Category: Medical

As of 2024, the global healthcare simulation market is valued at approximately $2.5 billion. The industry is projected to double in size and reach nearly $5 billion by 2034, reflecting a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 7.5% throughout the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. This expansion is being fueled by rising investments in medical education, growing awareness of patient safety, and rapid integration of simulation technologies within healthcare training curricula.

Simulation in healthcare is becoming increasingly essential as it allows students, clinicians, and professionals to practice in realistic, risk-free environments. With the ongoing shift towards competency-based education and experiential learning, simulation-based tools provide a safe and effective platform to develop clinical skills before real-world application.

Key market drivers
Several factors are propelling the growth of the healthcare simulation market. Firstly, there is a growing emphasis on clinical competency and patient safety, particularly as healthcare systems seek to minimize errors and improve outcomes. Simulation-based training provides learners with hands-on experiences in controlled environments, allowing them to practice decision-making, develop critical thinking skills, and refine their techniques without compromising patient welfare.

Technological advancements are also playing a significant role in market growth. The incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing simulation systems. These technologies enhance the realism of training scenarios and enable adaptive learning environments that adjust to the individual needs of the user. Moreover, innovations in data analytics are allowing educators to track performance and make informed improvements to the training process.

Additionally, regulatory frameworks and accreditation requirements are evolving to include simulation-based methodologies in healthcare education. Many countries have introduced mandatory training components using simulations, ensuring that healthcare graduates meet minimum skill and safety benchmarks before they enter clinical settings.

Market restraints and challenges
Despite its growth potential, the healthcare simulation market faces several limitations. High development and implementation costs remain a primary concern for institutions. Advanced simulation tools, especially high-fidelity models, require significant investment not only in hardware and software but also in regular maintenance, updates, and instructor training.

Another challenge is the shortage of skilled simulation educators. Effective simulation-based training depends heavily on facilitators who can manage scenarios, debrief learners, and integrate simulations into broader educational goals. However, there is a lack of adequately trained instructors worldwide, which restricts the scale and quality of simulation programs.

Supply chain disruptions and pricing pressure from traditional teaching methods also hinder the market. Budget-constrained educational institutions may opt for less expensive alternatives, limiting the adoption of costly, technology-intensive solutions.

Emerging opportunities and market trends
As healthcare systems evolve, numerous opportunities are emerging within the simulation sector. One major growth avenue is the expansion into emerging economies, where there is increasing investment in healthcare infrastructure and education. Countries in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and parts of the Middle East are adopting simulation technologies to bridge gaps in medical training and improve service delivery.

Cross-sector collaborations are also shaping the future of healthcare simulation. Partnerships between medical institutions and technology providers are creating custom simulation solutions tailored to local clinical needs. For example, integrating telehealth into simulation programs allows professionals to gain practical experience in delivering remote healthcare—an increasingly vital skill in the post-pandemic world.

Consumer preferences are shifting towards personalized and self-directed learning, prompting the development of simulation tools that cater to different learning styles and competencies. This evolution underscores the importance of flexible, modular training solutions that can be easily adapted for diverse healthcare environments.

Segmentation analysis
By product type
The market includes a variety of products such as manikins, virtual patients, software platforms, and simulation training equipment. Manikins continue to dominate due to their ability to mimic human physiology and provide tactile feedback, especially in training scenarios involving resuscitation, trauma care, and emergency response.

Meanwhile, software-based simulations are gaining momentum as they incorporate advanced features like AI, VR, and performance analytics. These systems enable fully immersive training experiences and allow for remote access, making them ideal for distance learning and international collaboration.

Simulation training equipment, including auxiliary tools like monitors, procedural kits, and task trainers, also represent a significant segment, supporting blended learning environments and enhancing the realism of training exercises.

By modality
Healthcare simulations are categorized into high-fidelity, low-fidelity, and hybrid simulations. High-fidelity simulations replicate real-life medical scenarios in depth, often featuring programmable manikins with physiological responses. They are especially valuable in surgical and critical care training.

Low-fidelity simulations are more basic, offering cost-effective solutions for foundational skill development. These are widely used in early-stage education and in institutions with limited resources. Hybrid simulations combine both high- and low-fidelity elements to provide comprehensive training experiences.

