And so, another working week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? This is, you may recall, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda is rather modest. We hope to beautify the Pharmalot grounds, promenade with the official mascot, and catch up on our reading. And what about you? This is a lovely time of year to enjoy the great outdoors. Those of you who are vaccinated may have a chance to re-enter society at a favorite coffee shop. And for those who can do so, remember to reach out to Mom. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you soon….
Pfizer (PFE) and BioNTech (BNTX) asked the Food and Drug Administration for full approval of their Covid-19 vaccine; if approved, it would be the first shot in the U.S. to hold that distinction, NBC News says. Last December, the vaccine was the first in the U.S. to be authorized for emergency use. Full approval may make vaccine mandates more feasible and help employers decide whether to require employees get vaccinated before reentering the workplace. The FDA is expected to take several weeks to review the application.
The European Commission wants to speed up European Union approval of experimental Covid-19 drugs with the aim of having at least three new medicines authorized by October, Reuters reports. The Commission will also draw up a portfolio of 10 potential Covid-19 therapeutics and will identify the five most promising ones by June, hoping to launch joint procurements on behalf of EU governments by the end of the year. The EU executive has already been in talks with drug makers developing monoclonal antibodies for possible procurement.
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