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Category: COVID-19 Vaccine

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Rwanda: EIB Global Backs Akagera Vaccine Development

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • €2 million support unlocks early-stage development of vaccine manufacturing.
    • Investment to accelerate development of vaccines against tuberculosis, HIV, Ebola and other diseases

    Early-stage vaccine development in Rwanda by Akagera Medicines Africa Limited will be supported by €2 million financing from the European Investment Bank (EIB Global). The new backing will accelerate research and development as well as manufacturing of new vaccines to treat infectious diseases including tuberculosis, HIV, Lassa fever, and Ebola.

    The new financing will also be used to strengthen technical skills and expertise of Rwanda based teams to support home-grown discovery, manufacturing, and development of vaccine delivery systems within Rwanda.

    The latest health financing from the EIB Global is part of the wider EU Global Gateway initiative for Africa and is designed to unlock crucial investment to improve access to public healthcare. EIB Global supports high impact investment to enhance healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturing across Africa, strengthen health resilience on the continent, and support equitable access to healthcare in Africa.

    Africa bears the highest disease burden globally and more home-grown or continent based solutions need to be supported. Vaccination is a critical activity to ensure and guide investments in universal health and has a crucial role to play in achieving 14 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

    Akagera Medicines, Africa was established in Rwanda in July 2022 to develop the pharmaceutical sector in Rwanda and elsewhere in Africa. The company is majority-owned by the Republic of Rwanda through the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB).

    Speaking at the World Health Summit in Berlin, Germany, where the financing announcement was made, Michael Fairbanks, Chief Executive Officer of Akagera Medicines said: “We are a public private partnership and enjoy the support of Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) in Norway, the Gates Foundation, and the National Institute of Health in Washington. With the significant support of the European Investment Bank, we are now a clinical company and moving faster to build human capacity and specialized infrastructure in Africa to support vaccine development. “

    RSSB CEO, Regis Rugemanshuro said: “European Investment Bank’s financial support to Akagera Medicines represents an important contribution to the realization of Rwanda’s vision to become a biotech hub, and to the vision of Africa becoming self-reliant in vaccine and medicine manufacturing. RSSB is looking forward to deepening partnerships with EIB and other international institutions to build resilient healthcare ecosystems in Rwanda and in Africa.”

    EIB Vice President, Thomas Ostros said: “The partnership with Akagera demonstrates the European Investment Bank’s close cooperation with public and private partners to accelerate development of innovative solutions for combating deadly diseases and scaling up healthcare financing and delivery. The EIB is committed to further strengthening our partnership with local and international players, to scale up investment and support innovative technology together.”

    EU Ambassador to Rwanda Belen Calvo Uyarra, said: “Through Global Gateway, the EU is focused on advancing equitable access to health products and local manufacturing in Africa. This investment by EIB with Akagera Medicines marks another important milestone on this journey.”

    The financing to Akagera complements other EU initiatives in Rwanda and the region under the Global Gateway Flagship – Manufacturing and Access to Vaccines, Medicines and Health Technologies (MAV+), which focus mainly on supporting the necessary ecosystem for vaccine manufacturing.

    This is supported by the EU-Africa Infrastructure Trust Fund (EU-AITF), established to increase investment in infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa dedicated to projects in Africa with the aim of reducing poverty and fostering economic growth in the region.

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals.

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner in Global Gateway. We aim to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027, around one third of the overall target of this EU initiative. With Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships, alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through our offices around the world.

    About Akagera:

    Akagera Medicines develops novel liposomal formulations of drugs to treat tuberculosis, RSV, influenza, avian flu, and HIV. The clinical stage company was founded in 2018 in Kigali, Rwanda. It is well-funded, majority-owned by the people of Rwanda through the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB), registered as a Delaware corporation, and has laboratories in Boston and San Francisco. Akagera registered a 100%-owned subsidiary in Kigali in 2022 to do manufacturing and clinical trials. Founding board members include Ambassador Dr. Albrecht Conze, Dr. Paul Farmer, and Dr. Donald Kaberuka. Dr. Daryl Drummond and Dr. Dimitri Kirpotin are cofounders who translate their successful delivery system from oncology to infectious diseases.

    EIB Global Backs Akagera Vaccine Development in Rwanda
    EIB Global Backs Akagera Vaccine Development in Rwanda
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    EIB Global Backs Akagera Vaccine Development in Rwanda
    EIB Global Backs Akagera Vaccine Development in Rwanda
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    EIB Global Backs Akagera Vaccine Development in Rwanda
    EIB Global Backs Akagera Vaccine Development in Rwanda
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    EIB Global Backs Akagera Vaccine Development in Rwanda
    EIB Global Backs Akagera Vaccine Development in Rwanda
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: GAZA/Hospital, Occupied Palestinian Territory, Lebanon & other topics – Daily Press Briefing

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    – GAZA/Hospital
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Lebanon
    – Lebanon/Humanitarian
    – Yemen
    – Nansen Award

    Good afternoon. Let me start off with a couple of updates. First, I will start off with Gaza and then with Lebanon.
    We are aware of the disturbing reports about an Israeli attack on the grounds of a hospital complex in central Gaza. 
    The Secretary-General condemns the large number of civilian casualties in the intensifying Israeli campaign in northern Gaza, including at schools sheltering displacing Palestinians civilians. 
    He strongly urges all parties to the conflict to comply with international humanitarian law and emphasizes that civilians must be respected and protected at all times.  
    Humanitarian assistance into Gaza is woefully inadequate and is at the lowest level in months.  The Secretary-General underscores that the parties must ensure the safe and secure delivery of humanitarian assistance to those in need, at the level of which they need it. There must be a safe environment as well, for the second phase of the polio vaccination campaign in Gaza which is to be completed – and more details on polio in a moment.
    Today, a team from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs – alongside colleagues from the World Health Organization, the UN Mine Action Service, and the UN Human Rights Office – visited the Al Aqsa hospital in Gaza to assess people’s needs following last night’s attack. And Al Aqsa hospital was also meant to be used as one of the polio vaccination sites.
    Out of the hundreds of displaced families sheltering in the courtyard, some 40 families were affected, half of whom lost their shelter and other belongings in the fire.
    Aid organizations are mobilizing the humanitarian response. Among the assistance most urgently needed are tents and tarpaulins, bedding, hygiene kits, clothing, children’s supplies, kitchen kits, as well as food. The assessment noted that patients at Al Aqsa hospital were referred to nearby medical facilities due to an influx of trauma injuries following the strike on UNRWA’s school in Nuseirat.

    Despite all of this, the second round of the polio vaccination campaign began in the middle area of the Gaza Strip. Over the coming 12 days, colleagues at UNRWA, the World Health Organization, UNICEF and other aim to vaccinate around 590,000 children under ten years of age with a second dose of the novel oral polio vaccination type 2.
    This follows a first round – as you will recall – which was successfully implemented from 1-12 September, which reached more than 559,000 children, or an estimated 95 per cent of eligible children at governorate level, that’s according to independently conducted post-campaign monitoring.
    As with the first round, the second round will have three phases, each involving three campaign days and one catch-up day.
    The polio vaccination campaign began, as I mentioned. UNRWA renews its urgent request to all parties to the conflict to implement the necessary humanitarian pauses in Gaza for the second round of vaccination to be successful.
    Meanwhile, the World Food Programme (WFP) today warned that escalating violence in northern Gaza is having a disastrous impact on food security for thousands of Palestinian families. WFP says that the main crossings into the north have been closed and no food entering since 1 October.
    Food distribution points, as well as kitchens and bakeries in North Gaza, have been forced to shut down due to airstrikes, military ground operations and evacuation orders.
    The last of WFP’s food supplies in the north – that includes canned food, wheat flour, high-energy biscuits, and nutrition supplements — have been distributed to shelters, health facilities and kitchens in Gaza City and three shelters in North Gaza.
    If the conflict continues to escalate at the current scale, it is unclear how long these limited food supplies will last, and the consequences for fleeing families will obviously be dire.

    Turning north to the situation in Lebanon, I can tell you that the Secretary-General is in very frequent contact with Force Commander of UNIFIL, the UN peacekeeping mission and that’s Lt. General Aroldo Lázaro.
    The Secretary-General is extremely appreciative of the courage and dedication of the more than 10,000 uniformed peacekeepers and civilian staff serving in the mission.
    Our UNIFIL colleagues continue to monitor the situation. On Sunday, the mission detected 1,557 instances of firing across the Blue Line – that’s the highest number in one day since 8 October 2023 – 1,441 of these originated from south of the Blue Line, primarily striking areas in Sector East of the UNIFIL area of operations.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=14%20October%202024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVUm84Vq_lg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – Are you really ready to give that puppy a furr-ever home? – NZVA

    Source: NZ Veterinary Association
    Are you really ready to give that puppy a furr-ever home?
    Potential dog owners should think twice before getting a puppy to make sure they can financially provide for the animal, and ensure it is safe, well-socialised, trained, and mentally stimulated.
    The New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) strongly advocates for people having animals in loving homes, saying pet ownership is an enriching and rewarding experience, but it is a decision that should be never rushed. The comments follow the release of Auckland Council’s latest Animal Management Annual Report, which outlines a rise in dog-related incidents between 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024.
    The report found welfare-related complaints increased by 80 per cent; there was a 14 per cent increase in dog attacks on people; a 19 per cent increase in attacks on other animals; a 19 per cent increase in the number of high-risk dogs; and a 19 per cent increase in roaming complaints.
    NZVA Head of Veterinary Services (Companion Animal) Sally Cory said the rising figures could be an indication of dog owners experiencing increased financial hardship but the issues also came down to responsible dog ownership. “Having a pet comes with great responsibility, and is never a decision to be taken lightly,” she said. “People need to weigh up whether they can financially support the animal throughout its life. This involves providing preventative healthcare, such as regular check-ups and vaccinations, ensuring de-sexing is carried out at a recommended time, and that early socialisation and training is prioritised. Dogs require not only a financial investment but an investment in time to ensure that they behave appropriately for their families and wider communities.”
    The report showed animal management staff responded to 37,558 requests during the year, up 13 per cent; fewer people were registering their dogs; and the number of roaming or uncontrolled dogs continued to increase. Sadly, the rate of impounded dogs claimed by their owners sat at just 43 per cent. Animal shelter staff have also noticed increased numbers of impounded dogs presenting with challenging behaviour and failing to pass behavioural temperament tests. This determines if the dog is suitable for rehoming.
    NZVA Companion Animal Veterinarians (CAV) President Becky Murphy said potential dog owners must also give considerable thought to the type of dog they choose and make sure it fits in with their lifestyle and expectations. “We must not forget that dogs have natural behaviours, for example chasing, guarding, and hunting, and humans often try to make them fit into moulds that suit our lives,” she said. “This can result in normal, innate dog behaviours being perceived as behavioural issues. Owners need to make sure they do adequate research into dog breeds before selection, and provide their dog with a safe, mentally stimulating, and enriching home environment to ensure they are happy, healthy, and under effective control at all times.”
    Sally adds that it is important dogs are de-sexed (if owners are not intending to breed from them), registered, and microchipped, and young children are always supervised around them.
    Under New Zealand law, dog owners must comply with minimum standards for animal care and management set out in the New Zealand Animal Welfare (Dogs), Code of Welfare 2010, as well as the requirements of their local city or district council.
    NZVA’s Dog Ownership Guidelines
    • Before getting a dog, consider how much time they will take, what they will cost, how big they will get, and if they fit into your lifestyle and living environment.
    • Adequate quantities of nutritious food, clean water, and appropriate shelter should be provided for the dog over its lifespan.
    • Regular health checkups and appropriate exercise should be provided.
    • The dog should be registered and microchipped.
    • Dogs not intended for breeding should be de-sexed.
    • Emergency action planning and alternate care arrangements should be made, should unforeseen circumstances arise.
    • Dogs should be well socialised early, walked on a lead, and waste should not be left in public spaces.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: GAZA: Nowhere safe in Gaza as attacks in the north and hospital ablaze in the south put the lives of children and families at risk

    Source: Save the Children

    Up to 400,000 Palestinians were on Monday trapped across northern Gaza, with at least 300 people reportedly killed in nine days of bombardment, and a hospital sheltering thousands ablaze in the south with no end in sight to the incessant attacks on civilians.
    At Al-Aqsa Hospital in the so-called “humanitarian zone” in the south, patients and families sheltering in tents were on Monday engulfed by a massive fire triggered by an Israeli airstrike” with reports of deaths and multiple causalities. Civilians in the north were directed to the “humanitarian zone” under orders issued by Israeli forces on 7, 9 and 12 October. Al-Aqsa Hospital is just metres away from where children are receiving a second round of polio vaccines.
    Middle East Regional Director for Save the Children Jeremy Stoner said:
    “What we’re seeing now in Gaza looks like the depths of hell with reports day after day of attacks on children and families. Nowhere is safe.
    “In the north, an already starving population has been cut off from food for two weeks while trying to dodge bombs and bullets in a kill zone they cannot leave.
    “In the south – the area to which families in the north were directed for their safety – bombs dropped by Israeli jets have set off a fire that is searing through Al-Aqsa Hospital and tents in the hospital grounds, with reports of rescuers finding burned and charred bodies. ‘Evacuation orders’ are at risk of becoming ‘execution orders’ as children are denied the means to survive.
    “What military goals could justify such mass-scale slaughter of civilians? The notion of collateral damage must never be used to excuse the predictable killing of children. A year ago, there was international outcry when an Israeli rocket damaged Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City, injuring four staff members. How devastatingly far we have descended.
    “Today, Save the Children has begun a second round of polio vaccines for children in our Deir Al-Balah clinic, as children face bombs and fire just 500m away. Never has it been clearer that this is a war on children, their protection only upheld if they’re deemed a risk to those beyond their borders. Without a ceasefire, these vaccinations simply postpone rather than prevent children’s pain. Without immediate international action, children and families across the Gaza Strip face a death sentence – today, tomorrow, in a week, in a month, by bombs, bullets, fire, disease or starvation. Anywhere, any time.
    “Gaza is what can happen without the rules of war. Except there are rules – for parties to the conflict, and for the international community – which are not being respected. The only impactful action taken by some member states is to send the weapons being used to kill children and burn patients and families in hospitals and tents. Humanity has lost its way if those with the ability – and legal obligation – to stop this slaughter choose not to.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Making another stride towards making India global leader in economy and frontline player in ensuring greener, cleaner planet, Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurates India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in Pune

    Source: Government of India

    Making another stride towards making India global leader in economy and frontline player in ensuring greener, cleaner planet, Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurates India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in Pune

    The Facility exemplifies how technological advancements in bioplastics can lead to economic growth: Dr Jitendra Singh

    India’s Bioeconomy grew more than $150 billion in 2023; expected to achieve $300 billion by 2030: the Minister

    Posted On: 13 OCT 2024 6:20PM by PIB Delhi

     Making yet another stride towards making India a global leader in economy and a frontline player in ensuring greener and cleaner planet, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (I/C) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh today inaugurated India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in at Jejuri in Pune from New Delhi today. The facility has been built by Praj Industries.

