Israel Grants Emergency Use Authorization for Pfizer Pill Treatment

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Israel has granted emergency use authorization for Paxlovid, an oral COVID-19 treatment developed by Pfizer.

Local media Haaretz reported on the 26th (local time) that the Israeli Ministry of Health announced this in a statement on the same day.

The treatment is intended for mild patients aged 12 and older or high-risk severe patients weighing over 40kg. The Ministry of Health stated, "Paxlovid must be taken within 5 days after symptoms appear," and added, "It is expected to be equally effective against the Omicron variant."

The Israeli Ministry of Health has signed a purchase agreement with Pfizer but did not disclose the specific quantity. Haaretz reported, "The treatment is expected to arrive in Israel within a few days."

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the emergency use of Paxlovid on the 22nd. It is the first oral COVID-19 treatment authorized by the FDA.

Paxlovid has an 89% effectiveness in preventing hospitalization and death among high-risk groups. It should be taken every 12 hours for 5 days after symptoms appear.

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety is expected to announce the emergency use authorization status of Paxlovid in Korea as early as the 27th.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.