resisted calls for a thorough international investigation into origins of COVID pandemic within its borders. A WHO has already made observations while in China but there were strict restrictions on movement of the members. At the end of their investigation, the team had stressed the need for more observations. In August, US intelligence agencies told US President Joe Biden that coronavirus was not a biological weapon but may have been caused due to natural transmission or due to a lab leak. Also Read | After talks fail to resolve issues at LAC, China pins blame on India China has vehemently denied allegations that coronavirus originated there The animal farms around Wuhan came into focus when it became known that animals from these farms were sold in the wet markets of Wuhan when such a sale was not permitted under the law.

China rejects WHO calls for inspection of bat caves, animal farms: Report

The World Health Organization's vaccine advisers on Monday recommended people with weaker immune systems should be offered an additional dose of all authorised Covid-19 vaccines.

The UN health agency's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation (SAGE) also said over-60s who have been fully immunised with China's Sinovac and Sinopharm vaccine should be offered an additional third Covid-19 vaccine dose.

The experts stressed they were not recommending an additional so-called booster dose for the population at large.

Several Covid-19 vaccines have been given WHO approval for emergency use during the pandemic: Pfizer-BioNTech, Janssen, Moderna, Sinopharm, Sinovac and AstraZeneca.

It is on the verge of deciding whether to give emergency use listing to India's Bharat Biotech jab.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-covid-19-update-high-infection-rate-in-0-19-age-group-in-india-globally-new-cases-fall-by-9-419214">Also read |&nbsp;WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9%</a>

SAGE held a four-day meeting last week to review the latest information and data on a range of vaccines for Covid-19 and other diseases.

"SAGE recommended that moderately and severely immunocompromised persons should be offered an additional dose of all WHO EUL (emergency use listing) Covid-19 vaccines as part of an extended primary series," the group said.

"These individuals are less likely to respond adequately to vaccination following a standard primary vaccine series and are at high risk of severe Covid-19 disease."

It also said that for people fully immunised with Sinovac and Sinopharm vaccines, an additional third dose of the same jab "should be offered to persons aged 60 and above".

A different vaccine "may also be considered based on vaccine supply and access considerations".

SAGE added that when implementing this recommendation, countries should initially aim at maximising two-dose coverage in that population, and thereafter administer the third dose, starting in the oldest age groups.

The World Health Organization's vaccine advisers on Monday recommended people with weaker immune systems should be offered an additional dose of all authorised Covid-19 vaccines.

The World Health Organization's vaccine advisers on Monday recommended people with weaker immune systems should be offered an additional dose of all authorised Covid-19 vaccines. The UN health agency's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation (SAGE) also said over-60s who have been fully immunised with China's Sinovac and Sinopharm vaccine should be offered an additional third Covid-19 vaccine dose. The experts stressed they were not recommending an additional so-called booster dose for the population at large. Several Covid-19 vaccines have been given WHO approval for emergency use during the pandemic: Pfizer-BioNTech, Janssen, Moderna, Sinopharm, Sinovac and AstraZeneca. It is on the verge of deciding whether to give emergency use listing to India's Bharat Biotech jab. Also read | WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9% SAGE held a four-day meeting last week to review the latest information and data on a range of vaccines for Covid-19 and other diseases. "SAGE recommended that moderately and severely immunocompromised persons should be offered an additional dose of all WHO EUL (emergency use listing) Covid-19 vaccines as part of an extended primary series," the group said. "These individuals are less likely to respond adequately to vaccination following a standard primary vaccine series and are at high risk of severe Covid-19 disease." It also said that for people fully immunised with Sinovac and Sinopharm vaccines, an additional third dose of the same jab "should be offered to persons aged 60 and above". A different vaccine "may also be considered based on vaccine supply and access considerations". SAGE added that when implementing this recommendation, countries should initially aim at maximising two-dose coverage in that population, and thereafter administer the third dose, starting in the oldest age groups.

WHO experts back extra COVID-19 jab for immunocompromised

The first official clinical definition of so-called long COVID has been agreed upon after global consultation and released to help boost treatment for sufferers, the UN World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday. Watch this report for more details.

WHO establishes clinical definition of long COVID

The United Nations and World Health Organisation have come together for a collective goal, vaccine equity. The WHO had set an ambitious goal which is to get 40% of every country's population vaccinated by the end of this year.