By application
Medical education remains the largest application segment. Universities and medical schools are increasingly turning to simulation tools to supplement theoretical instruction with practical training. This is driven by the need for students to demonstrate clinical competencies prior to real-world exposure.

Surgical training is another fast-growing application, particularly with the rise of minimally invasive and robotic procedures. Simulation allows surgeons to refine techniques and improve precision before operating on actual patients.

Other application areas include patient safety, risk management, and skill development, where simulation serves as a critical tool for enhancing decision-making and reducing errors in clinical practice.

By end user
The healthcare simulation market caters to diverse end users, including hospitals, academic institutions, military organizations, and other healthcare facilities. Hospitals lead in market share due to their ongoing need for staff training, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance.

Academic institutions are also key contributors, driven by the increasing number of medical programs and the adoption of simulation-based curricula. The military sector uses simulations to train personnel in combat and trauma care scenarios, often in remote or field environments.

Within these institutions, the primary users are healthcare professionals, medical students, paramedics, and nurses, each utilizing simulation tools for training, certification, and continuing education. Exactitude Consultancy

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should establish a public database of medical device labels that is accessible to patients, healthcare providers, and consumers. This database would help physicians make informed decisions, allow researchers to study the safety of devices, and better protect manufacturers from enforcement actions, experts said in a recent viewpoint article published in JAMA.

Although there is a database for drug labeling information called FDA Label for drugs, there is no similar database for devices, except for high-risk devices that receive premarket approval (PMA). FDA does not publish labels for the majority of moderate to low-risk devices cleared through the 510(k) pathway.

This lack of labeling deprives the public of a valuable resource that could “improve decision-making, innovation, and public health,” wrote David Simon, a law professor at Northeastern University and co-director of the Amy J. Reed Collaborative for Medical Device Safety in Boston, and colleagues.

The authors noted that “despite typically being lower risk than PMA devices, 510(k) devices can still be quite risky such as a recently cleared brain implant. Serious safety concerns may also emerge over time, as with transvaginal mesh.”

The authors note that centralizing the information could improve physicians’ decision-making about which device to choose for patients. According to the authors, physicians report “limited knowledge about the device review process.”

It would also empower consumers to make better decisions about their healthcare. “Although patient interest in this information may be stronger when the procedure involves sedation (e.g., knee replacement) than when it involves routine care (e.g., an x-ray), patients should be able to decide for themselves what is important.”

The database would also allow researchers to better recognize safety signals, evaluate the impact of existing regulations, and foster innovation. Much like drug labels, device labels can offer insights into the safety signals researchers might find in adverse event reports and insurance claims databases. Additionally, this information can be utilized to monitor firm innovations over time, assess how firms respond to regulatory changes, and uncover innovative applications using artificial intelligence and machine learning software.

A centralized database can also provide better protection for device manufacturers against legal actions, especially when risk information is included in the labeling. “Lawsuits against manufacturers for failing to disclose or misrepresenting risk information are based on the information provided in the device label. Firms could link device label data to other adverse events databases to identify potential manufacturer misconduct, billing irregularities, and personal injury claims.”

The authors state that creating the database would require only a relatively small amount of effort. Once the device is approved, the proposed labeling could be added to the database along with instructions for use. The authors also recommend that the database should keep a record of the chronological changes to the labels. RAPS.org

The Embassy of the United States of America is pleased to deliver US medical equipment to the Sfax Medical Simulation and Research Center, underscoring American leadership in building a modern global health cooperation model grounded in scientific integrity, transparency, sovereignty, and accountability. This shipment, valued at 1.5 million TND, marks the second batch of US-donated medical equipment in 2025, for a total donation valued at 2.9 million TND.

This initiative was facilitated through the US Embassy-funded, $5 million Health Center for University Research Excellence & Sustainability (CURES) project. While the CURES Project officially concluded in September 2024, the Sfax Medical School and US partners maintain active collaboration.

