The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) is considering easing regulations for disinfectant manufacturers, potentially excluding them from the strict requirements for drugs. This move comes in response to the surge in demand for disinfectants post-COVID-19 and aims to streamline the licensing process. The DCGI is expected to issue a guidance note outlining specific requirements for obtaining licenses.
Scientists have uncovered a key factor behind multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare but serious complication following COVID-19 infection. The immune system, in a case of mistaken identity, targets a protein called SNX8, mistaking it for a part of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This discovery could lead to improved diagnosis and understanding of the condition.
Pfizer and BioNTech’s combined mRNA vaccine for influenza and COVID-19 has shown mixed results in a Phase 3 trial. While it met one of its primary immunogenicity objectives, it demonstrated lower responses against the influenza B strain compared to a licensed flu vaccine. The companies are evaluating adjustments to improve the vaccine’s effectiveness.
Oppenheimer initiated coverage on Vaxart Inc. (VXRT), a biotechnology company developing oral vaccines, with an Outperform rating and a $4 price target. The firm is optimistic about Vaxart’s ‘differentiated’ oral vaccine platform, particularly its norovirus and COVID-19 vaccine programs. Vaxart’s potential for commercial success is driven by the lack of approved norovirus vaccines and the company’s leadership in this space.
After a nearly five-year closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea is preparing to welcome tourists back to the city of Samjiyon in December. Tour companies are expecting Pyongyang and other areas to follow suit soon. This reopening offers unique experiences including limited crowds, cultural festivals, winter activities, and budget-friendly tours.
Pakistan has implemented a new visa policy designed to attract international tourists, including visa-free entry for 49 countries and a simplified application process. This move aims to bolster the country’s tourism sector and economic growth. However, ongoing COVID-19 restrictions and travel bans pose challenges to the success of this initiative.
A former food services director at a school district in Illinois has been sentenced to nine years in prison for stealing over 11,000 cases of chicken wings worth $1.5 million, intended for students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vera Liddell, 68, used her position to arrange for the chicken wings and collect them using a school van. The theft was discovered during a routine audit when food expenses exceeded the budget by $300,000. The students never received the stolen food.
The Indian government has reaffirmed its decision not to pay arrears for the 18 months of dearness allowance (DA) and dearness relief (DR) withheld from central government employees and pensioners during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government cites economic disruptions caused by the pandemic and the need to ease pressure on government finances as the reasoning behind the decision. Despite representations from employee unions, the government maintains its stance, highlighting the significant financial savings generated from the DA freeze.
A writer reflects on her recovery from Covid-19 and pneumonia, finding solace and strength in the simple act of dining at restaurants. The essay explores the importance of social connection, the comfort of familiar places, and the joy of discovering new culinary experiences, all while showcasing London’s diverse and vibrant restaurant scene.
The Delhi High Court has ordered Baba Ramdev to retract his claims that Coronil is a cure for Covid-19 within three days. The court’s decision comes after several doctors’ associations filed a lawsuit against Ramdev and Patanjali Ayurveda in 2021, challenging the efficacy of Coronil. The court has directed Ramdev to remove all public statements claiming Coronil as a cure, emphasizing that it should only be promoted as an immunity booster.
