COVID-19 Vaccine
Dolly Parton started a foundation in 1995 to help young children read. Donated nearly 325 million books across the US, UK, and Canada; her father's inability inspired her
Dolly Parton, who passed away on August 25, 2026, left behind a significant philanthropic legacy. The Imagination Library, launched in 1995, has gifted over 325 million books to young children. This initiative started from her own father's literacy challenges and aimed to improve access to books. Furthermore, Parton contributed to healthcare and disaster relief, reflecting her commitment to service. Her work continues to influence children's literacy and community support.
We are working to develop relations with China once again: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that India seeks to improve relations with China, ensuring fair deals. Bilateral trade between India and China reached USD 127.7 billion, which reflects significant growth in exports and imports. Furthermore, Goyal expressed concerns regarding the widening trade deficit and tightened FDI policies due to geopolitical tensions. India experienced supply chain vulnerabilities during Covid, leading to a focus on self-sufficiency.
‘Middle powers’ grapple with new survival strategies under Trump era
Middle-power countries like India, Canada, and the UK are navigating a transformed global landscape. They face challenges from supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions and competition between superpowers. Leaders at the New Economy Forum emphasized the importance of collaboration among these nations for mutual benefits. Strategies discussed included diversifying trade partners and enhancing resilience in supply chains.
WHO says Russia confirms death at research lab, no plague case registered
The World Health Organization said it has not identified the cause of pneumonia that killed a Russian laboratory worker in Siberia on October 2. Tests for high-threat pathogens were negative, contacts remain symptom-free and no linked cases have emerged. Russia quarantined around 200 people following the death, which triggered public health concerns.
Our central mission must be patient-centric innovation: JP Nadda
J P Nadda urges industry to take discoveries ‘from bench to bedside’ as the FICCI–Lilly Bharat Life Sciences Award backs its inaugural cohort with ₹7 crore in grants
Russia Plague Explained: What do we know so far about the institute lab worker’s death?
A laboratory worker at Russia’s Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute died after developing an unidentified form of pneumonia, triggering precautionary quarantine measures and social media speculation. Authorities have said there is no evidence she died of plague or that anyone she contacted was infected, while tests have so far found no plague cases linked to her.
COVID-19 cases are rising again in US: These states may see high coronavirus activity
The rise in COVID-19 cases is notably observed in the Southern and Western regions of the United States. Wastewater analysis indicates a concerning spike in viral activity, which suggests increased community transmission. Reports show infections are on the rise in 27 states, while 13 states experience a decline. With overlapping symptoms between COVID-19 and influenza, accurate diagnosis poses a challenge for health officials.
Manipur Cabinet adopts resolution marking PM Modi’s 25 years in public service
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh announced the Cabinet's resolution thanking Prime Minister Modi for his service. The resolution acknowledged the Prime Minister's contributions to India's growth and support for the Northeastern region. Significant initiatives under his leadership include infrastructure developments, healthcare improvements, and educational advancements in Manipur. The Prime Minister's efforts have helped lift millions out of poverty and enhance public services.
When nothing is cheap, winners may come from any corner: 19 stocks with downside to upside potential of -28% to plus 22%
Because each pharma company took a different road, they no longer rise and fall together. Where any one of them stands in 10 years depends on what it chose in the last five or six. So, one name can do wonderfully while the one sitting next to it does very little. Stock Reports Plus, powered by Refinitiv, is a comprehensive report that evaluates five key components of 4,000+ listed stocks – earnings, fundamentals, relative valuation, risk, and price momentum – to generate standardised scores. The simple average of the above-mentioned five component ratings is normally distributed to reach an average score.
A Donald Trump campaign message has returned to Television, and taxpayers are now picking up the bill
The 30-second video is strikingly similar to an ad used during Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. In the narration, Trump vows to remove people he calls “globalists” and “warmongers” from the government. He also takes aim at what he describes as the “deep state” and attacks the news media.