The delivery ceremony took place at the Sfax Medical School. US Embassy Deputy Economic Counselor Jason Monks, who attended the delivery ceremony, said, “This new US donation will drive innovation, reduce costs, and help build a stronger, healthier future. This donation builds on centuries of cooperation between the United States and Tunisia across a range of fields.”

Today’s donation will provide students and healthcare professionals at Sfax Medical School with practical, hands-on training in a realistic, simulated setting that closely replicates realistic medical scenarios.

This donation also reinforces America’s 227-year friendship with the Tunisian people, their government, and public health institutions, and positions the Sfax Simulation and Research Center as a regional leader in simulation-based learning and research commercialization. The US donation also highlights the enduring importance of educational exchange and international collaboration in advancing healthcare innovation. U.S. Embassy in Tunisia

The medical device testing services market size is expected to be worth around USD 23.5 billion by 2034 from USD 9.5 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 9.5% during the forecast period 2025 to 2034.

Growing emphasis on patient safety and regulatory compliance drives the expansion of the medical device testing services market, which encompasses a broad range of evaluations including biological, chemical, mechanical, and electrical testing. These services play a critical role in verifying device safety, efficacy, and performance across various applications such as implantable devices, diagnostic equipment, and surgical instruments.

In June 2023, TUV SUD inaugurated a new laboratory in Minnesota, accredited to ISO 17025 standards, to specialize in biological and chemical testing for medical devices, highlighting the industry’s focus on precision and reliability. This market benefits from stringent global regulatory frameworks requiring comprehensive pre-market and post-market testing to ensure compliance. Opportunities arise from the introduction of advanced testing methodologies, including in vitro diagnostics and biocompatibility assessments, which enhance risk management and accelerate product approvals.

Recent trends reveal increasing adoption of automation and digital technologies to improve testing accuracy and turnaround times. Additionally, the integration of sustainability principles in testing protocols offers competitive advantages by reducing environmental impacts. Medical device manufacturers increasingly rely on third-party testing providers to navigate complex regulations and reduce time-to-market. The rise of innovative device categories such as wearable and connected health devices further fuels demand for specialized testing services.

Growing investments in healthcare infrastructure and expanding healthcare access also stimulate market growth. With continuous technological advancements and evolving regulatory landscapes, the medical device testing services market is positioned for sustained expansion, supporting safer and more effective healthcare solutions worldwide.

Product type analysis
The biocompatibility tests segment claimed a market share of 44.7%. Increasing regulatory requirements for safety and efficacy drive this expansion as manufacturers prioritize ensuring their devices do not cause adverse biological reactions. Growing adoption of implantable and wearable medical devices further fuels demand for thorough biocompatibility assessments.

Advances in testing methodologies and materials science improve accuracy and reduce testing time, encouraging more companies to invest in these services. Moreover, stringent guidelines from authorities such as the FDA and ISO necessitate comprehensive biocompatibility evaluations, positioning this segment for sustained growth.

Application analysis
The clinical held a significant share of 61.5% due tothe increasing importance of human trials in device validation. Rising awareness about patient safety and effectiveness of medical devices mandates extensive clinical evaluations before market approval. Advances in clinical trial designs and digital health technologies facilitate more efficient and comprehensive data collection, enhancing the appeal of clinical testing services.

Additionally, the expanding pipeline of innovative medical devices, particularly in areas such as cardiology and orthopedics, drives demand for clinical testing. Regulatory bodies increasingly emphasize clinical evidence, further propelling this segment’s growth.

Drivers
Stringent regulatory requirements are driving the market
The increasingly stringent regulatory requirements for medical devices worldwide are a significant driver for the medical device testing services market. Regulatory bodies like the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandate thorough evaluation before devices can be marketed. In 2023, the FDA authorized 36 PMA (Premarket Approval) applications for high-risk medical devices, along with 2,180 PMA supplements, indicating the volume of rigorous pre-market scrutiny that necessitates extensive testing data to demonstrate safety and effectiveness.

Similarly, the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) in the European Union, which fully came into effect in 2021, has heightened the requirements for clinical evaluation and post-market surveillance, requiring more comprehensive testing. These demanding regulatory landscapes compel medical device manufacturers to utilize independent testing services to ensure compliance and gain market access, thereby fueling the growth of this market.