    Addressing the audience, Dr Jitendra Singh said, “This ‘First-of-its-kind Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in India’ is a pioneering effort in developing indigenously integrated technology for the production of Polylactic Acid (PLA) bioplastic. This marks a pivotal development for India’s commitment to sustainable solutions. This demonstrates India’s resolve to transition from fossil-based plastics to eco-friendly alternatives, crucial for addressing the global plastic pollution crisis.”

    Speaking about India’s advancement in the field of science and technology, he said, “India has emerged as a highly alluring destination on a global scale, propelled by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionary endeavour to establish the country as “Atmanirbhar”. Our Bioeconomy has grown more than $150 billion in 2023, and is expected to achieve $300 billion by 2030.”

    The emphasis on Green Growth in the Union Budget (2023-2024); Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision to make India a ‘Net Zero’ carbon economy and ‘Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE)’ launched by the PM in October 2022. This will also enable dual goals of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make-in India’ with a foundational focus on biosafety, ethics and inclusive growth. He emphasised that the Union has approved the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy of DBT. The BioE3 Policy is an important step forward towards sustainable growth in the backdrop of climate change, depleting non-renewable resources and unsustainable waste generation.

    Dr Jitendra Singh further said, “India now ranks 12th in the world in biotech and 3rd in Asia-pacific. We are the largest vaccine manufacturer and the 3rd largest Startup ecosystem,” adding, the Biotech ecosystem in the country is emerging at a rapid pace with the setting up of 95 bio incubators and increasing numbers of Biotech Startups. The Biotech Startups have experienced remarkable growth, increasing from just about 50 in 2014 to over 8,500 in 2023. The rise of Biotech Startups is pivotal for our future economy. These efforts place India at the forefront of the global bioplastics movement, showing the world how biotechnology can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

     

    Speaking about the partnerships between industry, academia, and government, he said, it is crucial for translating innovative ideas into real-world solutions and fostering innovation through research and development. This facility symbolises a new chapter for India’s bioeconomy. It showcases our ability to lead in technological innovation and offers a sustainable pathway to reducing Environmental impact. He concluded by saying, “It is time for broader synergy among all professions to achieve the “Amrit Kaal” goals over the next 25 years for advancements in the biotechnology sector which underscores India’s potential as a global player in the field.

    *****

    NKR/DK

    (Release ID: 2064526) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda inaugurates 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda inaugurates 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities

    ICDRA is being hosted for the first time in India, bringing together regulatory authorities, policymakers, and health officials from over 194 WHO member states

    During the unprecedented COVID 19 pandemic, India emerged not only as a global leader in health resilience and innovation but also reaffirmed its role as the Pharmacy of the World: Shri JP Nadda

    “The ICDRA platform provides a space to share knowledge, foster partnerships, and develop regulatory frameworks that ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of medical products worldwide”

    “CDSCO has developed robust systems for approving safe and efficacious drugs and medical devices in the country and for export to more than 200 countries in the world”

    “More than 95% regulatory processes currently have been digitized at CDSCO, bringing transparency and increasing trust among stakeholders”

    Global cooperation is important in drug regulation, particularly in light of challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, the post-pandemic world, and the safe use of AI in healthcare: Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 1:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare inaugurated the 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA), here today. The event which is being hosted for the first time in India, from 14th – 18th October by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) brought together regulatory authorities, policymakers, and health officials from over 194 WHO member states.

     

    Addressing the occasion, Shri JP Nadda emphasized on the shared commitment for enhancing global healthcare standards and safeguarding public health. He highlighted that during the unprecedented COVID 19 pandemic, India emerged not only as a global leader in health resilience and innovation but also reaffirmed its role as the Pharmacy of the World. “India rapidly expanded its healthcare infrastructure and scaled up vaccine production to meet both domestic and global demands. The successful rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination program, covering over a billion people, is a testament to the robustness of our healthcare system, the dedication of our health workers, and the soundness of our policies”, he said.

    The Union Health Minister highlighted that India played a crucial role in ensuring affordable access to essential medicines, vaccines, and medical supplies for nations across the globe. “Guided by the principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the world is one family, we extended our support to more than 150 countries, providing life-saving drugs and vaccines during the pandemic. This spirit of international solidarity is at the heart of India’s approach to global health. We believe that our progress is inseparable from the progress of the world, and as such, we remain committed to contributing to global health security and sustainability”, he said.

     

    Shri Nadda noted that “the ICDRA platform provides a space to share knowledge, foster partnerships, and develop regulatory frameworks that ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of medical products worldwide.”

    Highlighting the achievements of CDSCO, Shri Nadda said that “it has developed robust systems for approving safe and efficacious drugs and medical devices in the country and for export to more than 200 countries in the world”. Availability of Quality medicine at affordable price is at the core, he said. He also informed that “8 drug testing labs are operational today while 2 more are in pipeline. 8 Mini testing Labs are operational at different ports for quick testing and release of drugs and raw material being imported. In addition, 38 State Drug Regulator’s Testing Labs are operational. Altogether, more than a hundred thousand samples are being tested every year under regulatory surveillance mechanism.”

    The Union Minister also stated that “more than 95% regulatory processes currently have been digitized at CDSCO, bringing transparency and increasing trust among stakeholders.” He also stated that, “Considering the importance of medical devices in health care delivery, Medical Device industry in India is also being regulated. Drugs Rules have been amended to make Good Manufacturing Practice Guidelines more comprehensive and at par with the WHO-GMP guidelines.”

    It was also pointed out that in order to make drug supply chain robust, it has been made mandatory to provide Bar Code or Quick Response Code (QR Code) on top 300 brands of drug products. Similarly, QR Code is mandatory on all API packs, either being imported or manufactured in India.

    The Union Minister concluded his address by underscoring India’s full committed to advancing global health. “We believe in 3 Ss i.e. “Skill, Speed and Scale” and by focusing on these three aspects, we have been able to meet the increasing demand for Pharma products while adhering to global quality standards without any compromise. We are prepared to address pressing challenges, from antimicrobial resistance to ensuring equitable access to life-saving treatments. We are not just participants in this dialogue; we are partners in building a healthier, safer and more resilient world”, he said.

    Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, in his speech, commended India for hosting this crucial global regulatory forum and highlighted the importance of global cooperation in drug regulation, particularly in light of challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, the post-pandemic world, and the safe use of AI in healthcare.

    Dr Saima Wazed, Regional Director, WHO Southeast Asia Region stated that “India is the largest provider of generic medicines while the Indian Pharmaceutical Industry is the third largest in the world. She noted that India provides over 50% of the world’s vaccine demands. She emphasized that a strong regulatory system is crucial to achieving universal health coverage and highlighted the need for strengthened regulatory convergence and information sharing between national regulatory authorities.

    Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary stated that “the Indian pharmaceutical industry has recently become the 4th largest export sector of India, exemplifying the level of our integration into the global pharmaceutical supply chain. India is the third largest producer of pharmaceuticals in the world, and has the largest number of US FDA approved plants outside the USA.” She also highlighted that “India supply 50% of the world’s vaccines, most of them going to UN agencies like WHO, UNICEF and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and to organisations like GAVI.

    Ms. Malebona Precious Matsoso, Co-Chair, WHO Intergovernmental Negotiation Body, South Africa said that “regulation of medical products is one of the most crucial aspects today. The impact of regulatory decisions is found not only at the national or global level but also in the hospital rooms.” Public health interventions and response can be shortened through efficient regulation and oversight, she said.

    Highlighting India as the pharmacy of the world, she said that this tag comes with certain expectations and capacities about India. She concluded her address by emphasising on smart regulation as opposed to under-regulation and over-regulation.

    Dr. Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, Drugs Controller General of India highlighted India’s achievements in drugs control and medical devices sector, including the approval of India’s first CAR T-cell therapy. “We are continuously upgrading our skills and capacities in our systems and are on a path towards low regulation and high execution”, he said.

    As a precursor to the main conference, an exhibition was also held which showcased India’s innovation, capabilities, and leadership in the pharmaceutical, medical devices, and clinical research sectors. Key industry players, including pharmaceutical giants, medical device manufacturers, and healthcare innovators, presented their advancements and breakthroughs to an international audience of regulators and stakeholders. This exhibition served as a testament to India’s standing as the “Pharmacy of the World” and its growing influence in global healthcare.

    In addition to the main conference sessions, several side meetings will take place, where representatives from various countries will engage in focused discussions on specific regulatory challenges and opportunities. These meetings will facilitate bilateral and multilateral dialogues on strengthening regulatory systems, promoting innovation, and fostering collaboration to address global health needs.

    Key Discussions and Regulatory Challenges

    The 5-day conference will feature a series of insightful sessions where regulatory authorities and industry leaders will deliberate on key issues affecting global drug and medical device regulation. Some of the prominent sessions include:

    • Plenary Session on Smart Regulation: Discussions will revolve around the evolving landscape of regulatory reliance and the World Listed Authorities (WLA) framework. Global regulators will explore how to enhance cooperation to streamline processes across countries.
    • Workshops on Medical Devices: A significant focus will be placed on the regulation of medical devices, including IVDs (In Vitro Diagnostics), where experts will discuss trends in global and regional regulatory frameworks.
    • Quality of Pharmaceutical Starting Materials: This workshop will shed light on the need for stringent regulations in ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products from their very inception.
    • Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Regulators and industry experts will discuss the role of AI in improving regulatory oversight, pharmaco-vigilance, and clinical trials, while also addressing the challenges related to data privacy and implementation.
    • Regulatory Preparedness in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic: This is a plenary session focused on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for continued regulatory innovation to prepare for future public health emergencies.

    The 19th ICDRA will emphasize strengthening global regulatory systems through partnerships and collective efforts. Regulatory authorities from various nations will discuss challenges and opportunities in harmonizing regulations for medical products, addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and advancing traditional medicines.

    Dr Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Dept. of Health Research and DG ICMR; Shri Rajiv Wadhawan, Advisor (Cost), Health Ministry; Dr Roderico H. Ofrin, WHO Representative to India and senior officials of the Union Health Ministry were present at the event.

    ***

    MV

    HFW/ HFM ICDRA Inaugural /14th October 2024/1

    (Release ID: 2064618) Visitor Counter : 105

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024 in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024 in New Delhi

    PM inaugurates 8th edition of India Mobile Congress

    In India, we have made telecom not just a medium of connectivity, but also a medium of equity and opportunity: PM

    We identified four pillars of Digital India and started working on all four pillars simultaneously and we got results: PM

    We are working towards giving the world a complete Made in India phone, from chip to finished product: PM

    The length of optical fiber that India has laid in just 10 years is eight times the distance between the Earth and the Moon: PM

    India democratized digital technology: PM

    Today India has such a digital bouquet which can take welfare schemes to new heights in the world: PM

    India is working towards the goal of making technology sector inclusive, empowering women through technology platforms: PM

    The time has come for global institutions to accept importance of Global framework for digital technology, global guidelines for global governance: PM

    We have to ensure that our future is both technically strong and ethically sound, Our future should have innovation as well as inclusion: PM

    Posted On: 15 OCT 2024 1:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2024 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi today. Shri Modi also inaugurated the 8th edition of India Mobile Congress during the programme. He took a walkthrough of the exhibition showcased on the occasion.

    Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister welcomed the Union Minister for Communication Shri Jyotiradiya Scindia, Minister of State for Communication Shri Chandrasekhar  Pemmasani, Secretary General of  ITU Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Ministers & dignitaries of various foreign countries, industry leaders, telecom experts, youths from the Startup world and ladies and gentlemen to the WTSA and India Mobile Congress (IMC). Welcoming the dignitaries of ITU, Shri Modi thanked and appreciated them for choosing India as the destination for the first WTSA meeting. “India is one among the most happening countries when it comes to telecom and its related technologies”, exclaimed Shri Modi. Listing the achievements of India, Shri Modi said that India had a mobile phone user base of 120 crores or 1200 million, 95 crore or 950 million internet users and digital transactions of more than 40% of the entire world in real-time. He further added that India had showcased how digital connectivity had become an effective tool for the last mile delivery. He congratulated everyone for choosing India as the destination for discussing the global telecommunication standard and discussion on the future for telecom as a global good. 

    Highlighting the significance of the combined organization of WTSA and India Mobile Congress, the Prime Minister said that WTSA’s objective is to work on global standards while the role of India Mobile Congress is associated with services. He said that today’s event brings global standards and services on a single platform. Emphasizing India’s focus on quality service and standards, the Prime Minister said that WTSA’s experience would provide new energy to India. 

    The Prime Minister underlined that WTSA empowers the world via consensus and while India Mobile Congress strengthens the world through connectivity. Therefore, Shri Modi said, consensus and connectivity are conjoined in this event. He stressed the need for the combination in today’s world which is marred by conflict and said that India has been living through the immortal message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. He mentioned the G20 Summit presided by India and spoke about relaying the message of ‘One Earth One Family One Future’. The Prime Minister emphasized that India is engaged in bringing the world out of conflict and connecting it. “Be it the ancient silk route or today’s technology route, India’s only mission is to connect the world and open new doors of progress”, the Prime Minister remarked. In such a situation, said the Prime Minister, this partnership of WTSA and IMC is a great message where local and global combine to bring the benefits not to just one country but the entire world.

    “India’s mobile and telecom journey in the 21st century is a subject of study for the whole world”, exclaimed Shri Modi. He added that while mobile and telecom were seen as a facility across the world, however, telecom was not just a medium of connectivity, but a medium of equity and opportunity in India. The Prime Minister remarked that telecom as a medium was helping in bridging the gap between villages and cities, rich and poor today. Reminiscing his presentation, a decade ago, on vision of Digital India, Shri Modi remarked that he had stated that India had to move forward with a holistic approach as against a piece-meal approach. Shri Modi listed out the four pillars of Digital India – Low-priced devices, extensive reach of digital connectivity to every nook and corner of the country, easily accessible data and goal of ‘Digital First’, which were identified and worked upon simultaneously, leading to good results.