2026 Nobel Prize Predictions: From GLP-1 drugs and CAR-T therapy to gene editing, these breakthroughs could take centre stage
Predictions for the 2026 Nobel Prizes in science highlight significant contributions in areas like GLP-1 research and cancer therapies. Carl June is mentioned for his role in developing CAR-T cell therapy for cancer treatment. Researchers Emmanuel Mignot and Masashi Yanagisawa are noted for their work on orexin related to sleep regulation. Optical coherence tomography and lipid nanoparticle technology are also strong candidates for recognition.
Taxpayer money, Trump's face: White House ramps up TV ad blitz as bipartisan anger grows over 'propaganda' spend
The Trump administration is currently airing taxpayer-funded advertisements promoting President Trump, which has raised concerns. Lawmakers from both parties have criticized the ads for their political tone and timing, especially close to the midterms. One ad features Trump speaking at Mount Rushmore, while another highlights achievements like tax cuts and American manufacturing. Despite the administration's defense, citing past practices, questions about legality persist.
COVID-19 had a scientific head start; the next pandemic virus may be a stranger. NVIDIA and Google DeepMind are using AI to map 2,800 viruses before the next outbreak
An international collaboration has developed a dataset of predicted protein structures from more than 2,800 viruses. This data is accessible through the AlphaFold Database, aiding in pandemic preparedness. Researchers can accelerate their investigations of new viruses using this information for potential treatments. The dataset provides insights into protein interactions, making it a valuable resource for global scientists.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has a career lesson from 3 Nobel prize winners as AI forces layoffs and changes jobs across the world
Biocon chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw shared a message on persistence from three 2023 Nobel Prize winners as AI reshapes jobs and companies rethink their workforces. Her post highlighted the importance of finding reasons to keep going despite setbacks, a message that resonates with workers facing career uncertainty, layoffs and changing skill requirements.
Covid ka chota bhai: Radiologist shares scan of a young patient showing the effects of H1N1 influenza spread across India, says it is not a harmless diesease
A doctor has shared an Instagram post featuring a CT scan that he claimed showed extensive lung infection in a young woman with influenza. Calling flu the “Chota bhai of Covid”, he warned that some patients may require hospitalisation or intensive care. He also shared five prevention tips, including masking in crowded places, healthy habits, adequate sleep and timely medical consultation.
India's cultural, civilisational renaissance remained incomplete after Independence: Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated India's cultural renaissance remained incomplete after independence. He attributed this to appeasement politics and a distorted secularism concept. Singh highlighted India's ongoing cultural and civilisational renaissance under Prime Minister Modi. He emphasised strengthening national consciousness through heritage awareness for progress. India's achievements in defense, economy, and poverty reduction were also noted.
Young golfer enters world of entrepreneurship with new venture
Golfer Krishiv Tekchandani has launched an ultra-luxury watch venture named XII NOON. This new business aims to create exclusive timepieces for a discerning global clientele. Tekchandani previously donated prize money to support a COVID-19 vaccination drive.
Bangladesh fights world's worst measles outbreak as vaccination gaps fuel spread
Bangladesh is battling what the US CDC lists as the world’s largest measles outbreak, with 999 suspected and confirmed measles-related deaths reported since March. More than 166,000 suspected cases have been recorded as hospitals struggle with overcrowding, vaccine disruptions and a simultaneous surge in dengue.
Tech CEOs call for AI regulation. Trump and Congress are not rushing to act
President Donald Trump is leading the opposition to recent calls by tech leaders seeking greater government oversight, including Anthropic's Dario Amodei, OpenAI's Sam Altman and xAI's Elon Musk.
The epistemology of power: Why BRICS must build a common scientific architecture
For nations striving for geopolitical balance, achieving scientific and technological independence is crucial. The BRICS alliance, with its substantial population and economic resources, is focused on developing joint scientific initiatives and promoting collaborative innovations. By pooling their strengths, they intend to amplify their influence on future technological advancements and frameworks, thus enhancing their role in global tech governance.