Restraints
Complexity of medical devices is restraining the market
The growing complexity of modern medical devices is becoming a restraint on the medical device testing services market. As devices evolve with advanced software, sensors, and connectivity features, the testing process becomes more specialized. Standard testing procedures are no longer sufficient. Instead, a tailored and highly technical approach is often required. This shift in testing demand puts pressure on service providers to update their capabilities. Not all facilities can quickly adapt, which limits their ability to test these high-tech devices effectively and consistently.

In September 2023, the FDA issued final guidance on “Cybersecurity in Medical Devices: Quality System Considerations and Content of Premarket Submissions.” This document highlights the growing need for cybersecurity assessments in device testing. As digital integration expands, so does the need for specialized knowledge and tools. Testing labs must invest in new technologies and cybersecurity expertise. However, acquiring such capabilities takes time and resources. This can create short-term gaps in capacity, potentially delaying market entry for some complex medical devices.

Opportunities
Globalization of medical device manufacturing creates growth opportunities
The globalization of medical device manufacturing is driving strong growth in the medical device testing services market. As production expands across multiple countries, companies must comply with the unique regulatory standards of each region. This creates a growing need for specialized testing services. These services help manufacturers ensure compliance with varying safety and quality regulations. Global firms increasingly rely on testing providers with multi-regional expertise. This shift is boosting the demand for testing partners familiar with international medical device regulations.

According to MedTech Europe, over 15,900 patent applications were filed with the European Patent Office (EPO) in 2023 under the medical technology category. This figure highlights the rapid pace of innovation within the industry. New product development across borders requires thorough regulatory testing before market entry. As companies launch advanced devices globally, the need for standardized and region-specific testing is rising. This trend supports continued expansion of the testing services sector, especially those offering cross-border regulatory compliance solutions.

Impact of macroeconomic / geopolitical factors
Macroeconomic conditions and geopolitical factors can influence the medical device testing services market. Economic uncertainty might cause manufacturers to optimize spending, potentially affecting the volume or type of testing they pursue. Conversely, government initiatives promoting the medical device industry or emphasizing product safety can bolster the demand for thorough evaluation.

Geopolitical tensions could disrupt global supply chains, indirectly affecting the production and subsequent testing of devices. However, the fundamental need for regulatory compliance, as highlighted by the FDA’s ongoing premarket review processes with thousands of submissions annually, tends to provide a baseline demand for these services. The continuous advancement in medical technology and the consistent need to meet stringent global standards suggest a resilient market for these services, adapting to broader economic and political landscapes.

Current US tariffs could have a nuanced impact on the medical device testing services market. If tariffs increase the cost of imported medical devices or testing equipment, this might indirectly affect the overall expenditure on bringing devices to market, potentially influencing the budget allocated for testing. However, the mandatory nature of much of the testing required for regulatory approval, such as the FDA’s PMA process for high-risk devices, means that manufacturers will likely still need to invest in these services.

Tariffs could also incentivize domestic testing capabilities, potentially shifting some demand towards US-based testing providers. While tariffs might introduce some cost considerations for manufacturers, the essential requirement for rigorous testing to ensure safety and gain market access remains a primary driver, suggesting the market for these services will likely adapt to these economic policies.

Regional analysis
North America is leading the medical cevice testing services market
North America dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 41.2% owing to stringent regulatory requirements enforced by the FDA and the increasing complexity of medical devices. The FDA’s ongoing emphasis on pre-market approval and the need for comprehensive testing to ensure safety and efficacy drive the demand for these services. Furthermore, the high volume of medical device manufacturing in the US necessitates robust testing procedures. As of April 2024, clinicaltrials.gov listed a significant number of active clinical trials related to medical devices, indicating substantial ongoing development requiring testing services

The Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period
Asia Pacific is expected to grow with the fastest CAGR owing to the expanding medical device manufacturing sector in the region, particularly in countries like China and India. Additionally, the increasing adoption of stringent quality standards and regulatory requirements in several Asia Pacific countries is expected to boost the demand for these services. For instance, in March 2024, Stryker established a new testing facility in India to enhance their research and development operations, indicating a growing focus on rigorous testing within the region. This trend, coupled with a large and diverse patient pool, suggests a strong upward trajectory for the market. Market.us

India’s active Covid-19 cases have crossed the 4,000 mark, with Kerala remaining the most affected state followed by Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Delhi, according to the Union Health Ministry data released on Tuesday.

