Pfizer is looking for FDA cleared, US supports lifting of IP protections for vaccines, and Indians are struggling to get the help they need. Here’s what you need to know:
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Pfizer and BioNTech seek full FDA approval for its injection for adults and emergency use for adolescents
This morning, Pfizer and BioNTech requested full FDA approval of their Covid-19 vaccine for Americans 16 and older. The agency granted authorization for the emergency use of the shot in December after having had two months of data on safety and effectiveness. Full approval requires six months of data. The FDA is expected to take several weeks to review the request. While the statistics for this and other vaccines can be confusing, ultimately numbers tell a story: These shots are very effective, and they will pave the way for this pandemic.
Separately, FDA Prepares to Authorize Pfizer and BioNTech Vaccines for Use in Adolescents 12 to 15 years old in the coming days, and the drugmaker has said it will seek emergency clearance for use in children 2 to 11 years in September.
Biden administration supports lifting of IP protection for Covid-19 vaccines
On Wednesday, the Biden administration released a statement saying it would support waiver of intellectual property protections for Covid-19 vaccines to make it easier for countries struggling with the pandemic and the deployment of vaccines to produce injections created by other drug makers. So far, this proposal has received mixed reactions, including WHO praise and the objections of the pharmaceutical industry. The EU also indicated that it might not stand In addition, experts pointed out that it it could be long before it becomes a policy, if it ever gets that far.
In the meantime, other attempts at vaccine diplomacy are underway. Moderna and Sweden donated blows to Covax earlier this week. And the WHO comes from obtained emergency use authorization to a vaccine from Chinese manufacturer Sinopharm, which also makes it possible to include the vaccine in the Covax initiative.
Emergency supplies to India delayed as country continues to break records
India broke world records again on Friday, reporting 414,188 new cases in the past 24 hours. Countries around the world have stepped up to help the country amid its massive surge, with around 300 tons of supplies arriving at Delhi International Airport alone last Sunday. But upon arrival, much of that aid would have been blocked at the airport, and some state officials say it’s unclear when and how their regions will receive. essential supplies.
While Indian cities have been hit hard, inadequate public health care in rural areas, where nearly 70 percent of the population lives, also puts much of the country at risk. Without the necessary support from the government, many in India are turn to Twitter seek help, amplify the needs of others, and provide support when possible.
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