An experimental COVID-19 therapy tablet referred to as molnupiravir being developed by Merck & Co Inc and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics LP, is seen on this undated handout picture launched by Merck & Co Inc and obtained by Reuters Could 17, 2021. Merck & Co Inc/Handout through REUTERS
SINGAPORE, Oct 6 (Reuters) – Merck (MRK.N) introduced on Wednesday a provide and buy settlement that may present Singapore with entry to its experimental oral COVID-19 antiviral drug, the newest Asian nation to attempt to snap up provides.
Molnupiravir is designed to introduce errors into the genetic code of the virus and can be the primary oral antiviral treatment for COVID-19. Merck is looking for approval by the US Meals and Drug Administration for the tablet.
Singapore’s well being ministry didn’t instantly reply to a request for affirmation of the Merck settlement.
Australia has additionally purchased the Merck tablet, whereas Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan and Malaysia have been in talks to purchase it. The Philippines hopes its trial of the tablet would permit it entry.
The frenzy to order the drug comes after information from interim clinical trials launched on Friday indicated it may cut back by about 50% the probability of hospitalisation or loss of life for sufferers liable to extreme illness from COVID-19.
Singapore reported a file 3,486 new coronavirus circumstances on Tuesday, because it offers with its largest outbreak up to now. It has vaccinated greater than 80% of its individuals in opposition to COVID-19.
Reporting by Chen Lin; Modifying by Martin Petty
Our Requirements: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.