BRICS by BRICS: India's journey from seeking reforms to shaping global order
India's BRICS engagement has shifted from seeking a voice to offering indigenous solutions. The nation now actively shapes global order with scalable innovations and partnerships. Digital Public Infrastructure, like UPI, offers a blueprint for inclusive growth across emerging economies. BRICS facilitates exchange, allowing countries to adapt technology to their specific needs. This evolution demonstrates emerging economies building and innovating workable alternatives for global trade.
Trump says he's nominating acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao for the permanent job
President Donald Trump nominated acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao to permanently lead the Navy, backing a combat veteran amid concerns over sailors’ strain during the Iran war. Cao, a former special operations officer, has served as acting secretary since April. His nomination comes amid wider upheaval across the US military leadership.
ET World Leaders Forum 2026: Boris Johnson thanks India for Covid vaccine, credits Brexit for UK rollout
Boris Johnson acknowledged India's significant role in Britain's Covid-19 vaccination efforts. He personally received the Indian version of the AstraZeneca vaccine during the pandemic. Johnson stated Britain deployed vaccines months faster than EU countries due to Brexit. This allowed for quicker regulatory approvals and vaccine procurement processes. He also rejected any possibility of Britain rejoining the European Union.
US refusals of crucial newborn vitamin spike, raising risk of dangerous bleeding
US hospitals report a significant rise in vitamin K shot refusals for newborns. This trend has accelerated sharply this year, increasing life-threatening bleeding risks. Girl babies are disproportionately affected by these increasing vitamin K refusal rates. Doctors express growing concern over the rising risk of catastrophic bleeding in newborns. Health agencies are evaluating data and surveillance related to vitamin K refusals and bleeding events.
In 2007, ESA sent 3,000 tardigrades into low Earth orbit; after 10 days of vacuum and UV-A/UV-B exposure, 68% revived upon rehydration
Known for their resilience, tardigrades have astonishingly withstood the harsh conditions of outer space. Their unique protein showcases an ability to shield cells from radiation damage. Researchers are now investigating how this protein might protect human cells, potentially benefiting cancer patients during radiation therapy. This groundbreaking discovery may also provide valuable insights for upcoming space explorations.
In 2016, Dolly Parton gave $1,000 per month for six months to Tennessee wildfire victims, raising $8.9 million through My People fund
The world mourns the loss of country music legend Dolly Parton, who passed away peacefully at eighty in Nashville on August 25. From her modest roots, she transformed into an icon, creating a legacy through her music. Passionate about education, she founded the Imagination Library, delivering countless free books to children globally. Her philanthropic spirit extended to aiding disaster recovery and funding COVID-19 vaccine research.
This 17-year-old student built a math model that predicts how multiple diseases spread together inside the body
Alyssa Yu, a 17-year-old Maryland student, has developed a mathematical model to predict how two infectious diseases can spread and interact across connected populations. Her research could help public health officials identify outbreak hotspots and target vaccination efforts more effectively. Yu was named one of 40 finalists in the 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search.
Shipping tycoon Klaus-Michael Kuehne dies at 89 in Switzerland
Klaus-Michael Kuehne, the richest man in Germany, has passed away at the age of 89. Under his leadership, Kuehne + Nagel transformed into a global freight forwarding powerhouse. The company experienced a remarkable profit boost during the recent pandemic, attributed to a surge in demand for healthcare and consumer products. His substantial stake in Kuehne + Nagel significantly contributed to his immense wealth.
Covid 19 vaccines' updated versions to be available in US market in September, say CDC, FDA officials. Check age limit, where to get
Covid-19 vaccines' updated versions will be available in the US by mid-September and will be distributed through the commercial market, CDC, FDA officials revealed.
Covid-19 vaccine: C-CAMP partners Hitachi ABB for cold chain solutions
C-CAMP and Hitachi ABB Power Grids will provide portable cold-chain transport devices for Covid-19 vaccines in Bengaluru, Mysore and Chennai over the next six months.