    The Prime Minister highlighted India’s transformative achievements in connectivity and telecom reforms and emphasized how the country has built a robust network of thousands of mobile towers across remote tribal, hilly, and border areas, ensuring connectivity for every household. He said that the government has created a strong network of mobile towers across the country. The Prime Minister underscored the remarkable advancements in infrastructure, including the rapid installation of Wi-Fi facilities at public places like railway stations and the connection of islands like Andaman-Nicobar and Lakshadweep through undersea cables. “In just 10 years, India has laid optical fiber which is eight times the distance between Earth and the Moon”, he added. Shri Modi also pointed out India’s rapid adoption of 5G technology and said that 5G technology was launched two years ago and today nearly every district is connected, making India the world’s second-largest 5G market. He further mentioned that India is already progressing towards 6G technology, ensuring a future-ready infrastructure.

    Discussing telecom sector reforms, the Prime Minister noted India’s efforts in lowering data costs. He said that the cost of internet data in India is now as low as 12 cents per GB compared to many countries in the world where one GB of data is 10 to 20 times more expensive. “Today, every Indian consumes about 30 GB of data on an average every month”, he said.

    Shri Modi noted that all such efforts have been taken to a new scale by the fourth pillar i.e. the spirit of digital first. He underlined that India democratized digital technology and created digital platforms  where innovations on these platforms created millions of new opportunities. Shri Modi highlighted the transformative power of the JAM Trinity—Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile—saying it has laid the foundation for countless innovations. He mentioned Unified Payments Interface (UPI) which has provided new opportunities for many companies and also spoke about ONDC which will revolutionize digital commerce. The Prime Minister pointed out the role of digital platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic ensuring seamless processes such as financial transfers to those in need, real-time communication of guidelines, vaccination drive  and handing out digital vaccine certificates. Reflecting on India’s success, the Prime Minister expressed the nation’s willingness to share its digital public infrastructure experience globally. The Prime Minister said India’s digital bouquet can elevate welfare schemes worldwide highlighting India’s emphasis on  Digital Public Infrastructure during G20 Presidency. He underlined that the nation is happy to share its DPI knowledge with all countries.

    Emphasizing the importance of Network of women initiative during the WTSA, Shri Modi highlighted that India was working very seriously on women led development. He added that the commitment was taken forward during India’s presidency of G-20. The Prime Minister underlined that India was working towards the goal of making the technology sector inclusive by empowering the women through technology platforms. He highlighted the crucial role of women scientists in India’s Space missions, rising number of women co-founders in India’s start-ups. The Prime minister also noted that there was a 40 percent share of women students in India’s STEM education and India was creating umpteen opportunities for women in technology leadership. Shri Modi also highlighted the Namo Drone Didi program of the Government, to promote drone revolution in agriculture, was being led by women from villages in India. He added that India also started the Bank Sakhi program to take digital banking and digital payments to every home which had led to digital awareness. Highlighting the critical role of Asha and Anganwadi workers in India’s primary healthcare, maternity and child care, Shri Modi remarked that today these workers were tracking all the work through tabs and apps. He added that India was also running the Mahila E-Haat program, an online marketing platform for women entrepreneurs. He further added that it was unimaginable that today women of India in every village were working on such technology. Shri Modi expressed hope that in the times to come, India will expand its scope further where every daughter of India would be a tech leader.

    The Prime Minister reiterated the importance of establishing a global framework for digital technology. He emphasized that this topic was raised by India during its G-20 Presidency and urged global institutions to recognize its significance for global governance. “The time has come for global institutions to accept the importance of global governance”, PM Modi stated. Stressing the need to create a ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ for technology on the global level, the Prime Minister highlighted the borderless nature of digital tools and applications and urged for international collaboration in combating cyber threats and collective action by global institutions. He drew parallels with the aviation sector which already has well-established frameworks. PM Modi called upon the WTSA to take a proactive role in creating a secure digital ecosystem and safe channel for telecommunication. “In an interconnected world, security cannot be an afterthought. India’s Data Protection Act and National Cyber Security Strategy reflect our commitment to building a safe digital environment”, he noted. The Prime Minister urged the members of the assembly to create standards that are inclusive, secure, and adaptable to future challenges, including ethical AI and data privacy standards that respect the diversity of nations.

    The Prime Minister emphasized the need for a human-centric dimension to the ongoing technological revolution, calling for responsible and sustainable innovation. He said that the standards set today will determine the direction of the future, stressing that principles of security, dignity and equity should be at the center of our discussions. He said our goal should be that no country, no region and no community is left behind in this digital transformation and underscored the need for innovation balanced with inclusion. He urged to ensure that the future is technically strong as well as ethically sound with innovation as well as inclusion. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister conveyed his best wishes for the success of WTSA and also extended his support.

    Union Minister for Communication, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia and Union Minister of State for Communication, Shri Chandrasekhar  Pemmasani were present on the occasion along with various industry leaders.

    Background

    World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly or WTSA is the governing conference for the standardization work of International Telecommunication Union, the United Nations Agency for Digital Technologies, organized every four years. It is for the first time that the ITU-WTSA will be hosted in India and the Asia-Pacific. It is a pivotal global event that will bring together more than 3,000 industry leaders, policy-makers and tech experts from over 190 countries, representing telecom, digital and ICT sectors.

    WTSA 2024 will provide a platform for countries to discuss and decide the future of standards of next-generation critical technologies like 6G, AI, IoT, Big Data, cybersecurity, etc. Hosting this event in India will provide the country an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the global telecom agenda and to set the course for future technologies. Indian startups and research institutions are set to gain critical insights into developing Intellectual Property Rights and Standard Essential Patents.

    India Mobile Congress will showcase India’s innovation ecosystem, where leading telecom companies and innovators will highlight advancements in  Quantum technology and Circular Economy along with spotlight on 6G, 5G use-case showcase, cloud & edge computing, IoT, semiconductors, cybersecurity, green tech, satcom and electronics manufacturing.

    India Mobile Congress, Asia’s largest digital technology forum, has become a well-known platform across the globe for showcasing innovative solutions, services and state-of-the-art use cases for industry, government, academics, startups and other key stakeholders in the technology and telecom ecosystem. The India Mobile Congress will showcase over 400 exhibitors, about 900 startups, and participation from over 120 countries. The event also aims to showcase more than 900 technology use case scenarios, host more than 100 sessions and discussion with over 600 global and Indian speakers.

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI USA: News Release – DOH Reports Additional Mpox Cases

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    News Release – DOH Reports Additional Mpox Cases

    Posted on Oct 11, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

    KA ʻOIHANA OLAKINO

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIA‘ĀINA

    KENNETH S. FINK, MD, MGA, MPH
    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HO‘OKELE

    DOH REPORTS ADDITIONAL MPOX CASES

    Mpox vaccination encouraged for anyone at risk

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    October 11, 2024                                                                                                    24-135

    HONOLULU — The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) is reporting two additional cases of mpox diagnosed in Hawaiʻi. One case was associated with out-of-state exposure. In the other case, no out-of-state exposure or link to other prior cases was identified, suggesting the mpox infection was locally acquired.

    There have been seven mpox cases diagnosed in Hawai‘i in 2024. These additional cases bring the total number of cases reported to the Hawaiʻi DOH since June 3, 2022 to 53. Those at higher risk of mpox infection should consider being vaccinated with two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine. JYNNEOS vaccination will be offered at this year’s Honolulu Pride Festival, Saturday Oct. 19 at the Waikīkī Shell.

    Health care providers in each county continue to vaccinate high-risk individuals. Additionally, retail pharmacy chains CVS and Walgreens now offer JYNNEOS vaccinations. Find a provider offering the vaccine here: https://health.hawaii.gov/mpox.

    Transmission

    The risk of mpox infection remains low for most Hawai‘i residents. Mpox is mainly spread through close, intimate contact with body fluids, lesion material or items used by someone with mpox. The infection may be spread through large respiratory droplets, which generally cannot travel more than a few feet, so prolonged contact is required.

    The current cases of clade II mpox, both nationally and in Hawai‘i, are primarily spreading among social networks of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. However, anyone who has close contact with someone with mpox is at risk of infection, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

    Ask new partners about their health, including recent rashes or sores. If you or your partner feel sick or have new or unexplained rashes or sores, avoid close contact with others until getting checked out by a health care provider. Don’t share bedding, clothing, or toothbrushes with people outside your household. If attending events with lots of direct, skin-to-skin contact, minimizing physical contact and partners can reduce risk.

    Symptoms, Testing and Treatment

    Individuals with mpox symptoms, including flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, or new or unexplained rashes or sores, should immediately contact their health care provider. Testing and treatment are available. Persons without a health care provider can seek care at the STI/HIV Clinic at the Diamond Head Health Center.

    Public Health Monitoring for Clade I Mpox Virus

    On Aug. 14, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared an ongoing clade I mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). The clade I mpox has not been detected in the U.S. or Hawaiʻi and only few travel-associated cases have been identified to date outside the currently affected countries in central Africa.

    The Hawaiʻi Department of Health will continue to monitor for clade I mpox through investigation of all suspected mpox cases. Hawaiʻi residents traveling internationally are encouraged to review updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mpox vaccination recommendations and travel health notices.

    The JYNNEOS vaccine, which protects against clade II mpox, is also expected to protect against clade I mpox.

    Vaccination Recommendations

    The JYNNEOS vaccine is available statewide. For full protection, you should get two doses of JYNNEOS four weeks apart. Those at higher risk for mpox and who should consider being vaccinated include:

    • Individuals who meet both the following criteria:
      • Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, as well as transgender people who have sex with men; and
      • Have multiple or casual sex partners (such as through dating apps) or expect to have this mpox risk in the future.
    • People who have a sex partner in any of the categories described above;
    • Anyone with close contact in the last 14 days to a person with known or suspected mpox infection;
    • Travelers to a country with a clade I mpox outbreak who anticipate any of the following activities during travel, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation:
      • Sex with a new partner
      • Sex at a commercial sex venue (e.g., a sex club or bathhouse)
      • Sex in exchange for money, goods, drugs or other trade
      • Sex in association with a large public event (e.g., a rave, party, or festival)
    • Anyone in any of these categories who has received only one mpox vaccine dose.

    Vaccine Sites 

    Pharmacies 

    Vaccine Clinics 

    Oʻahu residents can contact:

    • Hawaiʻi Health & Harm Reduction Center (in Honolulu) at 808-521-2437
    • Kaiser Permanente, Māpunapuna Medical Office (in Honolulu) at 808-432-2000
    • Waikīkī Health at 808-922-4787

    Kauaʻi residents can contact:

    • Malama Pono Health Services (in Līhuʻe) at 808-246-9577

    Maui residents can contact:

    • Malama I Ke Ola Health Center (in Wailuku) at 808-871-7772

    Hawaiʻi Island residents can contact:

    • Hāmākua-Kohala Health Centers (in Honokaʻa) at 808-930-2751
    • Kumukahi Health + Wellness (in Hilo and Kona) at 808-982-8800

    On April 1, 2024, Bavarian Nordic commercially launched its JYNNEOS vaccine and opened ordering of the vaccine through commercial wholesalers. As a result, the JYNNEOS vaccine may potentially be accessed at other clinics and pharmacies. Those interested in getting mpox vaccination at other locations can call ahead to determine availability.

    Further information and updates can be found at health.hawaii.gov/mpox.

    # # #

    Media Contact:

    Kristen Wong

    Information Specialist

    Hawaiʻi State Department of Health

    808-586-4407

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh performs Shastra Pooja with troops at Sukna Military Station on the occasion of Dussehra

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh performs Shastra Pooja with troops at Sukna Military Station on the occasion of Dussehra

    Lauds soldiers for their vigilance & critical role in maintaining peace & stability along the borders

    “India has never attacked any country out of hatred or contempt, but if our interests are threatened, we will not hesitate to take a big step”

    Posted On: 12 OCT 2024 12:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh performed the traditional Shastra Pooja at the Sukna Military Station in West Bengal on October 12, 2024 on the auspicious occasion of Dussehra. This significant ceremony in the Indian Army symbolises the respect for weapons as the protectors of the nation’s sovereignty.

    Raksha Mantri initiated the rituals with Kalash Pooja, followed by the Shastra Pooja and Vahan Pooja. He also offered prayers to a range of modern military equipment, including state-of-the-art infantry, artillery and communication systems, mobility platforms, and drone systems. The event concluded with Raksha Mantri’s interaction with the troops.

    In his address, Shri Rajnath Singh commended the vigilance and critical role of the Armed Forces in maintaining peace & stability along the borders. He stated that Dussehra symbolises the victory of good over evil, and the soldiers possess the same respect for human values.

    “India has never attacked any country out of hatred or contempt. We fight only when someone insults or tries to harm our integrity and sovereignty; when war is waged against religion, truth & human values. This is what we have inherited. We will continue to preserve this heritage. However, if our interests are threatened, we will not hesitate to take a big step. Shastra Pooja is a clear indication that if need be, the weapons/equipment will be used with full force,” Raksha Mantri said.

    The rituals, performed to seek blessings for strength, success & safety reaffirm the cultural and spiritual depth of Dussehra, underscoring the pivotal role of weapon systems in safeguarding the country. They symbolise the preparedness, resolve, and unwavering dedication of the Armed Forces to protect the nation. The ceremony highlighted the Indian Army’s blend of tradition and modernisation, with a focus on preserving India’s sovereignty and promoting indigenous defence systems & platforms.

    The event was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary-designate Shri RK Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari, DG Border Roads Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, General Officer Commanding, Trishakti Corps Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla and other senior officers.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pregnant women and older adults eligible for RSV vaccine

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    RSV is a major respiratory virus that is common over the winter period, typically November to February. While the symptoms are mild for many, it accounts for around 30,000 hospitalisations of children under 5 in the UK annually, and for 20 to 30 infant deaths.

    It can also be severe in older adults, causing pneumonia and flare ups of existing lung disease and other long term conditions and leading to around 9,000 hospitalisations in those aged over 75 in the UK every year.

    It may cause a cough or a cold, wheezing, shortness of breath, tiredness and fever, as well as bronchiolitis in infants, which can make it difficult to breathe and feed. Most cases are not serious and clear up within 2 to 3 weeks.

    All women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant are being offered a single dose of the RSV vaccine to help protect their newborn babies and should speak to their maternity service or GP to arrange this. Meanwhile all adults aged 75 and over are also eligible and will be invited by their GP.

    John Denley, Wolverhampton’s Director of Public Health, said: “RSV is a common cause of coughs and colds. Infections usually get better by themselves but can sometimes be serious for babies and older adults.

