Antibody tests indicate past exposure or immune response to vaccine. They, however, cannot detect neutralising antibodies which protect against future infections.
Several institutes and experts advocate see this as an efficacy trial that could help boost confidence in vaccines, especially Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin that is in phase-3 trials.
Until now, most tests could tell only whether antibodies are present. The newer ones measure the quantity of proteins raised by the immune system to disable viral invaders.
Industry says manufacturers have 2-4 weeks of buffer stocks, but prolonged disruption could push up shortage risks, especially of consumables like IV and syringes.
French newspaper La Tribune earlier last week indicated that UAE withdrew from deal to fund EUR 3.5 billion. India is looking to order 114 new Rafales, which could include the F5.
China patiently invested capital, skill and technology in coal gasification. Unlike it, we won’t move from words to action. As crude prices decline, we lose interest.
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