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

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

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

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

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that another 500,000 people could die across Europe with cases once again on the rise.

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

India's Covaxin approved by WHO for emergency use

After an independent advisory council&nbsp;of the World Health Organization gave a nod to the Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin for Emergency Use Listing (EUL), the US has also decided to allow travellers inoculated with this vaccine.<o:p></o:p>

The US has updated its list of approved vaccines and people who have been inoculated with Covaxin have been given green light to enter the country now. "CDC's travel guidance applies to FDA approved or authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines and encompasses any new vaccines that may be added to either of those lists over time," US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) press officer Scott Pauley told news agency ANI.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-biotechs-covid-vaccine-covaxin-gets-emergency-use-listing-from-who-panel-426431">Bharat Biotech's Covid vaccine Covaxin gets emergency use listing from WHO panel</a></o:p>

From November 08, the US will be reopening its borders to all international travellers, provided they are either fully vaccinated or have a medical emergency that needs consultation in the US.<o:p></o:p>

Living up to its promise of adding all WHO approved vaccines to the list, US’ CDC also acknowledged the WHO giving a nod to Covaxin for Emergency Use Listing (EUL). "WHO has granted emergency use listing (EUL) to #COVAXIN® (developed by Bharat Biotech), adding to a growing portfolio of vaccines validated by WHO for the prevention of #COVID19,"&nbsp;WHO said in a tweet.

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🆕 WHO has granted emergency use listing (EUL) to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVAXIN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVAXIN</a>® (developed by Bharat Biotech), adding to a growing portfolio of vaccines validated by WHO for the prevention of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. <a href="https://t.co/dp2A1knGtT">pic.twitter.com/dp2A1knGtT</a>
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO/status/1455869992965181441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This will help Indian travellers enter the US and will also bring more recognition for Covaxin in several other western countries, allowing fully vaccinated Indian travellers to move freely.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Covaxin was given this nod by the&nbsp;Technical Advisory Group (TAG), an independent advisory council of the WHO. TAG-EUL is an independent advisory committee that advises WHO on whether or not a COVID-19 vaccine should be designated for emergency use under the EUL protocol.<o:p></o:p>

After WHO's decision, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had also appreciated the decision. Welcome WHO’s decision to grant Emergency Use Listing to COVAXIN. It facilitates travel for many Indian citizens and contributes to vaccine equity. Also a global recognition to PM Narendra Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. A Happier Diwali," he had tweeted.<o:p></o:p>

After an independent advisory council of the World Health Organization gave a nod to the Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin for Emergency Use Listing (EUL), the US has also decided to allow travellers inoculated with this vaccine.

After an independent advisory council of the World Health Organization gave a nod to the Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin for Emergency Use Listing (EUL), the US has also decided to allow travellers inoculated with this vaccine. The US has updated its list of approved vaccines and people who have been inoculated with Covaxin have been given green light to enter the country now. "CDC's travel guidance applies to FDA approved or authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines and encompasses any new vaccines that may be added to either of those lists over time," US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) press officer Scott Pauley told news agency ANI. Also read | Bharat Biotech's Covid vaccine Covaxin gets emergency use listing from WHO panel From November 08, the US will be reopening its borders to all international travellers, provided they are either fully vaccinated or have a medical emergency that needs consultation in the US. Living up to its promise of adding all WHO approved vaccines to the list, US’ CDC also acknowledged the WHO giving a nod to Covaxin for Emergency Use Listing (EUL). "WHO has granted emergency use listing (EUL) to #COVAXIN® (developed by Bharat Biotech), adding to a growing portfolio of vaccines validated by WHO for the prevention of #COVID19," WHO said in a tweet. 🆕 WHO has granted emergency use listing (EUL) to #COVAXIN® (developed by Bharat Biotech), adding to a growing portfolio of vaccines validated by WHO for the prevention of #COVID19. pic.twitter.com/dp2A1knGtT — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) November 3, 2021 × This will help Indian travellers enter the US and will also bring more recognition for Covaxin in several other western countries, allowing fully vaccinated Indian travellers to move freely. Covaxin was given this nod by the Technical Advisory Group (TAG), an independent advisory council of the WHO. TAG-EUL is an independent advisory committee that advises WHO on whether or not a COVID-19 vaccine should be designated for emergency use under the EUL protocol. After WHO's decision, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had also appreciated the decision. Welcome WHO’s decision to grant Emergency Use Listing to COVAXIN. It facilitates travel for many Indian citizens and contributes to vaccine equity. Also a global recognition to PM Narendra Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. A Happier Diwali," he had tweeted.