    “The RSV vaccine is given all year round but it’s particularly important that people who are eligible for the jab make sure they are protected as we head into the winter months, when the virus is more common.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientific Symposium at the Polytechnic: New Technologies in Medicine and Physiology

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    On October 10 and 11, the Polytechnic University hosted a scientific symposium entitled “New Technologies in Preventive Medicine and Physiology”. The event was organized by Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, the St. Petersburg Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences with the participation of the Preventive Medicine Section of the Medical Sciences Department of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Physiological Sciences Department of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    The symposium, dedicated to new technologies in preventive medicine and physiology, was held as part of the events for the 125th anniversary of the founding of SPbPU. The participants were members of the Russian Academy of Sciences, leading experts in the field of immunology, virology, physiology, brain sciences, as well as young scientists, postgraduates and senior students of SPbPU.

    It is a great honor for us that such an event is held at the Polytechnic University. This means that our university is a significant part of the process of forming advanced scientific thought in the field of life sciences in the Russian Federation. Any high-quality research requires a serious material and technical base, constant continuity, and development of educational programs. To achieve maximum efficiency, we must concentrate our knowledge, transmit it, and combine efforts at events like our symposium, – the first vice-rector of SPbPU Vitaly Sergeev opened the event.

    After this, the event participants were greeted by the guests of honor.

    We are facing extremely serious tasks that can only be solved by consolidating all our efforts. The areas that we are discussing at the symposium are priorities. This is the development of mRNA drugs, the creation of vaccines, genetically engineered biological drugs, medicines, and many others. I am confident that today’s event will be another contribution to the development of science not only in St. Petersburg, but also in our country, – emphasized the head of the Rheumatology Research Laboratory, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Honored Scientist of the Russian Federation, Chief Scientific Secretary of the Presidium of the North-West Branch of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences Vadim Mazurov.

    Polytechnic University has already become a bit like home for me. For many years, we have been cooperating with the university in two areas. Firstly, this is the educational level: we give online lectures to students. Secondly, we have close scientific cooperation in the field of microRNA, as well as in the creation of vaccines, primarily subunit, recombinant ones. The symposium presents reports on various topics, but all of them are related to the most pressing medical and biological problems, – noted the scientific director of the I. I. Mechnikov Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, head of the preventive medicine section of the Department of Medical Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences Vitaly Zverev.

    Words of gratitude to the Polytechnic University for holding the symposium were expressed by Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Advisor to the Russian Academy of Sciences Yuri Natochin.

    The first report was given by the Director of the Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, Professor of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Vasin. He spoke about the development of “life sciences” at the Polytechnic and the contribution of Polytechnic scientists to the development of these sciences.

    Andrey Vasin presented the main areas of scientific activity of the Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology and its structural divisions, in particular the Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration under the direction of Ilya Bezprozvanny, the Research Complex “Nanobiotechnology”, the Research Laboratory “Polymer Materials for Tissue Engineering and Transplantology”, the Laboratory of Nano- and Microencapsulation of Biologically Active Substances.

    Yuri Natochin spoke about the problems of stabilizing the physicochemical parameters of blood, Vitaly Zverev spoke about vaccination. Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Sergei Seredenin spoke about the report “Pharmacological regulation of Sigma1R chaperone”. Director of the Pasteur Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology of Rospotrebnadzor, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Areg Totolyan spoke about COVID-19 and the development of infectious immunology.

    A joint work dedicated to new technologies for the prevention of infections associated with the provision of medical care was presented by the head of the Department of Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Medicine of the First Moscow State Medical University named after I. M. Sechenov, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Nikolay Briko, an employee of the Kemerovo State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia Elena Brusnina and the director of the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Vasily Akimkin.

    The report “Natural technologies for controlling the activity of neural networks in the long-term range” was presented by the Director of the Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Pavel Balaban.

    Director of the Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnology of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia Vsevolod Belousov spoke about oxidative stress in neurodegenerative diseases.

    On the second day of the symposium, visiting sessions of the Bureau of the Section of Preventive Medicine of the Department of Medical Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Bureau of the Department of Physiological Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences were held.

    Research in the field of life sciences began at the Polytechnic University back in the 1960s, when the Physics and Mechanics Department began training personnel in the field of “Biophysics”. Our university has become a real forge of personnel for domestic molecular biology, physiology, biophysics, virology and even medicine. Many Polytechnic graduates have been successfully working in the leading scientific institutes of our country for half a century and head some of them. A number of graduates are members of the departments of medical, physiological and medical sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences. As part of the research conducted at the Polytechnic University, we collaborate with leading Russian and foreign research teams. I am very glad that we were able to gather such a large number of leading scientists of our country in the field of physiology and preventive medicine at the university. I would also like to note that we held two visiting Bureaus – the Department of Physiology of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the section of preventive medicine of the Department of Medical Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences, – Andrey Vasin summed up.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/science_and_innovations/scientific-symposium-at-polytechnic-new-technologies-in-medicine-and-physiology/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Become cultural ambassadors of the country, urges Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Become cultural ambassadors of the country, urges Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

    Union Culture and Tourism Minister addresses students at Viksit Bharat Ambassador-Yuva Connect programme at DY Patil Deemed To Be University

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 4:30PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 10 October 2024

     

    Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat urged the youth of the country to become cultural ambassadors of the country. Shri Shekhawat was speaking at the Viksit Bharat Ambassador Yuva Connect programme at DY Patil Deemed To Be University, in Navi Mumbai today. Shri Shekhawat said that India is a point of attraction for huge number of global tourists. In this connection, he asked the youth and student community to be the bearers and protectors of the country’s culture, traditions and values.

    Speaking on the occasion, Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Shekhawat said youth of the country will be builders of Viksit Bharat and in the future, people living in a developed India will give today’s youth credit for bringing about Viksit Bharat. He urged them to fulfill the dreams of the country’s revered freedom fighters who sacrificed themselves for making India independent from colonial rulers. The Union Minister said that now is the time and opportunity to contribute towards nation building with the aim to bring about Viksit Bharat in 2047, which then will be a true homage to our freedom fighters.

    Shri Shekhawat stated that the Central Government, under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, in the last years had adopted the strategy of ‘Reform, Perform, Transform’ that brought about a change in the lives of many citizens. This strategy led to initiatives for Banking the Unbanked and start of the world’s largest financial inclusion, Funding the unfunded, Public Distribution System, Skilling the Unskilled, One Nation One Market for Agricultural Produce and Insuring the uninsured. In the last ten years, the country has also seen development and transformation of infrastructure at a huge scale. The Government has also stressed on digitization and digital payments which has become a precedence for many other countries.  The emphasis on Digital India also led to implementation of the biggest vaccination drive in the country during COVID-19. Stating these, Shri Shekhawat said, today India is the third largest economy in the world and the youth of the country have largely contributed towards taking the country forward. 

    Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Shekhawat said that self-sufficiency or ‘aatmanirbharta’ is the way forward. In this context, the Minister stated the thrust ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ has been felt in many sectors, like the defence manufacturing sector. Tejas aircrafts are highly sought after by many countries, he added. Shri Shekhawat said India’s success story has been brought about by speed and scale of development, zero tolerance towards corruption and traditional values of the country. 

    Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also interacted with the student achievers on the occasion. Dr. Vijay D. Patil, Chancellor and President of DY Patil Deemed To Be University, Dr. Shivani V. Patil, Pro Vice Chancellor and Vice President of DY Patil Deemed To Be University, Vice Chancellor Smt. Vandana Mishra and NYKS Director (Maharashtra and Goa) Shri Prakash Kumar Manure were present amongst the dignitaries on the occasion.  

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint Statement on Strengthening ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace, Stability and Prosperity in the Region in the context of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) with the support of India’s Act East Policy (AEP)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 5:41PM by PIB Delhi

    WE, the Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Republic of India, gathered on the occasion of the 21st ASEAN-India Summit on 10 October 2024 in Vientiane, Lao PDR;

    REAFFIRMING our commitment to promote the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, guided by the fundamental principles, shared values and norms that have steered the ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations since its establishment in 1992, including those enunciated in the Vision Statement of ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit (2012), the Delhi Declaration of the ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit to mark the 25th Anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations (2018), the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific for Peace, Stability, and Prosperity in the Region (2021), the Joint Statement on ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2022), the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Maritime Cooperation (2023) and ASEAN-India Joint Leaders’ Statement on Strengthening Food Security and Nutrition in Response to Crises (2023);

    WELCOMING the Decade of Act East Policy of India, where ASEAN is at the heart and of utmost priority, which has contributed to advancing ASEAN-India relations through cooperation in areas of political-security, economic, cultural and people-to-people relations;

    ACKNOWLEDGING the deep civilisational linkages and cross-cultural exchanges, facilitated through both land and maritime routes between Southeast Asia and India, encompassing the various seas and oceans of the Indo-Pacific, providing a strong foundation for the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership;

    WELCOMING the activities and initiatives held in the year 2024 on the occasion of the decade of Act East Policy to further strengthen the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership;

    RECOGNISING India’s support for ASEAN Centrality and unity in the evolving regional architecture and its commitment to work closely through ASEAN-led mechanisms and fora including the ASEAN-India Summit, East Asia Summit (EAS), Post Ministerial Conference with India (PMC+1), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) and Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum (EAMF) as well as support to ASEAN integration and the ASEAN Community building process including Master Plan for ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) and ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP);

    NOTING the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution A/RES/78/69 which emphasises, in the Preamble, the universal and unified character of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and reaffirms that the Convention sets out the legal framework within which all activities in the oceans and seas must be carried out and is of strategic importance as the basis for national, regional and global action and cooperation in the marine sector, and that its integrity needs to be maintained;

    APPRECIATING efforts towards implementation of the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific for Peace, Stability, and Prosperity in the Region through trust and confidence based on shared democratic values, strong belief in sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a shared commitment to the rule of law and the principles of the UN Charter;

    REAFFIRMING our commitment to upholding multilateralism, the purposes and principles enshrined in the UN Charter and respect for international law, while recognising ASEAN’s rising global relevance and unique convening power amid the emerging multipolar global architecture and noting the growing and active role of India in major international economic and political affairs.

    Do hereby declare to

    1. Reaffirm the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, stability, maritime safety and security, freedom of navigation and overflight in the region, and other lawful uses of the seas, including unimpeded lawful maritime commerce and to promote peaceful resolutions of disputes, in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS, and the relevant standards and recommended practices by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). In this regard, we support the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of the Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in its entirety and look forward to the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) that is in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS;

    2. Build on ongoing collaboration in defense and security within the framework of ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Plus, including the first ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) in 2023 and co-chairmanship of the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Group on Counter-Terrorism (2024-2027), as well as noting the two initiatives announced at the ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting in 2022;

    3. Strengthen cooperation in maritime security, counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, military medicine, transnational crime, defence industry, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, peacekeeping and demining operations and confidence building measures. This will be achieved through the exchange of visits, joint military exercise, maritime exercise, port calls by naval ships and defence scholarships;

    4. Advance the implementation of ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Maritime Cooperation and continue to cooperate on areas such as maritime security, blue economy, sustainable fisheries, marine environmental protection, marine biodiversity, and climate change issues, among others;

    5. Promote and work towards the strengthening of multilateralism through the UN and the multilateral processes to address global concerns, pursue shared goals and complementary initiatives, and promote sustainable development for the benefit of our peoples;

    6. Build on the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Cooperation on the AOIP for Peace, Stability, and Prosperity in the Region by advancing cooperation between the AOIP and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI);

    7. Expedite the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to make it more effective, user-friendly, simple, and trade-facilitative for businesses and relevant to the current global trading practices and promote mutually beneficial arrangements and strengthen economic cooperation between ASEAN and India;

    8. Promote diverse, secure, transparent and resilient supply chains while exchanging information on identifying and proactively addressing potential risks in supply chains in areas of mutual interest to promote sustainable development;

    9. Cooperate on emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain technology, Internet of Things (IoT), Robotics, Quantum Computing, 6-G technology, building and strengthening of startups ecosystem with special emphasis on digital connectivity and financial technology;

    10. Welcome the launch of the ASEAN-India Fund for Digital Future to support joint activities;

    11. Cooperate to unlock the full potential of safe, secure, responsible, trustworthy AI by promoting international cooperation and further discussions on international governance for AI, considering that the rapid progress of AI has the potential for prosperity and expansion of the global digital economy. We should endeavor to leverage AI for public good by solving challenges in a responsible, inclusive and human-centric manner while protecting people’s rights and safety;

    12. Note the proposal to celebrate the year 2025 as the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism to further strengthen people-to-people ties while recognising the crucial role of tourism in promoting sustainable socioeconomic development and economic prosperity, and as one of the vehicles for achieving the SDGs. In this endeavour, we support the implementation of the ASEAN-India Tourism Cooperation Work Plan 2023-2027, and to explore deeper cooperation to support joint programs for tourism education, training and research to build capacity and ensure a high-quality tourism industry. We also encourage the expansion of business networks among travel stakeholders, the practice of sustainable and responsible tourism, as well as the exchange of tourism trends and information. In addition, we support the enhancement of crisis communications, promotion of tourism investment opportunities, as well as development and joint promotion of niche markets, cruise tourism and tourism standards;

    13. Strengthen health systems by enhancing collaboration on public health including, inter alia, in the areas of research and development (R&D), public health emergency preparedness, training of healthcare professionals, medical technology, pharmaceuticals, vaccine security and self-reliance, vaccine development and production, as well as general and traditional medicine;

    14. Enhance cooperation in the field of environment, including biodiversity and climate change as well as explore cooperation in the field of energy security, including cooperation on clean, renewable, and low-carbon energy in line with the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation 2021-2025 and India’s renewable energy priorities, as well as other national models and priorities such as bio-circular-green development;

    15. Promote disaster and climate resilience of infrastructure systems through knowledge sharing and best practices, capacity building and technical assistance, which can be pursued such as through the framework of Coalition of Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) as well as the proposed Memorandum of Intent (MOI) between ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Center) and National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) of India;

    16. Enhance connectivity between ASEAN and India in line with the “Connecting the Connectivities” approach, by exploring synergies between the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 and its successor document, the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan (ACSP) and India’s connectivity initiatives in the region under India’s Act East Policy and Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) vision to ensure seamless connectivity in the Indo-Pacific by collaborating for quality, sustainable and resilient infrastructure and enhancing cooperation in transport in land, air, and maritime domains including through the early completion and operationalisation of the India-Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) Trilateral Highway while looking forward to its eastward extension to Lao PDR, Cambodia and Viet Nam;

    17. Stressing the importance of strengthening multilateralism and comprehensive reform of the multilateral global governance architecture, including the United Nations and international financial architecture, international financial institutions, and multilateral development banks, to make them fit for purpose, democratic, equitable, representative and responsive to the current global realities and the needs and aspirations of the Global South;

    18. Call for an inclusive and balanced international agenda, that responds to the concerns and priorities of the Global South, recognising that the principle of ‘Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities’ (CBDR-RC) within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) applies to all relevant global challenges;

