&w=3840&q=100)
New WHO agreement on pandemic response: What's it is and what it will do
Barkha Mathur New Delhi
World Health Organization (WHO) member states have adopted a landmark agreement aimed at addressing the gaps exposed during the Covid-19 pandemic. The WHO Pandemic Agreement is designed to ensure faster, fairer and more coordinated global responses during future health emergencies.
What is the WHO Pandemic Agreement?
The WHO Pandemic Agreement is the first legally binding international accord to comprehensively address pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. Adopted under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution, it promotes data sharing, equitable access to resources and greater cooperation between countries during health crises.
The agreement text states that member countries recognise 'that the international spread of disease is a global threat… that calls for the widest possible international and regional collaboration… while reaffirming the principle of the sovereignty of States in addressing public health matters.'
What are the goals of the WHO pandemic treaty?
The agreement outlines five primary objectives:
Ensure equitable access to pandemic-related vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics
Strengthen collaboration through data and pathogen sharing
Support resilient health systems, especially in low-resource settings
Promote knowledge and technology transfer for local production
Establish sustainable funding mechanisms for rapid response
How will countries benefit from the pandemic agreement?
Countries that sign and ratify the agreement will be entitled to:
Rapid access to 20 per cent of global pandemic-related health product output — 10 per cent as donations, 10 per cent at affordable prices
A Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network (GSCL) for fair resource distribution
A coordinated financial mechanism for emergency response from day one of a pandemic
Access to shared technologies and production knowledge, especially in developing countries
What is the WHO Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing System (PABS)?
The Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing System (PABS), still under negotiation, will govern how countries share biological materials and genome sequences and ensure fair return benefits like vaccines and diagnostics. The PABS annex will be finalised for consideration at the 2026 World Health Assembly.
The treaty also adopts a 'One Health' approach, acknowledging the link between human, animal and environmental health.
What happens next?
The agreement is now open for signature and ratification. It will become binding once ratified by 60 countries. Member states are expected to:
Begin aligning national laws with the agreement
Engage in the development of the PABS annex
Support WHO-led efforts to strengthen health systems, particularly in developing nations
Consider early ratification to expedite the treaty's entry into force
How will the agreement promote equity in vaccine distribution?
The agreement directly addresses vaccine inequity, a major issue during the Covid-19 pandemic. Pharmaceutical manufacturers will be required to reserve:
10 per cent of production for WHO-led donations
10 per cent at reduced prices for distribution to low-income nations
The agreement also discourages vaccine hoarding and promotes timely and transparent supply allocation to vulnerable populations.
What did WHO say about the significance of the treaty?
'The world is safer today thanks to the leadership, collaboration and commitment of our Member States to adopt the historic WHO Pandemic Agreement,' said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in a statement.
He added: 'The Agreement is a victory for public health, science and multilateral action. It will ensure we, collectively, can better protect the world from future pandemic threats. It is also a recognition by the international community that our citizens, societies and economies must not be left vulnerable to again suffer losses like those endured during Covid-19.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
3 hours ago
- Business Standard
Pfizer share price up 3% on rolling out this vaccine; key details inside
Pfizer share price: Pharmaceutical company Pfizer shares were in focus on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, with the stock rising up to 2.92 per cent to an intraday high of ₹5,188 per share. At 9:45 AM, Pfizer shares were trading 2.66 per cent higher at ₹5,175 per share. By comparison, BSE Sensex was trading 0.25 per cent higher at 80,802.18 levels. Why did Pfizer share price rise today? Pfizer's share price gained today after the company announced the launch of its next-generation 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20) for adults in India. Offering broader serotype coverage, the vaccine represents a major step forward in protecting against pneumococcal disease. PCV20 provides immunity against 20 clinically major serotypes that cause the majority of invasive and non-invasive pneumococcal infections. Meenakshi Nevatia, managing director, Pfizer India, said, 'We are excited to launch PCV20, our 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, in India. We believe this vaccine, with its broad coverage of 20 pneumococcal disease serotypes, will address the increasing need for adult immunisation in our country.' Additionally, it will be available as a single-dose vaccine, potentially eliminating the need for a second shot, and is suitable for all adults, including those with chronic health conditions, the company revealed, in a statement. Adults over 50, along with individuals suffering from comorbidities such as asthma, COPD, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes, are at higher risk of contracting pneumococcal infections, which can lead to serious complications, hospitalisations, or death. Timely immunisation is considered crucial to lowering these risks. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines are among the most effective public health measures for reducing the incidence and severity of pneumococcal disease. The launch of PCV20 in India reinforces Pfizer's 25-year track record in pneumococcal vaccine innovation and its ongoing commitment to preventive healthcare. About Pfizer Pfizer is a globally recognised biopharmaceutical company with a legacy spanning more than 170 years. Headquartered in New York City, the company is dedicated to discovering, developing, and delivering medical breakthroughs that improve lives. With operations in over 125 countries, Pfizer plays a critical role in advancing global health through a diverse range of innovative treatments and vaccines. In India, Pfizer has a strong presence, including a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Goa that supports both local and international supply chains. The company's work spans key therapeutic areas such as vaccines, oncology, internal medicine, and rare diseases. Pfizer is a leader in vaccine development, notably using mRNA technology in its Covid-19 vaccine. Its oncology division focuses on cutting-edge cancer treatments, while internal medicine offerings address chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Pfizer also invests in rare disease research and provides popular over-the-counter products like Advil, Nexium, Centrum, and ChapStick.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Myths about mRNA Vaccines: Separating facts from fiction
From wild claims that they can alter your DNA to worries about 'turbo cancer' and vaccine shedding, most of us have seen sensational headlines about mRNA vaccines. These ideas, no matter how impressive they are, often leave us with a plethora of confusion. Can the vaccines really alter DNA? Or can it trigger turbo cancer? What really are the aftereffects of the vaccines? Here's the truth: mRNA vaccines do not change your DNA, do not cause aggressive cancers, and do not emit anything that harms others. Trusted health organizations, scientists, and regulators have thoroughly debunked these myths. And now, we're here with this guide to help you understand what's true and what's not. Busting mRNA vaccine myths : One scientific fact at a time Myth 1: mRNA shots alter your DNA This myth is at the heart of many fears. The truth? mRNA never enters the cell's nucleus, where our DNA lives, so it cannot change your genes. Even some researchers who explored potential DNA integration warn that the risk is no greater than natural mutations we experience daily. Additionally, expert bodies like Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration have confirmed there's no contamination with extra DNA. Myth 2: They were rushed and unsafe While development was fast, that doesn't mean corners were cut. The COVID-era mRNA vaccines went through thorough testing and regulatory review. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Is What Willl Happen To Your Body When You Eat 3 Eggs Every Day Undo Steps were indeed accelerated or overlapped, but none were skipped. Plus, mRNA tech has been under development for years before the pandemic, allowing fast but careful vaccine creation. Researchers had decades of mRNA vaccine knowledge, and trials followed strict safety rules, just sped up by global urgency. Real-world safety data , collected from millions, confirms that most side effects are mild and temporary, like sore arms or tiredness. Myth 3: They cause 'turbo cancer' or long-term harm Some conspiracy theories claim a sudden wave of aggressive cancers is tied to mRNA shots. This so-called 'turbo cancer' idea is not supported by any cancer research . No evidence links the vaccines to new cancers, progression, or recurrence. According to the US National Cancer Institute, "there is no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines cause cancer, lead to recurrence, or lead to disease progression." Myth 4: mRNA vaccines make you shed spike proteins The theory of " vaccine shedding " comes from live-virus vaccines, not mRNA ones. 'Vaccine shedding' can happen only with certain live virus vaccines, and none of the approved mRNA vaccines are in that category; they carry no virus. Since mRNA vaccines have no live virus, there's no shedding. This doesn't apply to mRNA vaccines. Myth 5: mRNA vaccines affect your fertility or cause birth issues Factually, no evidence supports this. Data and research show mRNA vaccines are safe for people trying to conceive, pregnant individuals, and breastfeeding mothers. In fact, antibodies may even pass to the baby via breast milk, offering protection. Health authorities also confirm there's no evidence linking these vaccines to fertility issues in men or women. Myth 6: They don't prevent transmission or are useless While no vaccine is perfect, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines dramatically reduce the risk of severe illness and death. Contrary to early misconceptions, they also lower the chance of spreading. Myth 7: Serious side effects pile up after vaccination Serious