Debate Begins on Addressing Equity With the New COVID-19 Pill

While the world’s wealthiest nations are offering booster shots to their populations, some poor countries have very little access to COVID-19 vaccines. Now with a new medication to treat COVID-19-related illness on the horizon, public health officials across the globe are discussing how to ensure equitable access to what may end up being a pandemic game changer. Made by Merck, the antiviral drug molnupiravir is for those infected with SARS-CoV-2, and it has shown to reduce severity of illness and prevent hospitalization. Molnupiravir is currently under review by the United States Food and Drug Administration, with a decision on whether it will receive Emergency Use Authorization to be made by December. To support the equitable use of its new drug, Merck has already licensed its use to manufacturers in India, which may help keep cost low. Click here to read more.