covid vaccine: ‘They lied, billions were made': Doctor exposes COVID-19 ‘vaccine lies' at fiery Senate hearing - The Economic Times Video
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Individual Health Insurers Seek Largest Premium Hikes in Over Five Years
New Delhi: Indian consumers are witnessing significant changes in the individual health insurance and private medical insurance landscape. Over the last few months, many policyholders have reported steep rises in their health insurance premiums. According to official filings and market reports, individual health insurers are now seeking their largest premium hikes in over five years. This trend affects millions of families and individuals who rely on these products for financial security during medical emergencies. Factors leading to premium hikes Several reasons have led individual health insurers to revise rates. During the COVID-19 pandemic, insurance companies faced a sharp surge in claims related to hospitalisation and treatments under private medical insurance policies. In FY22-23, claims ratios for health insurers crossed 90 per cent, up from averages of 60-70 per cent in previous years. This means that for every Rs. 100 collected as premium, insurers paid Rs. 90 as claims, squeezing their profits. Rising medical costs are another key factor. According to the National Health Authority, medical inflation in India averaged 14% in 2022-23, one of the highest in Asia. Treatments, diagnostics, and even standard procedures in private hospitals have become expensive. Insurers adjust premiums upwards to keep pace with these higher payouts. India's Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority ( IRDAI ) reports that insurers have also enhanced coverage with new features such as coverage for mental health, modern treatments like robotic surgery, and day-care procedures. While these are valuable to policyholders, they increase claim outgo, adding pressure on premiums. Regulatory permission for premium increases Health insurers cannot increase premiums arbitrarily. They must file premium revision applications with the IRDAI, which closely examines the justification. In early 2024, at least 14 leading private and public sector insurers, including HDFC Ergo, ICICI Lombard, Star Health , and National Insurance , filed for hikes ranging from 15 per cent to 35 per cent, according to industry estimates and filings reviewed by Mint. For most individual health insurance and private medical insurance products, this is the sharpest rise since FY18, when premiums saw 10-14% increases. Major insurers argue that cumulative inflation and elevated claims from 2020 to 2023 require a correction in rates to maintain product viability. Which policies and consumers are affected the most Impact on individual health insurance policyholders The premium hikes have the greatest impact on individual health insurance customers. These are people who buy policies directly, rather than as part of an employer scheme or family floater. For example, a standard Rs. 5 lakh health cover from a leading private insurer, which was priced at Rs. 8,000 for a 30-year-old in 2019, will now cost between Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 11,000, after the approved hike. For senior citizens or those with pre-existing ailments, increases are even sharper, sometimes up to 25-30 per cent. Group insurance plans see slower increases Corporates and organisations that buy group or employee policies have bargaining power and larger risk pools. Hence, while group policies also see some price increase, these are usually lower than those for individual retail buyers. However, experts warn that persistent medical inflation will eventually influence group premiums as well. How premium hikes affect affordability and healthcare access Increased out-of-pocket expenses With higher premiums, policyholders, especially from the middle class and self-employed segments, are forced to rethink medical cover. Some may reduce the sum insured, opt for policies with co-payment, or even drop coverage altogether. A study by the Insurance Brokers Association of India in early 2024 observed that up to 18 per cent of individual health insurance policyholders considered downgrading or cancelling their policies following the hike announcements. Financial strain on families and vulnerable groups Health costs are among the largest unpredictable expenses for Indian families. A sudden increase in annual premiums by Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 can strain household budgets and lead to delayed renewals or lapses in cover. Senior citizens, who have higher medical needs, are particularly affected as they already pay the highest premiums in the market. This reduces access to private medical insurance, forcing dependence on limited and often overburdened public healthcare services. IRDAI's role and regulatory responses Ensuring consumer protection and industry viability The IRDAI is responsible for balancing the financial health of insurance companies with the well-being of policyholders. The regulator has sought detailed actuarial data and justifications for each premium increase. In numerous cases, IRDAI has moderated or staggered the hikes, asking insurers to spread out increases over two to three years to prevent sudden financial shock. Product standardisation and transparency IRDAI has also introduced guidelines to improve transparency in product features and pricing. Insurers must now clearly state the reason for premium increases in their policy renewal notices and offer comparison charts with other available products, helping consumers make informed decisions. To promote access, IRDAI encourages the launch of standardised products such as Arogya Sanjeevani and Saral Suraksha Bima , which provide basic cover at affordable rates. While these may not have all the bells and whistles of private medical insurance plans, they ensure minimum protection for a larger population base. Expert tips to manage rising individual health insurance costs Shop and compare policies every renewal cycle With premium hikes, loyalty to one insurer is no longer the best option. IRDAI's guidelines now allow portability, making it easy for consumers to switch between insurers while retaining continuity benefits. Always compare features and pricing on official platforms such as the IRDAI website or trusted aggregators before renewing your individual health insurance. Consider top-ups and super top-ups Instead of buying an expensive comprehensive plan, you can take a base cover and add a super top-up plan for higher coverage at a lower overall premium. For example, taking a Rs. 5 lakh base cover with a Rs. 20 lakh super top-up may cost less than buying a single Rs. 25 lakh policy. Many experts recommend this approach for middle-income families and self-employed professionals who need higher protection but want to keep annual outgo manageable. Opt for higher deductibles and co-payments If you are healthy and financially secure, choosing a higher deductible or voluntary co-pay option reduces your annual premium. However, this means you will pay a fixed amount from your pocket in the event of a claim. Carefully evaluate your risk appetite and medical history before choosing this route. Use wellness benefits and claim-free discounts Most individual health insurers now offer wellness programmes, discounts for claim-free years, or incentives for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Actively use these features to reduce your premiums for private medical insurance. Simple steps like routine health check-ups, regular exercise, and non-smoking can have a tangible financial benefit. How to avoid policy lapses after premium hikes Plan for timely renewal Irrespective of premium increases, always renew your policy before the due date. Lapsed individual health insurance policies may result in a loss of waiting period benefits and continuity for pre-existing diseases. Many insurers offer a grace period of 15 to 30 days, but cover for claims is not available during lapses. Seek expert or a financial advisor help If you are unsure about the impact of premium hikes, consult a trusted insurance advisor or financial planner. They can analyse your current needs, suggest suitable individual health insurance products, and guide you on combining covers or switching options without losing protection. Conclusion: Proposed premium hikes in individual health insurance and private medical insurance represent the most substantial increases in over five years for Indian policyholders. While driven by rising healthcare costs, greater claim payouts, and market competition, they create affordability challenges for middle-class families and vulnerable groups. To navigate this evolving landscape, consumers should regularly compare policies, use top-ups creatively, and leverage IRDAI's consumer protection initiatives. Reviewing your health coverage priorities, seeking expert advice, and staying aware of regulatory updates will help manage the impact of premium increases without sacrificing protection. PNN and takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
5 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
7 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