reactions are extremely rare. For example , anaphylaxis happens at around 2–5 per million doses, manageable when monitored properly. And while some cases of myocarditis (heart inflammation) were reported in younger males, the risk is still much lower than from an actual COVID-19 infection, and most people recover fully. Why do these myths still persist? These myths, like altered DNA or 'turbo cancer,' often thrive because of fear, sensational headlines, and the speed of social media. A survey across European nations shows a notable segment of people believe vaccines are poorly tested or risky. But a growing number of people also express confidence in vaccines when presented with clear facts. What real-world data tell us? Even as science affirms mRNA vaccine safety and value, political decisions are affecting their future. The US government recently cut $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine research, including contracts with Moderna, sparking concern among scientists that this could hinder preparation for future pandemics. Why trust mRNA vaccines? mRNA vaccines were a scientific breakthrough, and they remain safe, effective, and a vital tool in fighting viruses. Despite persisting myths and scares around them, real-world evidence across large studies shows consistent, mild side effects and strong safety of mRNA vaccines. Furthermore, World Health Organization (WHO) and Lancet analyses estimate that mRNA vaccines prevented millions of deaths around the world. Beyond COVID, mRNA holds promise for flu, cancer, and future outbreaks, even earning a Nobel Prize in 2023. While socio-political challenges and misinformation persist, trusted evidence shows they're more friend than foe. If you want to learn more or still feel uneasy, talk to a doctor or visit reputable sources like the CDC or WHO. This article is intended for general informational purposes only and reflects current scientific understanding as of the time of publication. While the content is based on reputable sources and research, it should not substitute for professional medical advice. Readers with health concerns or questions are encouraged to consult a qualified healthcare provider or trusted health authority. No liability is assumed for any action taken based on the information provided. Hypertension - Separating myths from facts
Hindustan Times
6 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
UP Govt's nod to eye retrieval centre at GIMS, Greater Noida
GREATER NOIDA: Greater Noida, India - December 16, 2019: Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS) , in Greater Noida, India, on Monday, December 16, 2019. (Photo by Sunil Ghosh / Hindustan Times) (HT Archives) The Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS), Greater Noida, has received the Uttar Pradesh government's approval to establish an Eye (Cornea) Retrieval Centre, a facility expected to significantly enhance eye donation and corneal care in Gautam Budh Nagar and neighbouring districts, officials said on Monday. The development will enable local collection of donated corneas and reduce the need for patients from Gautam Budh Nagar, Bulandshahr, and Ghaziabad to travel to far-off centres in Delhi or Meerut. An operational timeline has not yet been announced. Calling the approval a major step towards strengthening specialised healthcare, GIMS director Dr (Brig.) Rakesh Gupta said, 'For too long, patients from Gautam Budh Nagar and neighbouring districts had to travel to Delhi or Meerut for cornea retrieval and related procedures. Now, we will be able to respond swiftly to donations, coordinate with reputed eye banks, and ensure that corneas reach those in need without delay, once the facility becomes operational.' He added that public awareness campaigns to encourage voluntary eye donations are also planned. Located at the junction of the Yamuna Expressway and Eastern Peripheral Expressway, GIMS is a 630-bed tertiary care hospital handling a large volume of road accident victims and critical emergencies. The ophthalmology department receives over 100 outpatients daily, underscoring the need for advanced eye care facilities, officials said. With the upcoming centre, donated corneas will be collected promptly and dispatched to designated Cornea Transplant Centres or Eye Banks under the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCBVI). GIMS is already linked with reputed eye banks, including AIIMS Eye Bank, New Delhi, and Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital Eye Bank, ensuring efficient allocation of corneas. Professor and head of ophthalmology at GIMS, Dr Krishna Kuldeep, said the centre would allow corneal transplant patients to receive treatment within the district, increasing accessibility and reducing wait times. Associate professor and in charge of the Cornea Retrieval Centre, Dr Shailly Raj, said efforts are also on to initiate corneal transplant surgeries at GIMS in the near future. To be sure, corneas can be donated by individuals aged 5 to 80 years, though viability decreases with age. Corneas from donors with infections such as sepsis, hepatitis, HIV, COVID-19, cancer, or other viral illnesses cannot be used. Retrieval must occur within six hours of death, making timely communication with GIMS critical, Dr Raj added. Officials said the centre will not only bring relief and convenience to patients and families but also promote the spirit of voluntary eye donation. The institute has appealed to families to support the cause, which can restore sight and change lives.