There are 4,026 active cases in India and five fresh deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours.

Since January this year, 37 deaths have been reported in the country.

There were 257 active patients in the country on May 22. The figure rose to 3,395 by May 31 and subsequently to 4,026 cases.

Presently, Kerala has 1,446 active cases, the highest in the country followed by Maharashtra with 494, Gujarat with 397 and Delhi with 393 cases.

Five deaths —one each in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal and two deaths in Maharashtra — have been reported in the last 24 hours, according to the data.

Official sources on May 31 stated that the Covid-19 situation in India is being closely monitored while stressing that the severity of infections is low, with most of the patients being under home care and that there was no cause for worry.

Director General of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Dr Rajiv Behl on Monday stated that genome sequencing of samples in West and South have shown that the variants leading to the current rise in cases are not severe and are sub variants of Omicron only.

The four variants that we have found are subvariants of Omicron — LF.7, XFG, JN.1 and NB. 1.8.1. The first three have been found in more number of cases, he said.

“We have been closely monitoring the situation. At this moment overall, we should monitor, be vigilant but there is no cause to worry,” Dr Behl had said. PTI

The global healthcare logistics market is projected to reach approximately USD 217.3 billion by 2034, rising from USD 93.8 billion in 2024. This growth reflects a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% between 2025 and 2034. The expansion is fueled by the urgent need for efficient, reliable, and timely delivery of medical products, including pharmaceuticals, devices, and equipment. As healthcare systems worldwide evolve, logistics systems must adapt to meet patient and provider demands with precision and speed.

A key driver of this growth is the digital transformation of the healthcare supply chain. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), digital tools improve processes such as procurement, planning, warehousing, and distribution. Real-time tracking systems help logistics teams monitor the location and condition of medical products. These technologies enhance responsiveness and reduce losses, ensuring that critical health supplies reach their destination promptly and in optimal condition.

Traceability remains essential in safeguarding product quality and safety. The WHO highlights that tracking ownership changes and distribution paths helps reduce the risk of counterfeit and substandard products. It also improves recall management and regulatory compliance. Advanced tracking systems allow healthcare providers to verify the origin, authenticity, and storage conditions of medicines and supplies at every point in the supply chain.

The integration of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain is accelerating supply chain innovation. AI improves delivery scheduling and route planning, while IoT monitors storage conditions in real time. Blockchain ensures secure data sharing and strengthens product integrity verification. These technologies collectively improve supply chain transparency, reduce operational risks, and support informed decision-making.

Finally, the sector’s success depends on a skilled workforce and strong regulatory support. Training in both technical and soft skills is necessary for effective technology adoption. Governments also play a critical role by establishing policies that encourage digital adoption, product traceability, and compliance with safety standards. Collaboration between public agencies and private stakeholders ensures that logistics systems remain resilient and scalable.

The healthcare logistics sector is experiencing rapid growth supported by digital innovation, traceability, advanced technologies, workforce development, and regulatory alignment. These components are enabling a more efficient and patient-focused global healthcare delivery system.

Segmentation analysis
The global healthcare logistics market is segmented by product into pharmaceutical products and medical devices and equipment. In 2024, the pharmaceutical products segment held the largest market share of 68.10%. This dominance is mainly due to the rising global demand for drugs, vaccines, and biologics. These products require specialized logistics solutions, such as cold-chain transport and real-time monitoring systems. Growth in chronic diseases, vaccination programs, and biopharmaceutical innovations continue to drive demand. Government regulations and ongoing development of over 9,000 medicines globally are further strengthening this segment’s growth.

In terms of components, the hardware segment leads the global healthcare logistics market. This is driven by the increasing adoption of automated storage systems, RFID tracking, and IoT-enabled temperature monitoring devices. These solutions are essential for cold-chain logistics and secure handling of sensitive medical products. The growing use of precision medicine and biologics has accelerated the need for real-time tracking tools. AI and automation in warehouse operations also boost supply chain efficiency, making hardware investments critical for regulatory compliance and product integrity.