Indian travellers now allowed to enter US after Covaxin gets nod by WHO

Covaxin gets WHO's nod; here's what it will mean for those who have taken the shot

India's indigenous jab Covaxin approved for emergency use listing by WHO

The Technical Advisory Group (TAG), an independent advisory council of the World Health Organization (WHO), has recommended that Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin be given Emergency Use Listing (EUL) designation.

The WHO is now reviewing Covaxin's clinical trial results in order to determine if EUL should be used. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-who-delays-approval-for-covaxin-jab-every-minute-is-an-eternity-for-this-indian-family-424897">Also read | As WHO delays approval for Covaxin jab, every minute is an eternity for this Indian family</a> 
 
The TAG had requested "further clarifications" from the firm on October 26 in order for Covaxin to undertake a final "risk-benefit assessment" for the vaccine's Emergency Use Listing.&nbsp;

In a tweet, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar appreciated the decision and said that: "Welcome WHO’s decision to grant Emergency Use Listing to COVAXIN. It facilitates travel for many Indian citizens and contributes to vaccine equity. Also a global recognition to PM Narendra Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. A Happier Diwali." 
&nbsp;

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Welcome <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a>’s decision to grant Emergency Use Listing to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVAXIN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVAXIN</a>. 
 
It facilitates travel for many Indian citizens and contributes to vaccine equity. 
 
Also a global recognition to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>’s vision of an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtmanirbharBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtmanirbharBharat</a>. 
 
A Happier Diwali.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1455887923950194698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Watch | Gravitas: Is WHO delaying approval for COVAXIN?

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"The Technical Advisory Group of WHO has recommended Emergency Use Listing status for Covaxin," a source said.

TAG-EUL is an independent advisory committee that advises WHO on whether or not a COVID-19 vaccine should be designated for emergency use under the EUL protocol.

Covaxin has been shown to be effective against symptomatic COVID-19 at 77.8% and 65.2 per cent against the novel Delta variant.

The company announced in June that it has completed the final study of Covaxin effectiveness from Phase 3 studies.

Covaxin from Bharat Biotech and Covishield from AstraZeneca and Oxford University are the two most extensively used vaccinations in India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Technical Advisory Group (TAG), an independent advisory council of the World Health Organization (WHO), has recommended that Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin be given Emergency Use Listing (EUL) designation.

The Technical Advisory Group (TAG), an independent advisory council of the World Health Organization (WHO), has recommended that Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin be given Emergency Use Listing (EUL) designation. The WHO is now reviewing Covaxin's clinical trial results in order to determine if EUL should be used. Also read | As WHO delays approval for Covaxin jab, every minute is an eternity for this Indian family The TAG had requested "further clarifications" from the firm on October 26 in order for Covaxin to undertake a final "risk-benefit assessment" for the vaccine's Emergency Use Listing. In a tweet, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar appreciated the decision and said that: "Welcome WHO’s decision to grant Emergency Use Listing to COVAXIN. It facilitates travel for many Indian citizens and contributes to vaccine equity. Also a global recognition to PM Narendra Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. A Happier Diwali." Welcome @WHO’s decision to grant Emergency Use Listing to #COVAXIN. It facilitates travel for many Indian citizens and contributes to vaccine equity. Also a global recognition to PM @narendramodi’s vision of an #AtmanirbharBharat. A Happier Diwali. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 3, 2021 × Watch | Gravitas: Is WHO delaying approval for COVAXIN? "The Technical Advisory Group of WHO has recommended Emergency Use Listing status for Covaxin," a source said. TAG-EUL is an independent advisory committee that advises WHO on whether or not a COVID-19 vaccine should be designated for emergency use under the EUL protocol. Covaxin has been shown to be effective against symptomatic COVID-19 at 77.8% and 65.2 per cent against the novel Delta variant. The company announced in June that it has completed the final study of Covaxin effectiveness from Phase 3 studies. Covaxin from Bharat Biotech and Covishield from AstraZeneca and Oxford University are the two most extensively used vaccinations in India. (With inputs from agencies)

Bharat Biotech's Covid vaccine Covaxin gets emergency use listing from WHO panel

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

Covid Vaccine Updates: India's indigenous vaccine Covaxin approved for Emergency use by WHO

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

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-the-lab-leak-theory-389670/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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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&nbsp;

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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<h5>The WHO technical advisory group will meet on November 3 for a final assessment.</h5>
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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

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-update-uk-43000-people-were-issued-false-negative-covid-19-results-421364/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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

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