The World Health Organization has approved a version of a widely used cholera vaccine that could help address a surge in cases that has depleted the global vaccine stockpile and left poorer countries scrambling to contain epidemics. WHO authorized the vaccine, made by EuBiologics, which also makes the formulation now used, last week. The new version, called Euvichol-S, is a simplified formula that uses fewer ingredients, is cheaper, and can be made more quickly than the old version. The vaccine was shown to be help preventing the diarrheal disease in late stage research conducted in Nepal. WHO’s approval means donor agencies like the vaccines alliance Gavi and UNICEF can now buy it for poorer countries. Leila Pakkala, director of UNICEF’s supply division, said in a statement that the agency will be able to boost supplies by more than 25%. |
Selfless Dedication — from Generation to GenerationHelping Women Play Greater Roles in Promoting Social DevelopmentHou Hongqin: Working Hard to Ensure Qinqiang Opera ThrivesHow China Transformed into a Leading EconomyFamily Photos Mirror China's Social Development, Convey Messages of Good Family TraditionsRising Tennis Star Makes History, Aims to Return StrongerRural Entrepreneurs Help Farmers Live Better LivesA Couple's Efforts to Build a Strong Aviation CountryMinistry Strengthens Efforts to Lighten Children's Academic BurdensPAP Helping Spring Bud Girls Make a Bright Future