United Nations, World Health Organisation come together for a collective goal

A cross-sectional study in India has shown an increased number of COVID-19 infections in those between the ages of 0-19 and in women, a higher mortality rate and more incidences of post-vaccination infections with the Delta variant.

World Health Organization's (WHO) COVID-19 Weekly Epidemiological Update, issued this week, cited this cross-sectional study. The study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, focused on demographic characteristics, including severe illness and mortality rates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-logs-21257-new-covid-cases-271-deaths-419059">India logs 21,257 new Covid cases, 271 deaths</a>

Researchers conducted this study in India among COVID-19 cases caused by the B.1 variant (a non-Variant Of Concern) and the B.1.617.2 Delta variant (a Variant Of Concern).

"Using viral genomic sequences from 9,500 COVID-19 patients, the study found an increased number of infections among younger age groups (0-19 years) and women, a lower mean age for infection and symptomatic illness/hospitalisation, higher mortality and more frequent incidences of post-vaccination infections with Delta variant compared to the non-VOC (B.1) variant," the WHO update said.

Watch |&nbsp;COVID situation in different parts of the globe get grim

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-situation-in-different-parts-of-the-globe-get-grim-418008/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The update also stated that worldwide, the number of weekly COVID-19 cases and deaths has been declining since August. Compared to the previous week, the number of cases plunged by 9 per cent, while death rates remained the same.

During the week of September 27 to October 3, 2021, 3.1 million new cases and just over 54,000 new deaths were reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-covid-19-caseload-tops-2367-million-419033">Global Covid-19 caseload tops 236.7 million</a>

Globally, there have been more than 234 million confirmed cases and about 4.8 million deaths.

Except for the European region, all regions reported a decline in new cases this week. The African Region reported the largest decrease of 43 per cent, followed by the Eastern Mediterranean Region at 21 per cent and the South-East Asia Region at 19 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

A cross-sectional study in India has shown an increased number of COVID-19 infections in those between the ages of 0-19 and in women, a higher mortality rate and more incidences of post-vaccination infections with the Delta variant.

A cross-sectional study in India has shown an increased number of COVID-19 infections in those between the ages of 0-19 and in women, a higher mortality rate and more incidences of post-vaccination infections with the Delta variant. World Health Organization's (WHO) COVID-19 Weekly Epidemiological Update, issued this week, cited this cross-sectional study. The study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, focused on demographic characteristics, including severe illness and mortality rates. Also read | India logs 21,257 new Covid cases, 271 deaths Researchers conducted this study in India among COVID-19 cases caused by the B.1 variant (a non-Variant Of Concern) and the B.1.617.2 Delta variant (a Variant Of Concern). "Using viral genomic sequences from 9,500 COVID-19 patients, the study found an increased number of infections among younger age groups (0-19 years) and women, a lower mean age for infection and symptomatic illness/hospitalisation, higher mortality and more frequent incidences of post-vaccination infections with Delta variant compared to the non-VOC (B.1) variant," the WHO update said. Watch | COVID situation in different parts of the globe get grim The update also stated that worldwide, the number of weekly COVID-19 cases and deaths has been declining since August. Compared to the previous week, the number of cases plunged by 9 per cent, while death rates remained the same. During the week of September 27 to October 3, 2021, 3.1 million new cases and just over 54,000 new deaths were reported. Also read | Global Covid-19 caseload tops 236.7 million Globally, there have been more than 234 million confirmed cases and about 4.8 million deaths. Except for the European region, all regions reported a decline in new cases this week. The African Region reported the largest decrease of 43 per cent, followed by the Eastern Mediterranean Region at 21 per cent and the South-East Asia Region at 19 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9%

WHO has recommended World's first Malaria vaccine for Children. Malaria has been killing humans since Mesopotamian civilisation. Why did it take so long to develop a vaccine? Is it because Malaria mostly affects Africa and not the West? Listen in to Palki Sharma

Gravitas: WHO recommends first Malaria vaccine for children

The world has gained a new weapon in the war on malaria, among the oldest known and deadliest of infectious diseases: the first vaccine shown to help prevent the disease.Watch this report to know more.

WHO recommends use of first malaria jab

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