1. Medtech Insight
  2. >>Geography
  3. >>International

New WHO Recommendations On Access To COVID-19 Products Highlight Spread Of New EG.5 Variant

 
• By Ian Schofield

The UK is extending flexibilities that were introduced to ensure the supply and availability of COVID-19 and flu vaccines and has published its autumn vaccination schedule. Novavax expects to have its vaccine against the XBB strain of the virus ready by the end of September, while UK firm Infex is planning to begin clinical trials with a rival to Pfizer’s Paxlovid.

pandemic concept of Coronavirus over Earth background and its blurry hologram to protect 3d rendering toned image.
COVID-19 is still a risk to public health around the world • Source: Shutterstock

The World Health Organization has issued a new set of recommendations on how countries should manage the ongoing risk that COVID-19 poses to public health and has upgraded the status of the new EG.5 offshoot of the virus from “variant under monitoring” to “variant of interest.”

“There is no question that the risk of severe disease and death is vastly lower than it was a year ago, thanks to increasing population immunity from vaccination, infection or...

Read the full article – start your free trial today!

Join thousands of industry professionals who rely on Medtech Insight for daily insights

  • Start your 7-day free trial
  • Explore trusted news, analysis, and insights
  • Access comprehensive global coverage
  • Enjoy instant access – no credit card required
Start Free Trial

Already a subscriber?

More from International

Get Ready For International Harmonization Before Approaching QMSR Deadline, Says Regulatory Expert

 
• By Brian Bossetta

During MD&M East last week, regulatory consultant Darren Reeves reminded device manufacturers that the time to get ready to comply with the new Quality Management System Regulation is now.

Health Literacy Issues Cost Major Economies $303B Per Year, Recent Study Shows

 
• By David Ridley

By addressing disparities in health literacy, particularly in the areas of oral care, bone health, nutrition and air pollution, the consumer health industry can “save lives and billions in healthcare costs, boosting productivity and increasing GDP,” says a new report from Haleon and Economist Impact.

Pathogen Sharing System Part Of Global Pandemic Agreement

 
• By Neena Brizmohun

Now that the landmark Pandemic Agreement has finally been adopted, work will start on drafting a pathogen access and benefit sharing system that will be voluntary for use by drug companies.

Disparities — Including Financial Shortcomings — Remain In Women’s Health, Execs Say

 
• By Brian Bossetta

FemTech leaders discussed some of the barriers that remain in unlocking the full potential of the women’s health market during SiS New York last week. They also offered solutions.

More from Geography

Roche Diagnostics Day 2025: ‘We Need To Become A Leader In Decentralized Testing’

 
• By Natasha Barrow

Roche aims to grow its diagnostics sales by mid to high single digits, said CEO of Roche Diagnostics Matt Sause. The company unveiled the Axelios synthesis and sequencing solution and discussed its “long-term commitment” to China, as well as its business strategy for the next five years.

Zika Virus Test Among 4 New FDA Device Classifications

 
• By Elizabeth Orr

The FDA plans to announce class II status for four new device types, including tests for the Zika virus and genetic condition Fragile X. This follows earlier announcements and highlights a trend toward diagnostic classifications. The classifications are considered deregulatory, meaning they will hel

FDA Draft Guidance Introduces Electric Submission For Q-Sub Process

 
• By Brian Bossetta

The US FDA says its updated draft guidance represents one of several steps the agency is taking to develop electronic submission templates for the medical device industry. The document introduces stakeholders to currently available resources for supporting their pre-subs to the agency.