Precaution dose of Covid-19 vaccine rolled out at private centres
All vaccinations will mandatorily be recorded on CoWIN platform and both the options of 'Online appointment' and 'Walk-in' registration and vaccination will be available at private Covid vaccination centres (CVCs). Private CVCs will maintain the vaccination sites as per the guidelines issued earlier by the Ministry of Health. The cumulative Covid-19 vaccine doses administered in the country has exceeded 185.70 crore, according to official data till 7am.
Over 16.24 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in India: Government
The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 16,24,30,828, according to a provisional report compiled at 8 pm.
About 4.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in 19 days, says Health Ministry
In a span of 24 hours, 3,10,604 people were vaccinated across 8,041 sessions, it said, adding that 84,617 sessions have been conducted so far.
What Trump’s push for fewer vaccines could mean for US children
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is seeking public comments on vaccine recommendations. This review follows President Donald Trump's directive to examine childhood immunization schedules. The department is exploring new ways to classify and communicate vaccine guidance. Feedback is being gathered on shared decision-making and public trust concerns. The public consultation period remains open until September 20.
Boris Johnson recalls Queen Elizabeth's remark on India's enduring Russia ties
Boris Johnson reflected on Queen Elizabeth II's observation regarding India's robust ties with Russia, a bond that traces back to 1952 during Prime Minister Nehru's tenure. He emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between India, the US, and the UK, lauding India's pivotal role in supplying COVID-19 vaccines to Britain. Additionally, he mentioned the positive implications of Brexit for trade relations between India and the UK.
Moderna shares soar 159% in a day after cancer vaccine succeeds in late-stage trial
Moderna shares surged after its personalized mRNA cancer vaccine trial showed positive results. The treatment, combined with Keytruda, reduced melanoma recurrence and spread significantly. This marks the first successful late-stage trial for an mRNA cancer vaccine. The findings offer hope for future growth beyond COVID-19 vaccines. Discussions with regulators are expected within the next few months.
FDA memo on pediatric COVID-19 vaccine deaths sparks concern, expert debate
A leaked FDA memo alleging at least 10 pediatric COVID-19 vaccine deaths, citing myocarditis without data, has sparked alarm. This comes as federal guidance on child vaccinations becomes increasingly divided, with differing recommendations from the CDC, major health organizations, and state coalitions, leaving parents confused.
India administers more than 56 lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses in last 24 hours
India administered a total of 56,72,766 vaccine doses through 1,80,50,126 vaccination sessions in the last 24 hours, stated the official Health Ministry release today.
Cognizant announces nationwide Covid-19 vaccination drive for associates
Cognizant is also delivering life-saving supplies, including 1,000 oxygen beds, ventilators, and covid vaccinations, using its $8.5 million Covid-19 relief fund, to the worst-hit communities.
Over 38.50 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses administered so far: Govt
Cumulatively, 11,59,50,619 people in the 18-44 age group across all states and union territories have received the first dose and 40,19,089 have received the second dose since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive on May 1.
Pfizer to test third dose of COVID-19 vaccine in children
The study will now include a third dose of 3 microgram given at least two months after the second dose of the two-dose series to provide high levels of protection, the companies said.
UK expands COVID vaccines to at-risk 5 to 11-year-old kids
Eligible children include those with diabetes, immunosuppression, learning disabilities, and other serious conditions that place them at a high risk from COVID-19. NHS England said nearly 500,000 eligible children in England are set to receive their first dose of a COVID vaccine in line with advice set out by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).
Over 57 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses provided to states, UTs so far
The health ministry said the Union Government is committed to accelerating the pace and expanding the scope of COVID-19 vaccination throughout the country.
CoWin’s reach getting a booster shot, target is to vaccinate 5-10 mn people daily
On Thursday, a record 200,000 vaccinations were done in a day, but if 300 million people are to be vaccinated by June under the first phase, the number of shots given per day needs to be increased substantially, RS Sharma, chairperson of the empowered committee for administration of the Covid-19 vaccine, told ET.