    19. Explore potential synergies with sub-regional frameworks, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT), Singapore-Johor-Riau (SIJORI) Growth Triangle, Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), and Mekong sub-regional cooperation frameworks, including Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) and Ayeyawady Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS), and to support ASEAN and India’s efforts in promoting equitable development by aligning sub-regional growth with the comprehensive, mutual growth and development of ASEAN and India;

    20. Continue to work together on regional and global issues of common concern while endeavouring to strengthen our partnership through the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

    ***

    MJPS/SR/SKS

    (Release ID: 2063888) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Public health warning: viral gastroenteritis on the rise

    Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

    ​NSW Health is encouraging the community to stay on alert for symptoms of gastroenteritis, with testing and hospital data showing a significant rise in cases in recent weeks across the state.
    The increase is being driven by two pathogens which commonly cause vomiting and diarrhoea, rotavirus and norovirus. Rotavirus can be particularly severe in young children. Norovirus is common cause of outbreaks are common in residential aged care facilities, schools and child care centres.
    The latest testing data shows rotavirus notifications are at some of their highest levels in recent years.
    Director of NSW Health’s One Health branch Keira Glasgow said it’s important to reduce the spread of gastro before schools return next week.
    “Last week, there were more than 2,700 presentations to NSW emergency departments with symptoms of gastroenteritis. Presentations were particularly high in children who are under five years of age,” Ms Glasgow said.
    “The message to the community is clear – simple measures can help stop the spread of gastro. Maintaining good hand hygiene and keeping children at home when they are unwell will give us a good chance to slow the spread.”
    Viruses are spread from the vomit or stool (faeces) of an infected person. This can occur through close contact with unwashed hands, touching contaminated surfaces, when cleaning up body fluids, sharing of contaminated objects, consuming contaminated food or drink, and occasionally inhaling airborne particles when people vomit.
    Viral gastroenteritis symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, headache and muscle aches. They can take up to three days to develop and usually last between one or two days, and sometimes longer.
    Advice for parents and caregivers includes:

    Immunisation to prevent rotavirus infection is recommended and part of the childhood immunisation schedule. Immunisation is free for children under six months of age. The vaccine is given as two oral doses, at six weeks and four months of age, with completion of the course by 24 weeks of age.
    The main treatment for viral gastroenteritis is to rest and drink plenty of fluids. Most people recover without complications but more urgent care may need to be sought for infants, people with suppressed immune systems, and the elderly, who may experience more serious illness.
    View more information on how to prevent the spread of gastroenteritis.​

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: VDEC Pre-clinical team helps to develop organ-on-a-chip to protect human health

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists at VDEC use ‘organ-on-a-chip’ models to study infections and immune responses, aiming to improve vaccine testing and reduce reliance on animal research.

    Executive summary

    Scientists are constantly trying to improve the use and efficiency of models in research. As such, they are exploring a move away from traditional tissue or whole-body models. This move is proving to be a successful route to protecting human health against a variety of pathogens.

    Target

    The Pre-clinical team at UKHSA’s Vaccine Development and Evaluation Centre (VDEC) has developed an expanding capability in the use of microphysiological systems (MPS), an example of this are the ‘organ-on-a-chip’ models.

    Essentially, we can grow a range of different cell types in 3D structures that represent tissues and mimic human organs in miniature chambers supplied with very small volumes of growth medium (a substitute for human blood). Although we started out simply by infecting these systems with various strains of pathogens, we are now developing the ability to introduce parts of the human immune system as well so that we can model and understand how our bodies fight infectious disease and how we can enhance or supplement that protection.

    Aims

    Understanding the correlates of protection for new and emerging coronaviruses is at the forefront of science strategy around the world. The pandemic potential of coronaviruses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) has been proven in recent years. Understanding how they evolve, and impact humans is of utmost importance. Once we can understand how this works, we are then able to (or we then have another method to) test the efficacy of vaccines against evolving variants.

    One model that highlights the importance of developing such systems is the adaptation of human alveolus MPS. The SARS-CoV-2 infection model described here (1) replicates the breathing-like stretch observed in lung epithelial cells and other biochemical characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 infection, allowing this to be used as a successful model of infection in live human tissue.

    Options

    An additional future benefit of this cutting-edge research is that it should help to reduce our reliance on animal research. Although that is a long-term view, it may also be possible that by increasing the complexity of the MPS models and analytical tools we use to interrogate them, we may one day be able to replace some aspects of animal research in medical research.

    Outcome

    Working alongside the teams that are developing and testing the MPS technology are teams using established challenge models, allowing direct comparison of human tissue replicating a whole organ system. The team at VDEC currently have 2 human lung-on-chip models. The first, a human bronchial airway and the second, human alveolus. Both models have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 in order to investigate the effect of this virus against various lung tissue types. A ‘non-breathing’ lung-on-chip alveolus model has also successfully been infected with SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV, allowing characterisation of the differences between severe coronavirus infections.

    Future work

    Leading on from the success of the SARS-CoV-2 MPS, further work to develop a MPS model that can rival the current ‘gold standard’ MERS model is currently being carried out by the team at VDEC. This could provide clear evidence that MPS models are equally as effective as current models, refining the process of challenge studies across the board. We are working to extend the range of tissue types available for testing, for example working with brain and gut (2), as well as lung tissue to investigate movement of virus from organ to organ or to study difficult-to-study syndromes like long COVID or premature ageing.

    The team is also pivoting transcriptomics, whole genome sequencing as well as sophisticated histopathological techniques to analyse these tiny samples. This means we will be able to detect small changes in the biochemistry, microbiology, and immunology of infected human cells very early on in the infection process to help us test new ways to protect humans. We have begun countermeasure testing antiviral drugs but intend to include vaccines testing as well using MPS technology, with a view to provide an alternate approach to certain aspects of human clinical trials. MPS-based technologies could allow detection of uniquely human issues with vaccine or therapeutic candidates ahead of human clinical trials, which could add an early ‘go’ or ‘no-go’ step as well as saving money downstream.

    The use of MPS technology also allows our scientists to study infections from a new standpoint, as various environmental or immunological elements can be added or removed to investigate their impact. An example of this is that lung tissue can be infected with SARS-CoV-2 in the presence of individual immune cell populations to help us reveal and understand the significance of their roles in disease and recovery.

    At VDEC we are at the forefront of this exciting technology, pushing its potential to the limits of human disease research and therapeutics for the benefit of public health.

    Download this case study as a PDF

    References

    1. Šuligoj, Tanja and Coombes, Naomi S and Booth, Catherine and Savva, George M and Bewley, Kevin R and Funnell, Simon GP and Juge, Nathalie. ‘Modelling SARS-CoV-2 infection in a human alveolus microphysiological system’. Access Microbiology (2024). 6:9.

    2. Jones EJ, Skinner BM, Parker A, Baldwin LR, Greenman J, Carding SR and Funnell SGP. ‘An in vitro multi-organ microphysiological system (MPS) to investigate the gut-to-brain translocation of neurotoxins’. Biomicrofluidics (2024). Sep 13;18(5):054105. doi: 10.1063/5.0200459. PMID: 39280192; PMCID: PMC11401645.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: GESDA Summit 2024: Democratizing Science Literacy – High-Level Political Segment

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    Bern, 11.10.2024 – Address by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) – Check against delivery

    Excellencies

    Ladies and Gentlemen

    Dear Guests

    Last year, I ended my speech with the words of Nobel laureate Hermann Hesse: “To achieve the possible, we must attempt the impossible – again and again.”

    And that’s exactly what we do, year after year. The rapid technological advances we’re witnessing are expanding the boundaries of civilization in ways we once considered impossible.

    This is where GESDA plays its role: it opens new frontiers, enabling us to not only imagine but also anticipate the future and prepare for the changes ahead with tangible, inclusive solutions.

    Things are moving fast, and so is GESDA.

    Following last year’s launch of the Open Quantum Institute, GESDA now presents the Anticipation Gateway Initiative, its second pioneering project, which is now entering a three-year prototyping phase.

    I want to congratulate the entire GESDA team and its supporters for their unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries for multilateralism and humanity.

    New technologies are reshaping relationships —between people, organisations, and our environment. While this is not new, the pace of progress now far exceeds human evolution, creating deeper divides in our societies.

    Ladies and gentlemen

    What’s on GESDA’s radar? What’s cooking in the labs? Let me highlight two rapidly advancing fields: synthetic biology and neuroscience.

    1) Synthetic biology: This field merges biology and engineering, allowing us to create new living organisms or modify existing ones to perform novel tasks—potentially enabling us to program living cells like computers in the future.

    Over the next five years, integrating synthetic biology with AI will speed up the development of new biological agents:

    • On the upside, it could lead to the rapid development of vaccines and treatments, helping us live healthier, longer lives.
    • On the downside, some agents could be misused as biological weapons.

    2) Neurotechnology: This field involves technologies that interact with the nervous system to monitor or influence brain activity. GESDA foresees that next-gen implants will stimulate multiple brain regions, with AI and brain-computer interfaces becoming a reality soon.

    ·     The bright side: Neurotechnology could help paraplegics walk again.

    ·     The dark side: It might also be used to enhance soldiers’ abilities, improving precision, resilience, and reducing sleep needs—raising ethical concerns we must address.

    Dear guests

    The rapid acceleration of science will deeply impact every aspect of our lives, including international peace and security. Given Switzerland’s history of innovation and mediation, we believe it’s crucial to focus on preventing and managing conflicts that may arise from emerging technologies.

    As science advances, diplomacy must keep pace.

    In this spirit, during our presidency of the UN Security Council this October, Switzerland will propose a presidential statement to highlight the importance of monitoring scientific advances and their effects on global peace and security.

    While the UNSC currently addresses pressing issues such as the Middle East, Ukraine, Yemen, and Sudan, we must also view global dynamics through the lens of science. Leaders need to prepare for future science-driven challenges, as they will increasingly face conflicts fuelled by technology.

    This will be my message as President of the Security Council on 21 October in New York. Specifically, this will mean discussing the forms of warfare we wish to avoid, establishing rules, and setting clear limits.

    Thanks to GESDA’s Anticipation Gateway Initiative, we can begin shaping this vision with three key instruments:

    1. The training framework for anticipatory leadership prepares decision-makers for a rapidly evolving world, helping them understand breakthrough technologies.

    2. The public portal raises global awareness on these issues (this will also feature at the Swiss Pavilion at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Kansai).

    3. The anticipation observatory provides a platform for everyone to engage in these vital conversations.

    Ladies and gentlemen

    I began with a Nobel laureate, so I’ll close with another. Marie Curie once said: “In life, nothing is to be feared, everything is to be understood. It is time to understand more, so that we may fear less.“

    As we conclude this month’s Swiss presidency of the UNSC, my hope is that we leave New York with a sense of accomplishment—having made progress in ensuring the Council remains committed to monitoring scientific developments and their impact on global peace and security.

    In UN terms, the Council must stay engaged and encourage others to continue this crucial discussion. The more we understand, the less we will fear.

    Now, turning ‘back to the present’, I look forward to hearing the perspectives and insights from my ministerial colleagues.

    Thank you.

    Address for enquiries

    FDFA Communication
    Federal Palace West Wing
    CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
    Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
    E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
    Twitter: @SwissMFA

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
    https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students and staff will be vaccinated against influenza at the State University of Management

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On October 16, 2024, in order to prevent the occurrence and spread of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza among employees and students during the 2024/2025 epidemic season, work was organized at the State University of Management to vaccinate students and employees against influenza.

    Flu vaccination is carried out in the medical office (hostel #2, 1st floor). Starts at 12:00.

    Please bring your compulsory medical insurance policy with you.

    Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 10/11/2024

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Students and staff will be vaccinated against influenza at the State University of Management

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden’s development assistance for global health and SRHR makes a difference and saves lives

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Sweden’s development assistance for global health and SRHR makes a difference and saves lives – Government.se

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    Press release from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    Sweden is an active force for child and maternal care, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and other health care around the world. Support to health care in Ukraine, access to SRHR, and fundamental health and vaccination campaigns are important focus areas. Cooperation with civil society is also being strengthened. The annual development assistance for health report, published today, 11 October, outlines all of this and much more.

    “Investments in global health lead to a safer and healthier world, in which more people are given the conditions to live and shape their own prosperity. Sweden’s broad efforts for global health and SRHR are often critical – not least operations to get vaccines and medicines to those most in need, but also our efforts to strengthen health and medical care in low- and middle-income countries,” says Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa.

    Last year, Sweden’s development assistance for health totalled approximately SEK 5.7 billion. The annual development assistance for health report outlines Sweden’s overall support to global health and SRHR. It has been published every year since 2012 and is based on statistics from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). 

    In 2023, bilateral health assistance to Ukraine increased, helping to ensure access to basic and life-saving care – an area that has been hard-hit following Russia’s full-scale invasion. The Government’s drive to support civil society organisations has contributed to preventive measures in low- and middle-income countries, including against sexual and gender-based violence. 

    Press contact

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: GESDA Summit 2024: Democratizing Science Literacy – High-Level Political Segment (EN)

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Council in German

    Bern, 11.10.2024 – Rede von Bundesrat Ignazio Cassis, Vorsteher des Eidgenössischen Departements für auswärtige Angelegenheiten (EDA) – Es gilt das gesprochene Wort

    Excellencies

    Ladies and Gentlemen

    Dear Guests

    Last year, I ended my speech with the words of Nobel laureate Hermann Hesse: “To achieve the possible, we must attempt the impossible – again and again.”

    And that’s exactly what we do, year after year. The rapid technological advances we’re witnessing are expanding the boundaries of civilization in ways we once considered impossible.

    This is where GESDA plays its role: it opens new frontiers, enabling us to not only imagine but also anticipate the future and prepare for the changes ahead with tangible, inclusive solutions.

    Things are moving fast, and so is GESDA.

    Following last year’s launch of the Open Quantum Institute, GESDA now presents the Anticipation Gateway Initiative, its second pioneering project, which is now entering a three-year prototyping phase.

    I want to congratulate the entire GESDA team and its supporters for their unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries for multilateralism and humanity.

    New technologies are reshaping relationships —between people, organisations, and our environment. While this is not new, the pace of progress now far exceeds human evolution, creating deeper divides in our societies.

    Ladies and gentlemen

    What’s on GESDA’s radar? What’s cooking in the labs? Let me highlight two rapidly advancing fields: synthetic biology and neuroscience.

    1) Synthetic biology: This field merges biology and engineering, allowing us to create new living organisms or modify existing ones to perform novel tasks—potentially enabling us to program living cells like computers in the future.

