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WHO grants prequalification to new polio vaccine

Feb 14, 2026

Geneva [Switzerland], February 14: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has granted prequalification to a new novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2), in a move it said will support global efforts to eradicate the disease.
In a statement, the organisation said the prequalification confirms that the vaccine meets international standards for quality, safety and efficacy, allowing United Nations agencies such as the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) to procure and distribute it for immunization campaigns.
WHO noted that the vaccine is designed to be less likely to mutate compared to previous oral polio vaccines, thereby reducing the risk of triggering new outbreaks, while maintaining its ability to stop virus transmission.
Source: Emirates News Agency

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Star Health settles over ₹780 crore in cancer claims in H1 FY27; highlights women's treatment and financial protection needs

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], November 6: Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (NSE: STARHEALTH) (BSE: 543412), one of India's leading Health Insurance companies, settled over 85,900 cancer-related claims*2 worth over ₹780 crores during H1 FY27. Nearly 30% of this has been for people aged between 51 and 60 years. Women accounted for approximately 60% of these cancer claims, with settlements for women increasing 17% Year-on-Year. These figures illustrate the scale of financial support accessed by insured women and their families during cancer treatment.

Nov 06, 2026