Over 41.69 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses so far provided to states/UTs: Centre
In a statement, the ministry said that 41,69,24,550 vaccine doses have been provided to states and Union Territories (UTs) so far through all sources. Of this, the total consumption, including wastage, is 38,94,87,442 doses, according to data available at 8 am Saturday, the ministry said.
Shots in little arms: COVID-19 vaccine testing turns to kids
Researchers in the U.S. and abroad are beginning to test younger and younger kids to make sure COVID-19 vaccines are safe and work for each age. The first shots are going to adults who are most at risk from the coronavirus, but ending the pandemic will require vaccinating children too.
Over 85.42 crore Covid-19 vaccine doses provided to states, UTs so far: Centre
Over 4.57 crore balance and unutilised COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered, the Union Health Ministry said.
Hyderabad set to emerge as global hub for Covid-19 vaccine in 2021
The vaccine development process by Bharat Biotech, Biological E Ltd and Aurobindo Pharma are currently in various stages, while Dr Reddy's and Hetero have tie ups for manufacturing the vaccine.
Over 87.6 crore Covid vaccine doses administered in India so far, says health ministry
The vaccination exercise as a tool to protect the most vulnerable population groups in the country from COVID-19 continues to be regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry underlined.
UK advisers decide against COVID vaccines for healthy 12- to 15-year-olds
The advice could see Britain pursue a different approach to the United States and some European countries, which are pursuing broader vaccination of the age group.
Canada authorises first plant-based COVID-19 vaccine
The decision was based on a study of 24,000 adults that found the vaccine was 71% effective at preventing COVID-19 - although that was before the omicron variant emerged. Side effects were mild, including fever and fatigue.
Over 88.94 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses provided to states, UTs, says Centre
The vaccination drive has been ramped up through availability of more vaccines, advance visibility of vaccine availability to states and UTs for enabling better planning by them, and streamlining the vaccine supply chain, the ministry said.
Expert committee on COVID-19 vaccine administration to meet on Wednesday
The phase-1 human clinical trials of the two COVID-19 vaccine candidates, developed indigenously by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research and Zydus Cadila Ltd, have been completed and the trials have moved to phase 2, ICMR Director General Balram Bhargava said last Tuesday.
India committed to supplying COVID-19 vaccines to other nations; exports to begin by year end
"India's commitment to provide vaccines to other nations stands. It has been reiterated by the Indian leadership... However, major supplies to other nations will have to be balanced against India's own needs of vaccines for the country's vaccination program," an official told PTI on condition of anonymity.
India might have to wait to vaccinate all its citizens. Here's why
India began vaccination against Covid-19 on January 16. In phase-I, only healthcare and frontline workers were eligible to get the vaccine. March 1 onwards, in phase-II, senior citizens and persons aged between 45 and 59 years with specified comorbidities were allowed to take the jab.
Single dose of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine provokes strong immune response: Study
"This finding can help countries make informed decisions regarding vaccine policy -- for instance, whether those previously infected should be vaccinated in priority and, if so, with how many doses," said Professor Michael Edelstein, from Bar-Ilan University, who led the study.
Decision on COVID-19 vaccination for 5-15 age group to be taken as per experts' recommendation: Mandaviya
"When to vaccinate and to which age group is decided on the basis of recommendation of a group of scientists. We had implemented its recommendation for the precaution group within one week. We will surely implement its recommendation (for 5 to 15 age group) as and when we receive it," Mandaviya said in a press conference.
Japan's Covid-19 vaccine booking system crashes, compounding woes
The online system to book a Covid-19 vaccine crashed in many places, including parts of Tokyo and the western city of Minoh, because of a global problem with US cloud computing vendor Salesforce.com Inc.