    Over the next five years, integrating synthetic biology with AI will speed up the development of new biological agents:

    • On the upside, it could lead to the rapid development of vaccines and treatments, helping us live healthier, longer lives.
    • On the downside, some agents could be misused as biological weapons.

    2) Neurotechnology: This field involves technologies that interact with the nervous system to monitor or influence brain activity. GESDA foresees that next-gen implants will stimulate multiple brain regions, with AI and brain-computer interfaces becoming a reality soon.

    ·     The bright side: Neurotechnology could help paraplegics walk again.

    ·     The dark side: It might also be used to enhance soldiers’ abilities, improving precision, resilience, and reducing sleep needs—raising ethical concerns we must address.

    Dear guests

    The rapid acceleration of science will deeply impact every aspect of our lives, including international peace and security. Given Switzerland’s history of innovation and mediation, we believe it’s crucial to focus on preventing and managing conflicts that may arise from emerging technologies.

    As science advances, diplomacy must keep pace.

    In this spirit, during our presidency of the UN Security Council this October, Switzerland will propose a presidential statement to highlight the importance of monitoring scientific advances and their effects on global peace and security.

    While the UNSC currently addresses pressing issues such as the Middle East, Ukraine, Yemen, and Sudan, we must also view global dynamics through the lens of science. Leaders need to prepare for future science-driven challenges, as they will increasingly face conflicts fuelled by technology.

    This will be my message as President of the Security Council on 21 October in New York. Specifically, this will mean discussing the forms of warfare we wish to avoid, establishing rules, and setting clear limits.

    Thanks to GESDA’s Anticipation Gateway Initiative, we can begin shaping this vision with three key instruments:

    1. The training framework for anticipatory leadership prepares decision-makers for a rapidly evolving world, helping them understand breakthrough technologies.

    2. The public portal raises global awareness on these issues (this will also feature at the Swiss Pavilion at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Kansai).

    3. The anticipation observatory provides a platform for everyone to engage in these vital conversations.

    Ladies and gentlemen

    I began with a Nobel laureate, so I’ll close with another. Marie Curie once said: “In life, nothing is to be feared, everything is to be understood. It is time to understand more, so that we may fear less.“

    As we conclude this month’s Swiss presidency of the UNSC, my hope is that we leave New York with a sense of accomplishment—having made progress in ensuring the Council remains committed to monitoring scientific developments and their impact on global peace and security.

    In UN terms, the Council must stay engaged and encourage others to continue this crucial discussion. The more we understand, the less we will fear.

    Now, turning ‘back to the present’, I look forward to hearing the perspectives and insights from my ministerial colleagues.

    Thank you.

    Adresse für Rückfragen

    Kommunikation EDA
    Bundeshaus West
    CH-3003 Bern
    Tel. Medienstelle: +41 58 460 55 55
    E-Mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
    Twitter: @EDA_DFAE

    Herausgeber

    Eidgenössisches Departement für auswärtige Angelegenheiten
    https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/de/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden’s development assistance for health 2023

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Sweden’s development assistance for health 2023 – Government.se

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    Report from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    In 2023,Sweden’s development assistance for health totalled approximately SEK 5.7 billion. Support to health care in Ukraine, access to SRHR, and fundamental health and vaccination campaigns are important focus areas.

    Download:

    Sweden’s development assistance for health amounted to approximately
    SEK 5.7 billion in 2023, accounting for 10.4 per cent of Sweden’s total
    development assistance, excluding deductions for asylum costs. Approximately SEK 3.4 billion (equivalent to 61 per cent) of this was channelled via the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The remaining funds, just over SEK 2.2 billion (corresponding to 39 per cent), were channelled via Sida’s bilateral, regional and global strategies.

    The total amount of development assistance for health has varied over the years. In 2020–2021, it was record high in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Percentage-wise, total development assistance for health in 2023 decreased slightly compared to pre-pandemic levels. During the period 2019–2023, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs managed a larger financial share of Sweden’s development assistance for health than Sida.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Regulatory Authority of India meets WHO international standards for vaccine regulations

    Source: Government of India (2)

    National Regulatory Authority of India meets WHO international standards for vaccine regulations

    India’s vaccine regulatory system was benchmarked in the year 2017 against Global benchmarking tool version V which is now revised to GBT VI with raised bars and stringency in benchmarking criteria

    Posted On: 11 OCT 2024 11:55AM by PIB Delhi

    The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), along with the National Regulatory Authority of India (NRA) and affiliated institutions, has been found to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) published indicators for a functional vaccine regulatory system. This conclusion was reached by a team of international experts from various countries, led by WHO (HQ) in Geneva, following a comprehensive and in-depth scientific review of India’s vaccine regulatory system conducted from September 16 to 20, 2024.

    Safety, efficacy, and quality are three basic parameters of assessment of vaccines. WHO has established global standards and benchmarks for assurance of vaccine quality through the development of tools and guidelines, benchmarking of the NRA and prequalification programme of vaccines.

    The WHO NRA re-benchmarking was aimed to assess and document the status of the India regulatory system in the area of vaccine regulation, re-benchmark the status of the India vaccine regulatory system against the WHO NRA Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT) and measuring the maturity of the system. India has been declared ‘functional’ against all the core regulatory functions of the WHO Global Benchmarking Tool Version VI. India’s vaccine regulatory system was benchmarked in the year 2017 against Global benchmarking tool (GBT) version V which is now revised to GBT VI with raised bars and stringency in benchmarking criteria.

    India retains Maturity Level 3 with highest marks in several functions.

    Speaking about this landmark achievement, Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary, stated, “The Central Drugs Standards Control Organization, in collaboration with WHO, has made exemplary efforts towards this achievement. India is one of the main players in the pharmaceutical industry worldwide and is known for its affordable vaccines and generic medicines.”

    She also congratulated all the teams for their hard work in achieving this milestone for the country and reemphasized the strength of the Indian regulatory system and its commitment to supplying quality products worldwide to enhance health outcomes.

    Dr Roderico H. Ofrin, WHO Representative to India noted, “The WHO plays a pivotal role in supporting countries in strengthening their regulatory systems, and promoting equitable access to quality, safe, efficacious, and affordable medical products and health products. This is indeed a great achievement, and we would like to congratulate the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and its affiliated institutions,” he added.

    Dr Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, Drugs Controller General (India), Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, MoHFW highlighted that “India, as a large vaccine producing country, is currently supplying several vaccines to the UN agencies (UNICEF, WHO and PAHO)”. “National Regulatory Authority of India meets the standards of the WHO NRA indicators (WHO Global benchmarking Tool) on functional regulatory system for vaccines” he added.

    In addition to the general framework for the system, the following regulatory functions were evaluated: General Overview of the National Regulatory System (RS), Registration and Marketing Authorization (MA), Vigilance (VL), Market Surveillance and Control (MSC), Licensing Establishments (LI), Regulatory Inspections (RI), Laboratory Testing (LT), Clinical Trials Oversight (CT) and NRA Lot Release (LR).

    Welcoming the positive outcome of international benchmarking, Dr Alireza Khadem, WHO Team Leader for the NRA Re-benchmarking, said, “It will go a long way in re-affirming India’s role in global health, including the strength of its pharmaceutical sector and drug regulatory capacity. WHO had scaled up its technical support to the India’s national regulatory authority over the past several years. This success is a culmination of intensive effort by the Health Ministry, including CDSCO, in collaboration with WHO, to implement a roadmap to strengthen capacity for regulation of vaccines,”.

    India is a major vaccine producer that has 36 major vaccine manufacturing facilities. These vaccines are used for the national and international market (150 countries), which makes India a major vaccine supplier across the globe.

    The WHO Prequalification Programme (PQP) is aimed at facilitating access to vaccines that meet unified standards of quality, safety and efficacy as well as programme needs. It is also prerequisite for manufacturers to supply to countries through United Nations procuring agencies. A functional NRA is a criterion for WHO prequalification of vaccines.

    As for all NRA benchmarking, sustainability of the gains made in regulatory capacity is critical. For this purpose, the team which has just completed the assessment in India has drawn up a detailed Institutional Development Plan. The plan will outline additional activities to be undertaken to further strengthen regulatory capacity in India in the coming years.

    World Health Organization carried out assessment of the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) of India comprising the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), State Drug Regulatory Authorities, Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli; Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) structures at the Central and States levels, Immunization Division, Pharmacovigilance Programme of India, and other relevant institutions engaged in the regulation, control and testing of vaccines.

    ***

    MV

    HFW/ NRA Meets WHO Standards /11th October 2024/1

    (Release ID: 2064070) Visitor Counter : 63

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Indian woman experiences day as British High Commissioner

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    19-year-old Nidhi Gautam from Karnataka became the British High Commissioner to India for a day.

    Nidhi Gautam, British High Commissioner for the Day with Lindy Cameron, Deputy High Commissioner for the Day (on other days, British High Commissioner to India)

    Nineteen-year-old Nidhi Gautam from Karnataka became the British High Commissioner to India for one full day, getting a unique behind-the-scenes look at the life of a diplomat and seeing the UK-India partnership in action. 

    The British High Commission in New Delhi has organised the ‘High Commissioner for a Day’ competition every year since 2017, to celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child (11 October).

    The UK is committed to engaging with girls and shifting our power to them as change makers and future leaders. Protecting and promoting freedoms for women and girls in the UK and around the world is the right and smart thing to do; it is integral to creating resilient economies and strong, free societies.

    This year’s winning entry was chosen from a pool of more than 140 applications from talented young women around the country. Nidhi is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in History and Geography from Miranda House in Delhi. She is passionate about sketching, Wordle, cultural diplomacy and foreign policy.

    Nidhi Gautam, British High Commissioner for the Day, said:

    Being the British High Commissioner for a day was a transformative experience that left an indelible mark on me. I was fortunate to explore remarkable advancements, from assistive technologies to enlightening discussions on solar energy to ground-breaking developments in biotechnology and ‘femtech’. Each interaction underscored the idea that technology serves a greater purpose by creating tangible social benefits.

    Lindy’s warm encouragement and insightful thoughts throughout the day inspired me profoundly, reminding me of the importance of dedication and passion in serving one’s country. The day’s strong representation of women in leadership roles further motivated me, reaffirming my commitment to championing gender equality. Ultimately, this experience taught me that true progress is not just about advancement but about elevating lives along the way.

    Lindy Cameron, Deputy High Commissioner for the Day (on other days, British High Commissioner to India), said:

    It was fantastic to learn from Nidhi for the day. Our conversations, from the UK-India Technology Security Initiative to the role of young women in tackling global challenges, were inspiring. The High Commissioner for a Day competition embodies the idea that the world will be a better place when everyone has equal opportunities. Empowering women and girls in the UK and around the world is a priority for us and an integral part of our partnership with India on everything from technology to climate resilience.

    As the UK’s top diplomat in India, Nidhi got to experience an exciting range of activities over the course of a fully packed day. She started her day as High Commissioner getting briefed over breakfast on details of the UK-India bilateral relationship, the Technology Security Initiative announced in July, by her senior leadership team. She visited the National Centre for Assistive Health Technologies at Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, where she had an immersive experience in new technologies that are helping differently abled people live their lives to the fullest. She also visited the National Institute of Immunology to see how technology is aiding the development of vaccines in India, in addition a range of meetings with government and industry partners over the course of the day.

    Further information

    • see free-to-use images of Nidhi’s day as High Commissioner

    • Nidhi Gautam was ‘High Commissioner for a Day’ on 1 October. Applicants for this year’s competition were invited to submit a 1-minute video answering the question: ‘How can the UK and India collaborate on technology to benefit future generations?’ See Nidhi’s winning entry

    • the ‘High Commissioner for a Day’ competition, organised annually since 2017, celebrates the International Day of the Girl Child (11 October). The competition is an opportunity to provide a platform to young women to raise awareness about girls’ rights and highlight the importance of women in leadership roles

    • the International Day of the Girl is also being celebrated at the UK’s diplomatic missions in Bengaluru, Chennai and Mumbai where one young woman will have the opportunity to be the ‘British Deputy High Commissioner for a Day’

    Media

    For media queries, please contact:

    David Russell, Head of Communications
    Press and Communications, British High Commission,
    Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021. Tel: 24192100

    Media queries: BHCMediaDelhi@fco.gov.uk

    Follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, Flickr, Youtube and LinkedIn

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: MSF urges for protection of civilians and medical staff amid Israeli bombardment in Lebanon

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    • Healthcare facilities are being forced to close in areas affected by airstrikes.
    • Our teams are working to ensure the continuation of care in our facilities, while also suspending some activities in heavily affected areas.
    • All warring parties must spare civilians, medical facilities, and medical personnel.

    Beirut – As Israeli attacks intensify in Lebanon, healthcare facilities in areas most affected by airstrikes are being forced to close. This is leading to devastating consequences for civilians and their access to healthcare.

    Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) teams are working tirelessly to ensure the continuation of care in our existing facilities, while also scaling up our activities to address the needs emerging from the ongoing conflict. However, due to the intense Israeli airstrikes, we were forced to suspend some activities in highly affected areas. We continue to adapt our activities to provide people with much needed healthcare.

    MSF urges all warring parties to spare civilians, medical facilities, and medical personnel in Lebanon to ensure that vital healthcare services can adequately address people’s urgent medical needs.

    “Given the intensity of the violence, road damage, and the lack of guaranteed safety, we are currently unable to reach all affected areas in Lebanon despite the increasing medical and humanitarian needs,” says François Zamparini, emergency coordinator for MSF in Lebanon.

    Distribution of essential item kits in downtown Beirut, Aazarieh building shelter. October 2, 2024.
    Maryam Srour/MSF

    Last week, MSF was forced to completely close its clinic in the Palestinian camp of Burj el Barajneh in the southern suburbs of Beirut. We also had to temporarily stop our activities in Baalbek-Hermel, northeast Lebanon. These are both areas heavily affected by the strikes.

    “We partially reopened our clinic in Hermel this week to ensure that patients receive their medications, providing them with a two-to-three-month stock of essential drugs, depending on the severity of their condition and medical risks,” adds Zamparini.

    Patients in these areas are already vulnerable, struggling to access the healthcare they desperately need. The closure of medical facilities has left them, specifically people living with chronic diseases, without the essential services they need.

    MSF medical teams also remain unable to operate properly in southern Lebanon due to a lack of safety guarantees for our medical personnel.

    “One of the hospitals we planned to support and had donated medications and trauma kits to, in Nabatiyeh, only a few kilometres away from the active frontlines, was hit on 5 October,” explains Zamparini.

