US FDA seems to want Modern and Pfizer to study their mRNA vaccines in 3,000 people ages five to 11, suggesting the rate of myocarditis in younger children may be higher than in older teens. Such a finding, and even the hunt for it, could push back any COVID-19 vaccine authorization for this population.

Draft EU legislation on tackling cross-border health threats has taken another step forward, as health authorities say the Delta variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus will be the “globally dominant strain” over the coming months.

While a Star Health study found high hospitalization costs for COVID-19 patients in India, those vaccinated paid 24% less and faced 81% lower mortality risk. However, insurers are unlikely to offer lower premiums to those vaccinated, even as the prospects for an overall hike remain uncertain, say experts.

Dosing is capped under emergency use authorizations, but studies show reduced antibody response following primary vaccination series in individuals with compromised immune systems; although BLA approval could allow for off-label prescribing, government officials are exploring other regulatory options for earlier access, including through a study.