Merck antiviral pill raises hope of preventing COVID-19 deaths
The Hindu
If approved, molnupiravir would be 1st oral antiviral COVID-19 drug
An antiviral pill developed by U.S.drugmaker Merck & Co could half the chances of dying or being hospitalized for those most at risk of contracting severe COVID-19, with experts hailing it as a potential breakthrough in how the virus is treated.
If it gets authorization, molnupiravir, which is designed to introduce errors into the genetic code of the virus, would be the first oral antiviral medication for COVID-19.
Merck and partner Ridgeback Biotherapeutics said they plan to seek U.S. emergency use authorization for the pill as soon as possible and to make regulatory applications worldwide.

The Crafts Council of India, Chennai, presents a tribal jewellery exhibition showcasing contemporary handcrafted designs inspired by India’s indigenous communities. Featuring Dokra metalwork, natural materials, bold folk motifs and jewellery by designers from across the country, the exhibition highlights the rich intersection of traditional craft and modern aesthetics.