    An MSF mobile medical team, which had been actively supporting general healthcare centres in Nabatiyeh and other areas closer to the Lebanese border since November 2023, has been forced to stop its activities. The team, which was once able to reach areas near the border, can no longer do so and is currently limited to operating only as far as Saida, which is about 50 kilometres north of the southern border, where needs are highest.

    In the last two weeks, Israeli strikes have claimed the lives of at least fifty paramedics. This brings the total number of healthcare workers killed since October last year to over a hundred, as reported by the Lebanese Ministry of Public Healthhttps://apnews.com/article/lebanon-israel-medics-hezbollah-hospitals-6c7f75c921c9deec0fa5c160ce639664#:~:text=The%20health%20ministry%20on%20Thursday,wounded%20in%20the%20intense%20fighting.. The heavy Israeli bombardments have also severely disrupted access to medical care across Lebanon. As of 1 October 2024, six hospitals and 40 general healthcare centres have closed their doors as the intensity of the fighting made it impossible to work without safety guarantees, according to OCHA.https://www.unocha.org/news/todays-top-news-lebanon-occupied-palestinian-territory-and-israel-syria-haiti-ukraine-eastern

    The armed conflict is worsening an ongoing humanitarian crisis, aggravating existing needs. Lebanon’s healthcare system was already overburdened by the country’s economic crisis, which has caused the emigration of many medical staff and strained the capacity and resources of medical facilities. Local health centres, already at capacity, are now facing increasing pressure as they try to meet the growing medical needs of displaced people.

    The scale of displacement in Lebanon significantly surpasses the country’s ability to provide adequate shelter, with over a million people displaced according to UNHCRhttps://www.unhcr.org/news/press-releases/unhcr-s-grandi-appeals-urgent-humanitarian-support-and-end-bloodshed-lebanon. The majority of shelters people are seeking safety in are in dire conditions. To respond, MSF deployed 12 mobile medical teams across various regions of the country, including Beirut, Mount Lebanon, Saida, Tripoli, Bekaa, and Akkar. These teams are providing psychological first aid, general medical consultations, and mental health support, in addition to donating mattresses, hygiene kits, hot meals, and clean water. Nevertheless, people’s needs are far greater than what we are able to cover.

    “We must ensure the continuation of care for those in need,” emphasises Zamparini. “We urge all parties to respect international humanitarian law. Civilians and civilian infrastructure, medical facilities and medical personnel must not be targeted. Their safety must be guaranteed.”

    MSF’s response to the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon:

    In response to the ongoing escalation of conflict and intense Israeli bombing in Lebanon, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has deployed 12 mobile medical teams across various regions of the country, including Beirut, Mount Lebanon, Saida, Tripoli, Bekaa, and Akkar. These teams are providing psychological first aid, general medical consultations, medication, and mental health support. MSF is also distributing essential items such as blankets, mattresses, and hygiene kits, as well as supplying water by trucks to schools and shelters where displaced people have gathered. Additionally, we are offering hot meals and drinking water to hundreds of displaced families. MSF has also donated fuel and trauma kits to several hospitals, prepositioned 10 tons of medical supplies and trained over 100 healthcare workers in trauma care and mass casualty management across the country.

    About MSF in Lebanon:

    MSF is an independent international medical humanitarian organisation that provides aid and free healthcare to people in need, without discrimination. MSF first began to work in Lebanon in 1976, and its teams have worked in the country without interruption since 2008.

    In 2023, MSF teams worked in six locations across Lebanon, providing 13,609 free medical consultations for vulnerable communities, including Lebanese citizens, refugees, and migrant workers. MSF’s services include mental healthcare, sexual and reproductive healthcare, paediatric care, vaccinations, and treatment for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First wave of COVID-19 increased risk of heart attack, stroke up to three years later

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    News Release

    Thursday, October 10, 2024

    NIH-funded study focused on original virus strain, unvaccinated participants during pandemic.

    Infection from COVID-19 appeared to significantly increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death for up to three years among unvaccinated people early in the pandemic when the original SARS-CoV-2 virus strain emerged, according to a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-supported study. The findings, among people with or without heart disease, confirm previous research showing an associated higher risk of cardiovascular events after a COVID-19 infection but are the first to suggest the heightened risk might last up to three years following initial infection, at least among people infected in the first wave of the pandemic.

    Compared to people with no COVID-19 history, the study found those who developed COVID-19 early in the pandemic had double the risk for cardiovascular events, while those with severe cases had nearly four times the risk. The findings were published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology.

    “This study sheds new light on the potential long-term cardiovascular effects of COVID-19, a still-looming public health threat,” said David Goff, M.D., Ph.D., director for the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences at NIH’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), which largely funded the study. “These results, especially if confirmed by longer term follow-up, support efforts to identify effective heart disease prevention strategies for patients who’ve had severe COVID-19. But more studies are needed to demonstrate effectiveness.”

    The study is also the first to show that increased risk of heart attack and stroke in patients with severe COVID-19 may have a genetic component involving blood type. Researchers found that hospitalization for COVID-19 more than doubled the risk of heart attack or stroke among patients with A, B, or AB blood types, but not in patients with O types, which seemed to be associated with a lower risk of severe COVID-19.

    Scientists studied data from 10,000 people enrolled in the UK Biobank, a large biomedical database of European patients. Patients were ages 40 to 69 at the time of enrollment and included 8,000 who had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and 2,000 who were hospitalized with severe COVID-19 between Feb. 1, 2020, and Dec. 31, 2020. None of the patients had been vaccinated, as vaccines were not available during that period.

    The researchers compared the two COVID-19 subgroups to a group of nearly 218,000 people who did not have the condition. They then tracked the patients from the time of their COVID-19 diagnosis until the development of either heart attack, stroke, or death, up to nearly three years.

    Accounting for patients who had pre-existing heart disease – about 11% in both groups – the researchers found that the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death was twice as high among all the COVID-19 patients and four times as high among those who had severe cases that required hospitalization, compared to those who had never been infected. The data further show that, within each of the three follow-up years, the risk of having a major cardiovascular event was still significantly elevated compared to the controls – in some cases, the researchers said, almost as high or even higher than having a known cardiovascular risk factor, such as Type 2 diabetes.

    “Given that more than 1 billion people worldwide have already experienced COVID-19 infection, the implications for global heart health are significant,” said study leader Hooman Allayee, Ph.D., a professor of population and public health sciences at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine in Los Angeles. “The question now is whether or not severe COVID-19 should be considered another risk factor for cardiovascular disease, much like type 2 diabetes or peripheral artery disease, where treatment focused on cardiovascular disease prevention may be valuable.”

    Allayee notes that the findings apply mainly to people who were infected early in the pandemic. It is unclear whether the risk of cardiovascular disease is persistent or may be persistent for people who have had severe COVID-19 more recently (from 2021 to the present).

    Scientists state that the study was limited due to inclusion of patients from only the UK Biobank, a group that is mostly white. Whether the results will differ in a population with more racial and ethnic diversity is unclear and awaits further study. As the study participants were unvaccinated, future studies will be needed to determine whether vaccines influence cardiovascular risk. Studies on the connection between blood type and COVID-19 infection are also needed as the mechanism for the gene-virus interaction remains unclear.

    This study was supported by NIH grants R01HL148110, R01HL168493, U54HL170326, R01DK132735, P01HL147823, R01HL147883, and P30ES007048.

    About the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): NHLBI is the global leader in conducting and supporting research in heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders that advances scientific knowledge, improves public health, and saves lives. For more information, visit http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov.

    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit http://www.nih.gov.

    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitobans Encouraged to get Updated Flu and Covid-19 Vaccines

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 10, 2024

    Manitobans Encouraged to get Updated Flu and Covid-19 Vaccines

    Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care advises that respiratory virus season is here and all Manitobans six months of age and older are encouraged to get their free influenza (flu) and COVID-19 vaccines, which are currently available at many medical clinics, access centres, pharmacies serving high-risk populations, vaccine clinics, nursing stations and through public health. COVID-19 vaccines will be widely available starting Oct. 15.

    Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are especially recommended for those at higher risk of infection or severe disease, along with their caregivers and close contacts.

    Those at increased risk of severe disease include:

    • people 65 years of age and older;
    • residents of personal care homes or long-term care facilities;
    • pregnant people;
    • children from six months of age until they turn five years old;
    • Indigenous people; and
    • individuals with chronic health conditions.

    Influenza and COVID-19 can cause infections of the nose, throat, airways and lungs. These infections are spread through the air when someone who is sick talks, coughs or sneezes. They can also be spread through direct contact with secretions such as saliva or if a person touches an object that can carry and spread disease, including doorknobs or toys, and then touches their mouth, nose or eyes before washing their hands.

    Public health recommends all Manitobans take personal health measures including:

    • staying home when sick until they feel better and no longer have a fever;
    • washing hands or using hand sanitizer regularly;
    • covering coughs and sneezes;
    • wearing a mask in indoor spaces can be considered as an extra layer of protection; and
    • cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that are frequently touched by many people.

    Information and resources regarding the vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases, including resources for prevention, treatment and care of affected individuals in Manitoba, is provided at http://www.manitoba.ca/vaccine. The website also features a vaccine provider map to help people find a location close to them. For Public Health-run clinics, book appointments online at https://patient.petal-health.com/ or call 1-844-MAN-VACC (1- 844-626-8222) Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Whooping cough outbreak prompts calls for urgent action

    Source: Asthma and Respiratory Foundation

    Health experts are calling for urgent widespread vaccination to protect our most vulnerable as whooping cough cases in Aotearoa hit their highest levels in five years.
    The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ, which is supported by leading respiratory specialists, is urging swift preventative measures, particularly for those with existing respiratory conditions.
    Figures from the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) show 187 cases reported in September, more than double the previous month’s total of 75.
    Foundation Medical Director Professor Bob Hancox says whooping cough poses serious health risks for people with respiratory conditions.
    “Whooping cough is a life-threatening illness for young babies, but can also cause serious illness in those already struggling with respiratory issues.
    “It can exacerbate symptoms, leading to hospitalisations or even fatalities.”
    Even among people without respiratory disease, it can cause a nasty illness with a cough that can last for months, Professor Hancox says.
    “So it is crucial that we take this spike in cases seriously – vaccination is our best and strongest defence to protect those who are most vulnerable.”
    Whooping cough, or Bordetella pertussis, is a highly contagious illness.
    According to Healthify, on average, each person with whooping cough passes the infection on to 12 other people.
    Whooping cough causes bouts of intense coughing and trouble breathing. Each bout may last for two or three minutes, and the cough can last three months.
    It can cause serious illness and sometimes death in babies, young children and older adults.
    Foundation Chief Executive Ms Letitia Harding says the best action we can take to protect each other, including the 1 in 5 Kiwis affected by respiratory disease, is to get vaccinated.
    “As we face the risk of a widespread outbreak, it is critical for at-risk individuals to be vaccinated.
    “This includes pregnant people, babies, and older adults with pre-existing respiratory conditions,” she says.
    “The reality is that whooping cough can be fatal, so we are urging all Kiwis to do their part.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: MSF urges for protection of civilians and medical staff amid Israeli bombardment in Lebanon

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    Beirut, Lebanon, 11 October 2024 – As Israeli attacks intensify in Lebanon, healthcare facilities in areas most affected by airstrikes are being forced to close. This is leading to devastating consequences for civilians and their access to healthcare.

    Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) teams are working tirelessly to ensure the continuation of care in our existing facilities, while also scaling up our activities to address the needs emerging from the ongoing conflict. However, due to the intense Israeli airstrikes, we were forced to suspend some activities in highly affected areas. We continue to adapt our activities to provide people with much needed healthcare.

    MSF urges all warring parties to spare civilians, medical facilities, and medical personnel in Lebanon to ensure that vital healthcare services can adequately address people’s urgent medical needs.

    “Given the intensity of the violence, road damage, and the lack of guaranteed safety, we are currently unable to reach all affected areas in Lebanon despite the increasing medical and humanitarian needs,” says François Zamparini, emergency coordinator for MSF in Lebanon.

    Last week, MSF was forced to completely close its clinic in the Palestinian camp of Burj el Barajneh in the southern suburbs of Beirut. We also had to temporarily stop our activities in Baalbek-Hermel, northeast Lebanon. These are both areas heavily affected by the strikes.

    “We partially reopened our clinic in Hermel this week to ensure that patients receive their medications, providing them with a two-to-three-month stock of essential drugs, depending on the severity of their condition and medical risks,” adds Zamparini.

    Patients in these areas are already vulnerable, struggling to access the healthcare they desperately need. The closure of medical facilities has left them, specifically people living with chronic diseases, without the essential services they need.

    MSF medical teams also remain unable to operate properly in southern Lebanon due to a lack of safety guarantees for our medical personnel.

    “One of the hospitals we planned to support and had donated medications and trauma kits to, in Nabatiyeh, only a few kilometres away from the active frontlines, was hit on 5 October,” explains Zamparini.

    An MSF mobile medical team, which had been actively supporting general healthcare centres in Nabatiyeh and other areas closer to the Lebanese border since November 2023, has been forced to stop its activities. The team, which was once able to reach areas near the border, can no longer do so and is currently limited to operating only as far as Saida, which is about 50 kilometres north of the southern border, where needs are highest.

    In the last two weeks, Israeli strikes have claimed the lives of at least fifty paramedics. This brings the total number of healthcare workers killed since October last year to over a hundred, as reported by the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health[1]. The heavy Israeli bombardments have also severely disrupted access to medical care across Lebanon. As of 1 October 2024, six hospitals and 40 general healthcare centres have closed their doors as the intensity of the fighting made it impossible to work without safety guarantees, according to OCHA. [2]

    The armed conflict is worsening an ongoing humanitarian crisis, aggravating existing needs. Lebanon’s healthcare system was already overburdened by the country’s economic crisis, which has caused the emigration of many medical staff and strained the capacity and resources of medical facilities. Local health centres, already at capacity, are now facing increasing pressure as they try to meet the growing medical needs of displaced people.

    The scale of displacement in Lebanon significantly surpasses the country’s ability to provide adequate shelter, with over a million people displaced according to UNHCR[3]. The majority of shelters people are seeking safety in are in dire conditions. To respond, MSF deployed 12 mobile medical teams across various regions of the country, including Beirut, Mount Lebanon, Saida, Tripoli, Bekaa, and Akkar. These teams are providing psychological first aid, general medical consultations, and mental health support, in addition to donating mattresses, hygiene kits, hot meals, and clean water. Nevertheless, people’s needs are far greater than what we are able to cover.

    “We must ensure the continuation of care for those in need,” emphasises Zamparini. “We urge all parties to respect international humanitarian law. Civilians and civilian infrastructure, medical facilities and medical personnel must not be targeted. Their safety must be guaranteed.”