Pfizer raises COVID-19 vaccine sales forecast to $36 bn for 2021
Driven by an unprecedented vaccination drive against the COVID-19 pandemic globally, Pfizer's shot has quickly become one of the best-selling products in the company's roughly 172-year history.
Prioritise vaccinating those due for second dose of COVID-19 vaccine: Centre to states
The urgent need to address a large number of beneficiaries waiting for second dose of vaccine was stressed in a meeting held by Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan and Dr R S Sharma, the Chairman of Empowered Group on Technology and Data Management to Combat COVID-19, with state officials to review the status of COVID-19 vaccination on Tuesday.
ET WLF 2026: Boris Johnson says India, US, UK must work together to find a way out of West Asia crisis
Boris Johnson lauded India's strong leadership and predicted an incredible future for the nation. He expressed deep dissatisfaction over the US not consulting the UK on the Iran war. Johnson believes the UK could have prevented the US from entering an obvious trap. He also highlighted progress on the India-UK free trade agreement negotiations. The former Prime Minister preferred American global hegemony over that of China.
Possible but not certain COVID-19 vaccine rolled out this year: Oxford developer
"The end of the year target for getting vaccine rollout, it's a possibility but there's absolutely no certainty about that because we need three things to happen," said Sarah Gilbert, adding it needed to be shown to work in late stage trials, there needed to be large quantities manufactured and regulators had to agree quickly to licence it for emergency use.
India has gained rights for vaccines to cover 50% of population: Study
Most of the rich countries have already purchased 3.8 billion doses of yet-to-be-approved Covid-19 vaccines, with an additional 5 billion doses reserved or under negotiation, according to data compiled by Duke Global Health Innovation Center, which looked at advance purchase agreements from across the world.
No individual can be forced to be vaccinated, says SC; "Bodily integrity protected under Constitution"
A bench of Justices L Nageswara Rao and B R Gavai said bodily autonomy and integrity are protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. The top court said the current COVID-19 vaccine policy cannot be said to be manifestly arbitrary and unreasonable.
Piramal Enterprises to cover vaccination costs for employees taking jabs in India
The company will absorb the cost of Covid-19 vaccination for all its employees and their immediate family members that are eligible and choose to receive the vaccination in India, Piramal Enterprises said in a statement.
EU approves 5th COVID-19 vaccine for bloc, one by Novavax
The Novavax shot joins those from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca in the EU's vaccine armory.
Covid booster dose effective in reducing severe disease outcomes: Lancet study
It is the first to estimate the effectiveness of a third dose of Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA COVID-19 vaccine against severe outcomes with adjustment for various possible confounders, including comorbidities and behavioural factors. A recent clinical trial conducted by BioNTech included a smaller sample size and did not estimate the third-dose's effects for more severe outcomes.
Over 124 crore vaccine doses administered in India so far: Health Ministry
According to the ministry, the daily vaccination tally is expected to increase with the compilation of the final reports for the day by late in the night. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16 with healthcare workers getting inoculated in the first phase. The vaccination of frontline workers started from February 2.
France's Sanofi signs COVID-19 vaccine deal with Novavax
Sanofi and Novavax partnered for a COVID-19 vaccine deal. Novavax will receive $1.2 billion in milestones. Sanofi will take an equity stake in Novavax. Novavax's COVID shot got U.S. approval after Pfizer and Moderna.
India has not banned COVID-19 vaccine exports, will keep supplying in phased manner: Government source
"We had stated that keeping in view the domestic requirements of the phased roll-out, India will continue to supply COVID-19 vaccines to partner countries over the coming weeks and months in a phased manner," the source said.
HealthifyMe acquihires Under45, launches vaccination slot bookings
Developed by Chennai-based Berty Thomas, the Under45 platform sends vaccination slot alerts to users opting for the service via the Telegram messaging app.
India's COVID-19 vaccination coverage crosses 156 crore
Cumulatively, 90,68,44,414 first doses and 65,51,95,703 second doses have been administered.