By mode, outsourcing dominates the healthcare logistics market with a 58.9% share in 2024. This growth is fueled by rising dependence on third-party logistics (3PL) providers that offer temperature-controlled transport, inventory solutions, and compliance expertise. Pharmaceutical firms outsource to reduce operational costs and access advanced technologies. Outsourcing enables companies to focus on core competencies while ensuring timely, safe, and efficient distribution through digital tracking, blockchain systems, and real-time alerts.

The outbound logistics segment held the highest share in the logistics type category in 2024. It includes product delivery from manufacturers to hospitals, pharmacies, and patients. The segment’s growth is supported by increasing demand for e-commerce healthcare, direct-to-patient models, and real-time route tracking. Cold-chain transport and AI-based delivery optimization are critical enablers. With more healthcare services shifting toward home-based care, the need for timely and secure distribution of medical supplies continues to strengthen the outbound logistics segment.

The cold-chain supply chain was the dominant supply chain model in 2024. This is driven by the rising demand for temperature-sensitive drugs, vaccines, and biologics. Cold-chain logistics ensure product safety, quality, and regulatory compliance during transport. The rise of gene therapy and global immunization initiatives further supports this growth. Advanced IoT monitoring, predictive AI, and insulated storage are being widely adopted. Emerging markets are rapidly investing in cold-chain infrastructure, reinforcing this segment’s dominance in maintaining a reliable and efficient healthcare supply network.

Regional analysis
North America continues to lead the global healthcare logistics market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and widespread use of modern technologies. The region shows high demand for pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, and medical devices. These elements enhance healthcare efficiency and product availability. The presence of leading pharmaceutical manufacturers also supports growth. Additionally, the region benefits from strong public and private sector support for healthcare innovations, contributing to a mature logistics network across the United States and Canada.

Cold-chain logistics in North America plays a critical role in sustaining its market dominance. The region has a robust infrastructure for transporting temperature-sensitive healthcare products. This includes vaccines, specialty drugs, and biologics. These products require strict temperature control to maintain their safety and effectiveness. The availability of specialized cold-storage solutions and efficient temperature-monitoring systems helps prevent product spoilage. These systems also ensure regulatory compliance and strengthen supply chain reliability across the healthcare sector.

In the United States, growth in biopharmaceuticals and personalized medicine has boosted the need for advanced supply chains. These treatments require precise delivery conditions and technology-integrated logistics systems. AI, blockchain, and IoT-based tracking tools are increasingly adopted. They support real-time monitoring and improve inventory accuracy. E-commerce expansion and the rise in direct-to-patient healthcare models have also driven demand for last-mile delivery and automated warehouse operations in the region.

Strict regulatory frameworks further strengthen the healthcare logistics sector in North America. Agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforce Good Distribution Practices (GDP). These guidelines ensure the integrity of medical shipments and help prevent counterfeiting or spoilage. Investments in logistics innovation and the presence of top logistics providers enhance market competitiveness. As a result, North America remains a global leader in healthcare logistics with a resilient and efficient distribution ecosystem. Market.us

The “catastrophic” freeze on US funding for malaria has halted prevention programmes across Africa and also threatens to stall advances in genomic research, says Jane Carlton, director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute.

The US President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) is one of numerous USAID-supported programmes to see its funding terminated under US President Donald Trump’s sweeping reforms this year.

From eco-friendly bacterial pellets that kill mosquito larvae, to gene-drive mosquitoes that suppress wild populations, scientists are developing an arsenal of promising new technologies to combat malaria.

“But without sustained funding, even the best tools stall”, says Carlton, warning that a retreat from funding could jeopardise decades of progress. SciDev.Net

The European Union is set to curb Chinese medical device manufacturers’ access to public procurement contracts in the bloc, according to a person familiar with the matter.

EU countries are due to vote on the proposed measure as early as Monday, said the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss private deliberations.

The move, if backed by member states, would be the first action taken by the EU based on its International Procurement Instrument, a 2022 law that’s meant to promote reciprocity in access to public procurement markets. Implementation of the restrictions could open a new front with China, just as the EU seeks to strike a balance in its relationship with Beijing while navigating US President Donald Trump’s tariff war.

A spokesperson for the European Commission, the EU’s executive arm, didn’t immediately reply to a request for comment.

The EU launched an investigation into China’s procurement of medical devices last April, with the probe finding in January that Beijing discriminated against foreign firms. Consultations failed to find alternative solutions, Bloomberg previously reported.

Beijing’s focus on local and state-oriented procurement in medical technologies has increased in recent years, as authorities across the country included strict domestic product requirements for many categories of device. The shift turned a €1.3 billion trade deficit in these goods for China in 2019 into a €5.2 billion surplus just one year later, according to data cited in an EU report published last April. The focus of the investigation wasn’t to reverse that trend but to enable fair competition.

The EU has long argued that Beijing has been pushing market-distorting measures and practices to implement its “Made in China” policy and its target of achieving 85% domestic market share for Chinese companies producing “core medical device components” by 2025. The target is 70% for higher-end devices.

The IPI allows the commission to impose various restrictions on firms seeking to participate in procurements, ranging from score adjustments in tenders to an outright ban from procurement contracts. Bloomberg

It’s never a dull moment in hospitals across India and with Covid-19 infections rising across the country, hospitals are seeing a rise in footfalls in the outpatient departments (OPDs). India’s coronavirus burden is rising on a daily basis with many patients rushing to the hospital, fearing the worst.

Several states in India are recording a spike in coronavirus infections — on Monday (June 2), India’s active Covid-19 cases stand at 3,961 with 203 new cases being added only on Sunday. That’s not it; the country is also recording a rise in Covid-related deaths — four have been reported since Sunday.

So, what’s going on? How bad is the situation?

India’s Covid burden keeps rising
As of Monday (June 2), the country’s active Covid cases are 3,961 — more than a 15-fold increase in just 10 days, according to the data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Health authorities attribute the rapid increase to the emergence of new, more transmissible Omicron sub-variants, specifically NB.1.8.1 and NF.7 , predominantly affecting southern and western India.

Data shows that the most cases have been detected in Kerala — 1,435 cases — whereas Maharashtra comes in second with 506 Covid cases. Delhi with 483 infections comes in third while Gujarat recorded 338 cases, coming in fourth. West Bengal (331), Karnataka (253), Tamil Nadu (189) and Uttar Pradesh (157) are the other states where Covid infections are being recorded in high numbers.

Along with the rising infections, Covid deaths are also being reported in the country. Four deaths — one each in Delhi, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu have been reported across the country in the past 24 hours.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director General Dr Rajiv Bahl was quoted as telling the media that the rise in cases began in southern states, followed by western and now northern regions. The ICMR is closely monitoring the situation through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), he said.

He further added, “The variants we have sequenced from South and West India are not much severe. Four variants have been discovered — LF.7 series, XFG series, JN.1 series and NB.1.8.1 series in the same order. We are sequencing the samples from other areas to check for more new variants… The cases are not very severe and people should not worry, but only stay vigilant.”

OPD admissions in hospitals increase
And as a result of the increasing Covid cases, patient footfall at OPDs is rising by at least three to four times. Dr Pradeep Bajad, senior consultant, pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine at Faridabad-based Amrita Hospital, told News18, “At present, we are not seeing a surge in ICU admissions due to Covid-19 directly. However, we are witnessing a marked increase in OPD footfall, with patient visits increasing by nearly three to four times in the past 10 days.”

Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, senior consultant, internal medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, also noted a rise in patients visiting the OPD. He also stated that most of those who are visiting the OPD are complaining of fever, sore throat, and upper respiratory symptoms, which he calls routine and manageable.

Dr Arup Halder, consultant pulmonologist at CMRI Hospital, Kolkata, also said that there was a significant rise in OPD consultations. People with fever and cold-like symptoms are walking in to get themselves checked out, he was quoted as saying.

The rising infections have also got hospital authorities on high alert; they are ramping up preventive measures such as increased Covid testing and preparation of hospital beds. In fact, many hospitals across the country are preparing isolation wards amid the Covid spike. For instance, in Haryana, officials have been asked to ensure hospitals establish dedicated flu corners and maintain adequate isolation beds, oxygen supplies, PPE kits, N95 masks, antibiotics, and testing kits.

At the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, special wards for Covid-19 patients, including ICU beds and high-dependency units, have been activated. A similar picture is prevalent in Karnataka wherein hospitals are preparing bigger and better isolation wards.

Covid symptoms to watch out for
Doctors note that most of the patients being diagnosed with Covid have the usual symptoms — fever, sore throat, cough, cold, headache, body ache and fatigue. However, this time there’s one specific symptom that could help patients discern if they are infected and that’s having diarrhoea, especially watery diarrhoea.

“Many are coming in with diarrhoea. Painless, watery stools for a day or two followed by severe lethargy or fatigue. Lethargy can persist for weeks post-discharge from the hospital. So, any patient who presents with unexplained diarrhoea, check for Covid-19,” Dr Chatterjee was quoted as telling News18.

Doctors note that this change may be due to the virus’s altered behaviour in the body or its interaction with the gut’s immune system.

Dr Charudatt Vaity, director of critical care at Fortis Hospital Mulund, also noted that an increasing number of patients with runny diarrhoea were testing positive for Covid.

Doctors calls for extra vigilance
But despite the rise in cases, doctors are of the opinion that the situation is still under control and that there is no need to panic. However, medical experts have called for an increase in vigilance. Dr Sanjay Jain, dean research, PGIMER, said, “Most new variant cases are mild, but vigilance is essential, especially to protect the vulnerable.”

Even Union Minister of State for Health and AYUSH (Independent Charge), Prataprao Jadhav, assured that the Centre is fully prepared to handle any situation that may arise. “Both our Central Health Department and the AYUSH Ministry are fully alert and closely monitoring the situation across all states. We have spoken with the respective Health and AYUSH Secretaries, as well as other concerned ministers,” Jadhav was quoted as telling news agency ANI.

Soumya Swaminathan , former chief scientist at the World Health Organisation (WHO), also echoed similar sentiments. She has urged the public to stay cautious but not to panic. Speaking to News18, she said that the current trends do not indicate a return to the devastating waves of 2020 or 2021.

“Covid or SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus, is another respiratory virus, like the many others that are circulating amongst us human beings in the world today. It has been around for five years now. It’s, of course, constantly mutating and changing, like other viruses,” she said.

She further added, “What you’re seeing now is a mild disease mostly. Even though people are testing and reporting positivity, you find that hospitalisations are rare.” FIRSTPOST

The Donald Trump administration has cancelled USD 766 million awarded to drugmaker Moderna Inc to develop a vaccine against potential pandemic influenza viruses, including the H5N1 bird flu.

The company said it was notified Wednesday that the Health and Human Services Department had withdrawn funds awarded in July 2024 and in January to pay for development and purchase of its investigational vaccine.

The funds were awarded through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, or BARDA, a programme that focuses on medical treatments for potential pandemics.

The new vaccine, called mRNA-1018, used the same technology that allowed development and rollout of vaccines to fight Covid-19 in record time.

Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has expressed deep skepticism regarding the safety of mRNA vaccines.

The cancellation came as Moderna announced positive interim results from an early-stage trial of the vaccine that targeted H5 bird flu virus, tested in 300 healthy adults.

“While the termination of funding from HHS adds uncertainty, we are pleased by the robust immune response and safety profile observed in this interim analysis,” the company said in a statement.

H5N1 bird flu viruses spilled from wild bird into cattle in the US last year, infecting hundreds in several states.

At least 70 people in the US have been sickened by bird flu infections, mostly mild. One person died.

Scientists fear that continued mutation of the virus could allow it to become more virulent or spread more easily in people, with the possibility that it could trigger a pandemic.

Moderna received USD 176 million in July 2024 and USD 590 million in January.

The January award would have supported a late-stage clinical trial that could have determined the vaccine’s efficacy against pandemic viruses, including bird flu, a company spokesman said. CNBCTV18