    MSF response to the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon: In response to the ongoing escalation of conflict and intense Israeli bombing in Lebanon, MSF has deployed 12 mobile medical teams across various regions of the country, including Beirut, Mount Lebanon, Saida, Tripoli, Bekaa, and Akkar. These teams are providing psychological first aid, general medical consultations, medication, and mental health support. MSF is also distributing essential items such as blankets, mattresses, and hygiene kits, as well as supplying water by trucks to schools and shelters where displaced people have gathered. Additionally, we are offering hot meals and drinking water to hundreds of displaced families. MSF has also donated fuel and trauma kits to several hospitals, prepositioned 10 tons of medical supplies and trained over 100 healthcare workers in trauma care and mass casualty management across the country.

    MSF first began to work in Lebanon in 1976, and its teams have worked in the country without interruption since 2008.  In 2023, MSF teams worked in six locations across Lebanon, providing 13,609 free medical consultations for vulnerable communities, including Lebanese citizens, refugees, and migrant workers. MSF’s services include mental healthcare, sexual and reproductive healthcare, paediatric care, vaccinations, and treatment for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes. In the past years and as a result of the country’s ongoing economic collapse, people’s humanitarian needs have drastically increased, and we have adapted our projects accordingly. Moreover, we have responded to various types of medical emergencies, and in 2023 we increased our support to respond to the needs resulting from the armed clashes.

    ________________________________

    [1] Health workers in Lebanon describe deadly Israeli attacks on colleagues and fear more | AP News

    [2] https://www.unocha.org/news/todays-top-news-lebanon-occupied-palestinian-territory-and-israel-syria-haiti-ukraine-eastern

    [3] UNHCR’s Grandi appeals for urgent humanitarian support and an end to the bloodshed in Lebanon | UNHCR

    MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey Urge Administration to Ensure Seniors Can Benefit from New Prescription Drug Cost Cap

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey Urge Administration to Ensure Seniors Can Benefit from New Prescription Drug Cost Cap

    The senators urged the Biden Administration to provide more information to seniors about out-of-pocket prescription drug cost cap that goes into effect January 2025
    The $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drugs for Medicare recipients to save seniors $1.5 billion in copays and other expenses
    Senator Reverend Warnock championed the Inflation Reduction Act law lowering out-of-pocket drug costs, giving Medicare the power to negotiate and lower prescription drugs
    Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey also recently reintroduced the Capping Prescription Costs Act to lower out-of-pocket drug costs for families – MORE HERE
    Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey: “The new cap will allow nearly 19 million Medicare beneficiaries to reduce their spending on prescription drugs. We must do more to ensure that older adults understand these new options and benefits”
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Bob Casey (D-PA) are urging the Biden Administration to better inform seniors of the steps they may need to take to benefit from the impending cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs.
    In an October 3 letter to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra, the Senators noted that in January 2025, as a result of the landmark Inflation Reduction Act law, a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries will go into effect and reduce drug costs for nearly 19 million Americans. The Senators urged HHS to increase outreach efforts to ensure that seniors understand how to guarantee their prescription drugs count towards the out-of-pocket cap so they don’t end up paying more than expected.
    “The new cap will allow nearly 19 million Medicare beneficiaries to reduce their spending on prescription drugs. We must do more to ensure that older adults understand these new options and benefits. A lack of information and communication could leave older adults paying more and missing out on benefits to which they are entitled,” wrote the Senators.
    Senators Reverend Warnock and Casey have long led efforts in the Senate to lower prescription drug costs. In 2022, they fought to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which put in place the $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. The law also capped the cost of insulin at $35 a month for Medicare recipients and gave Medicare the power to negotiate prescription drug prices for the first time. Negotiations began last year on the first set of ten drugs: Eliquis, Jardiance, Xarelto, Januvia, Farxiga, Entresto, Enbrel, Imbruvica, Stelara, and NovoLog/Fiasp. In August, the Biden Administration announced the new, lower negotiated prices for each of these first ten drugs. Early next year, the Administration will announce the next set of 15 drugs that will be subject to price negotiations. Senators Warnock and Casey also recently introduced the Capping Prescription Costs Act which would cap annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families with private insurance.
    “The IRA directly lowers prescription drug costs for millions of Americans, and we must do everything we can provide older adults with the resources to understand these benefits. This is especially important with Open Enrollment beginning on October 15, a key opportunity for beneficiaries to ensure their health plans meet their needs. The Biden-Harris Administration has worked tirelessly to pass and implement the IRA, and we look forward to continuing those efforts as provisions of the law take effect, making prescription drugs costs more affordable,” concluded the senators.
    The full letter can be found HERE and the text is below:
    Dear Secretary Becerra:
    Thank you for your ongoing commitment to lowering the cost of health care across the Nation. In just a few months, as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a $2,000 cap on out-of pocket prescription drug costs will go into effect. The new cap will allow nearly 19 million Medicare beneficiaries to reduce their spending on prescription drugs. We must do more to ensure that older adults understand their new options and benefits. A lack of information and communication could leave older adults paying more and missing out on benefits to which they are entitled.  As this and other prescription drug pricing provisions from the IRA take effect, we urge the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to increase outreach efforts to older adults to ensure they are aware of how to benefit from the law
    When Congress passed the IRA, we fought to ensure the legislation included significant steps to improve prescription drug affordability by allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices, capping out of pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries, lowering insulin costs, and decreasing prescription drug costs for low-income Medicare beneficiaries. Last year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) began to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies to lower the price of prescription drugs and in August, CMS announced the negotiated maximum fair prices for the first 10 drugs under the IRA’s negotiation program. Medicare enrollees taking these 10 drugs paid a total of $3.4 billion in out-of-pocket costs in 2022. Had the IRA been in effect in 2023, Medicare would have saved $6 billion, and beneficiaries would have saved $1.5 billion in copays and other expenses. Additional drugs will be negotiated each year under this program, largely expanding the affordability of prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries.
    Starting in 2023, cost-sharing was eliminated for vaccines covered by Medicare Part D. According to HHS, 10.3 million Medicare Part D enrollees received a recommended vaccine free of charge, which saved beneficiaries more than $400 million in out-of-pocket costs. This includes 3.9 million older adults who received a shingles vaccine, which is an increase of about 42 percent from 2021.
    In January 2024, the IRA also capped out of pocket costs for insulin at $35 per month for Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Part B and Part D. Had the IRA been in effect in 2020, 1.5 million Medicare beneficiaries would have benefited, saving about $734 million in Part D and $27 million in Part B, or about $500 in average annual savings per beneficiary. Thanks to pressure from the IRA, three of the largest U.S. insulin manufacturers have capped out-of-pocket insulin costs for even more patients.
    In January 2025, Medicare Part D enrollees will benefit from a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs. This redesign will reduce beneficiary out-of-pocket spending by about $7.4 billion each year among more than 18.7 million enrollees in 2025. This will save nearly $400 per person in out of pocket costs each year. 
    CMS has provided some information about the upcoming implementation of the out-of-pocket cap, with detailed guidance regarding the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan to Part D plan sponsors and a fact sheet for consumers and Medicare beneficiaries. But CMS must do more to inform older adults about the details of the $2,000 out of pocket cap to ensure they are able to realize its maximum benefits. For example, Medicare beneficiaries need information about how to guarantee their prescription drugs count towards the out-of-pocket cap and how to choose the best Part D plan for their individual needs. Without this critical information, beneficiaries may end up paying more than expected.
    The IRA directly lowers prescription drug costs for millions of Americans, and we must do everything we can provide older adults with the resources to understand these benefits. This is especially important with Open Enrollment beginning on October 15, a key opportunity for beneficiaries to ensure their health plans meet their needs. The Biden-Harris Administration has worked tirelessly to pass and implement the IRA, and we look forward to continuing those efforts as provisions of the law take effect, making prescription drugs costs more affordable.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Anthrax vaccine protects sheep and cattle

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    10 Oct 2024

    Livestock producers who manage properties where anthrax has occurred or nearby properties have been reminded to vaccinate their cattle and sheep against anthrax, even though there are no current anthrax cases.

    NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Local Land Services (LLS) advise annual anthrax vaccination on these high-risk properties.

    NSW DPIRD senior veterinary officer, Amanda Walker, said vaccination is a preventative measure against anthrax, the spores of which can lie dormant in the soil for decades.

    “Vaccination effectively prevents anthrax from occurring and helps break the cycle of spore production, reducing cases of this unpredictable and serious disease that can kill stock of any age or class with no warning,” Dr Walker said.

    “If vaccination is continued over time spores in the environment will die, reducing the risk of anthrax occurring in the future.”

    “Producers should contact their LLS district vet to obtain specific advice for their properties.”

    In the past, most anthrax cases have occurred in areas bordered by Bourke and Moree in the north, to Albury and Deniliquin in the south.

    LLS veterinarian, Scott Ison, said the disease is caused by the bacterium, Bacillus anthracis, and affected stock often show few or no signs of ill health before they die.

    “Farmers can apply to use the vaccine through their LLS district veterinarian and once authorised, they can place an order for the vaccine with their local rural supplier or private veterinarian,” Dr Ison said.

    “Farmers should suspect anthrax if animals die suddenly, as in many cases there may be no other signs. The disease may begin in a flock or herd with the deaths of single animals over a few days before increasing to dramatic losses in a very short time.”

    Anthrax is listed as prohibited matter under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 and is a notifiable disease in NSW.

    Anyone who suspects anthrax must report it immediately by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, 1800 675 888.

    More information about preventing anthrax is available on the NSW DPIRD website or from LLS, 1300 795 299.

    Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Misspoke: The long and winding road to becoming a political weasel word

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Valerie M. Fridland, Professor of Linguistics, University of Nevada, Reno

    Democratic candidate Tim Walz, during the vice presidential debate in which he said he ‘misspoke’ about being in Hong Kong during Tiananmen Square protests. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    During the Sept. 24, 2024, debate, Democratic vice presidential hopeful Tim Walz said he “misspoke” when asked to clarify his story of being in Hong Kong during the Tiananmen Square crackdown in June 1989.

    To many, Walz’s use of the word misspoke came across as an attempt to weasel out of what was at best an embellishment and at worst an outright lie.

    The word misspoke has certainly long been used to politically backpedal after verbal inaccuracies or blunders, as Ronald Reagan learned in 1981 after he said that Syrian surface-to-air missiles placed in Lebanon were “offensive weapons,” when they were in fact defensive weapons. Both Presidents Bill Clinton and the much “misunderestimated” George W. Bush likewise were deemed to have misspoken after making mistakes, big and small.

    For instance, a spokesperson for Clinton claimed he had misspoken when the then-president said that North Korea would not be allowed to develop a nuclear bomb – after there was reason to believe they had already developed them. During George W. Bush’s term in office, verbal errors were so common they earned a nickname of their own: “Bushisms.”

    But misspoke’s extension to factual fabrication is one step further down the semantic road. In using it in this way, Walz joined other “misspoken” politicians, such as Hillary Clinton, who used it after falsely recollecting having landed in Bosnia under sniper fire.

    As a sociolinguist who writes about how language changes over time, misspoke’s euphemistic recasting of lying as an inadvertent mistake calls for deeper linguistic scrutiny.

    Tim Walz, being pressed on a statement he made and whether it was true, during the vice presidential debate.

    From mumble to mea culpa

    To understand how and why words morph like this, linguists like to trace them to their very beginnings.

    According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “misspeaking” is quite old in the history of English, appearing as “missprecon” in a Northumbrian text dating before the 11th century. Its original sense was one of “to grumble” or “to mumble,” a meaning now obsolete.

    But after the 11th century, its meaning shifted from inarticulateness to that of speaking amiss or disparagingly, often mentioned in reference to saying something improper or upsetting. Chaucer makes use of this sense in the “Miller’s Tale”: “And therfore if that I mysspeke or seye, Wyte it the ale of Southwerk, I you preye,” where the Miller handily blames a bit too much ale for whatever impropriety might fall from his mouth.

    Around the time Chaucer was composing “The Canterbury Tales” in the late 14th century, the word “misspeak” branched off down yet another semantic path, taking on the meaning of “to speak incorrectly or misleadingly.” It is this sense that gave birth to the modern political mea culpa used when backtracking on a misleading prior statement, such as by Sen. John McCain after he claimed President Barack Obama was directly responsible for terrorist attacks on Americans.

    Expanding meaning

    These shifts in the meaning of a word over time fall under what linguists refer to as “semantic broadening.” Semantic broadening, which means expansion of a word’s meaning, is incredibly common, generally occurring when a word becomes used more frequently and across more situations. As a result, its core sense can expand to take on supplemental or tangential meanings.

    Semantic shift like this is constantly at work, pushing and pulling senses in related but new directions to stay relevant to the needs of speakers.

    The word “soon,” for instance, at first carried a meaning of “immediately,” but human nature being what it is, its meaning began to creep in the direction of “as immediately as possible” as people took their merry time.

    Some new meanings, such as the nonliteral use of “literally” and Walz’s use of “misspeak,” are sites of contest, with multiple meanings at play.

    The semantic broadening of misspeaking to cover not just misleading but knowingly false information didn’t start with Walz, nor did it begin with Clinton. In fact, this politically expedient expansion seems to go back at least to the Nixon administration.

    There’s been a lot of misspeaking by politicians over the years, as these stories show.
    The Guardian US; The Hill; Wall Street Journal; Politico; Washington Post.

    ‘I misspoke myself’

    In 1973, Nixon and his advisers were called to task in a Time article accusing them of a tendency to “make flat statements one day, and the next day reverse field with the simple phrase, ‘I misspoke myself.’” Given the Watergate scandal, it’s safe to say that misspoke as used by his administration had already shifted into deceptive speech territory.

    Perhaps misspeaking’s semantic slippery slope started even further back, when the prefix “mis,” with its sense of “badly,” combined with “speaking.”

    Consider other potentially weaselly words that are also formed by “mis” prefixation: misunderstood, misinterpret, mishear, mistake. These are all examples of words, like misspeak, that can and have been used by politicians to avoid taking responsibility for the false or “misleading” things they say.

    Even if led astray by its prefix, from a linguistic perspective, the broadening of misspeak to cover not just incorrect but fabricated statements turns out to be not such a surprising development given the tendency of words to take on new senses over time, particularly in the world of political doublespeak.

    The bigger surprise might be how this new meaning translates with voters, but that’s one surprise that will have to wait for the ballot box.

    Valerie M. Fridland does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Misspoke: The long and winding road to becoming a political weasel word – https://theconversation.com/misspoke-the-long-and-winding-road-to-becoming-a-political-weasel-word-240533

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –