COVID-19: latest updates (archive)

HumanCorporateCOVID-19

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) published latest updates on its activities during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

EMA is no longer updating this page.
DATEUPDATEMORE
INFORMATION
06/06/2023The video recording is available of EMA's last regular COVID-19 and other public health emergencies press briefingEMA regular press briefing on public health emergencies
05/06/2023EMA is holding its last regular press briefing on COVID-19 and other public health emergencies on Tuesday 6 June 2023EMA regular press briefing on public health emergencies
25/05/2023EMA's CHMP recommended converting the conditional marketing for Nuvaxovid to standard marketing authorisationNuvaxovid
25/05/2023EMA's CHMP recommended extending the shelf life of Nuvaxovid from 9 to 12 months Nuvaxovid
25/05/2023EMA published clinical data for COVID-19 Vaccine Valneva supporting its use as a booster in adults aged 18 to 50Clinical data (login required)
17/05/2023EMA published clinical data for Evusheld supporting its use to treat COVID-19 in adults and adolescentsClinical data (login required)
03/05/2023EMA published clinical data for Evusheld supporting its use to prevent COVID-19 in adults and adolescentsClinical data (login required)
02/05/2023EMA published clinical data for VidPrevtyn Beta supporting its use as a vaccine in adults Clinical data (login required)
26/04/2023EMA's CHMP recomended an extension of indication for Spikevax to include use of its adapted BA.4-5 version as a booster in children aged 6 to 11Meeting highlights from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) 24 - 26 April 2023
26/04/2023EMA's CHMP recommended an extension of indication for Ronapreve to include people aged 12 and older with a negative antibody test who are receiving OxygenMeeting highlights from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) 24 - 26 April 2023
30/03/2023The European Commission authorised Bimervax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine HIPRA) Bimervax
30/03/2023EMA's CHMP recommended authorising Bimervax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine HIPRA) as a booster in people aged 16 years and olderEMA recommends approval of Bimervax as a COVID 19 booster vaccine
21/03/2023EMA's CHMP started evaluating the marketing authorisation application for Bimervax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine HIPRA) 
14/03/2023EMA published clinical data for Spikevax supporting the use of its adapted BA.1 version as a booster in children aged 6 to 11Clinical data (login required)
23/02/2023EMA's CHMP recommended authorising COVID-19 Vaccine Valneva as a booster in adults aged 18 to 50COVID-19 Vaccine (inactivated, adjuvanted) Valneva
23/02/2023EMA published clinical data supporting the use of Vaxzevria as a booster doseClinical data (login required)
22/02/2023EMA's CHMP approved a new manufacturing site for the active substance of NuvaxovidNuvaxovid
17/02/2023EMA published updated information for COVID-19 Vaccine Valneva, with an increase in its approved shelf lifeCOVID-19 Vaccine (inactivated, adjuvanted) Valneva
15/02/2023The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 and other public health emergencies press briefingEMA regular press briefing on public health emergencies
14/02/2023EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19 and other public health emergencies on Wednesday 15 February 2023EMA regular press briefing on public health emergencies
09/02/2023EMA published the assessment report for Spikevax supporting the extension of indication for use of its adapted BA.1 version as a booster in children aged 6 to 11Spikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
03/02/2023EMA published assessment reports following its review of the risk of heavy menstrual bleeding with Comirnaty and Spikevax

Comirnaty

Spikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)

03/02/2023EMA published clinical data supporting the addition of a new strength of Comirnaty for use in children aged 6 months to 4 yearsClinical data (login required)
02/02/2023EMA published updated product information for Veklury, with an increase in its approved shelf lifeVeklury
27/01/2023EMA's CHMP recommended converting the conditional marketing authorisation for Paxlovid to standard marketing authorisationPaxlovid
26/01/2023EMA published clinical data supporting the use of COVID-19 Vaccine Valneva in adults aged 18 to 50Clinical data (login required)
25/01/2023EMA published updated product information for COVID-19 treatment Paxlovid, with an increase in its approved shelf lifePaxlovid
10/01/2023The European Commission authorised the conversion of the conditional marketing authorisation for Jcovden to standard marketing authorisationJcovden (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen)
09/01/2023EMA published updated product information for COVID-19 treatment Xevudy (sotrovimab), with an increase in its approved shelf lifeXevudy
22/12/2022EMA published clinical data supporting the authorisation of the adapted BA.1 version of SpikevaxClinical data (login required)
16/12/2022EMA published the assessment report for Spikevax supporting the authorisation of its adapted BA.1 versionSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
16/12/2022EMA stopped the evaluation of Olumiant as a COVID-19 treatment after the developer, Eli Lilly, withdrew from the processMeeting highlights from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) 12-15 December 2022
16/12/2022The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 and other public health emergencies press briefingEMA regular press briefing on public health emergencies
15/12/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising both Spikevax and its adapted BA.1 version for use as a booster in children aged 6 to 11 yearsSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
15/12/2022EMA's CHMP recommended converting the conditional marketing authorisation for Jcovden to standard marketing authorisationJcovden (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen)
13/12/2022EMA published the assessment report for Spikevax supporting its use as a booster in adolescents aged 12 to 18Spikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
12/12/2022EMA published updated product information for COVID-19 treatment Regkirona (regdanvimab), with an increase in its approved shelf lifeRegkirona
12/12/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19 and other public health emergencies, on Friday 16th December 2022EMA regular press briefing on public health emergencies
09/12/2022EMA's Emergency Task Force (ETF) issued a statement on the effectiveness on monoclonal antibodies against emerging strains of COVID-19ETF warns that monoclonal antibodies may not be effective against emerging strains of SARS-CoV-2
08/12/2022EMA published the last monthly safety report on COVID-19 vaccines 
07/12/2022EMA published the assessment report supporting the authorisation of an adapted version of ComirnatyComirnaty
06/12/2022EMA's Emergency Task Force (ETF) published a statement on use of adapted vaccines for initial vaccinationETF concludes that bivalent original/Omicron BA.4-5 mRNA vaccines may be used for primary vaccination
05/12/2022EMA published updated information on COVID-19 Vaccine Valneva, with an increase in its approved shelf lifeCOVID-19 Vaccine (inactivated, adjuvanted) Valneva
30/11/2022EMA published the public assessment report for COVID-19 Vaccine VidPrevtyn BetaVidPrevtyn Beta
28/11/2022EMA published updated information on COVID-19 Vaccine Valneva, with an increase in its approved shelf lifeCOVID-19 Vaccine (inactivated, adjuvanted) Valneva
28/11/2022EMA published the assessment report for Spikevax supporting its extension of indication for use in children aged 6 months to 5 yearsSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
25/11/2022EMA published the assessment report supporting the authorisation of an additional adapted version of ComirnatyComirnaty
25/11/2022EMA published the assessment report for Comirnaty supporting its extension of indication for use in children aged 6 months to 4 yearsComirnaty
25/11/2022EMA published the assessment report for Comirnaty supporting its extension of indication for use as a booster for children aged 5 to 11Comirnaty
24/11/2022The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 and other public health emergencies press briefingEMA regular press briefing on public health emergencies
18/11/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19 and other public health emergencies, on Thursday 24th November 2022EMA regular press briefing on public health emergencies
14/11/2022EMA published clinical data supporting the extension of indication for Spikevax to include use in children aged 6 months to 5 yearsClinical data (login required)
11/11/2022The European Commission authorised the COVID-19 vaccine VidPrevtyn BetaVidPrevtyn Beta
10/11/2022EMA published clinical data supporting the extension of indication for Nuvaxovid to include use in adolescents aged 12 to 17Clinical data (login required)
10/11/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising the COVID-19 vaccine VidPrevtyn Beta for use as a booster in adults vaccinated with an mRNA or adenoviral vector vaccineEMA recommends approval of VidPrevtyn Beta as a COVID 19 booster vaccine
10/11/2022EMA published new safety updates for
COVID-19 vaccines
 
10/11/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising an adapted version of Comirnaty as a booster for children aged 5 to 11Comirnaty
09/11/2022EMA published clinical data on the risks of myocarditis after vaccination with ComirnatyClinical data (login required)
09/11/2022EMA published clinical data supporting the use of Nuvaxovid as a booster dose for adults who have received the same or another COVID-19 vaccine for their initial vaccinationClinical data (login required)
09/11/2022EMA published updated product information for Comirnaty, with additional information on the use of booster doses in individuals from 12 years of ageComirnaty
31/10/2022The European Commission authorised the conversion of the conditional marketing authorisation for Vaxzevria to standard marketing authorisationVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
28/10/2022EMA published clinical data supporting the authorisation of an adapted version of ComirnatyClinical data (login required)
27/10/2022EMA published a visual summary of COVID-19 vaccines, including their platforms, strains, uses and target populations 
26/10/2022The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 and monkeypox press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19 and monkeypox
25/10/2022EMA published clinical data supporting the use of Comirnaty as a booster dose for children aged 5 to 11Clinical data (login required)
21/10/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19 and monkeypox, on Wednesday 26 October 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19 and monkeypox
21/10/2022The European Commission authorised an additional adapted version of SpikevaxSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
19/10/2022EMA's CHMP recommended extending the use of Comirnaty and Spikevax to include children from six months of ageEMA recommends approval of Comirnaty and Spikevax COVID-19 vaccines for children from 6 months of age
19/10/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising an additional adapted version of Spikevax in vaccinated people aged 12 and overEMA recommends approval of second adapted Spikevax vaccine
18/10/2022EMA's CHMP will hold an extraordinary meeting on 19 October to discuss ongoing COVID-19 proceduresExtraordinary meeting of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP): 19 October 2022
17/10/2022EMA started evaluating the renewal of the conditional marketing authorisation for JcovdenJcovden (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen)
14/10/2022EMA's CHMP  recommended converting the conditional marketing authorisation for Vaxzevria to standard marketing authorisationVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
12/10/2022EMA published updated product information for Vaxzevria, with an increase in its approved shelf lifeVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
11/10/2022The European Commission authorised the conversion of the conditional marketing authorisation for Comirnaty to standard marketing authorisationComirnaty
06/10/2022EMA published new safety updates for
COVID-19 vaccines
 
04/10/2022The European Commission issued a decision renewing the conditional marketing authorisation for NuvaxovidNuvaxovid
04/10/2022EMA published updated product information for COVID-19 treatment Paxlovid, with an increase in its approved shelf lifePaxlovid
04/10/2022The European Commission authorised the conversion of the conditional marketing authorisation for Spikevax to standard marketing authorisation 
03/10/2022EMA published the assessment report for Veklury supporting its extension of indication to include children with COVID-19 who need supplemental oxygen, or are at risk of severe diseaseVeklury
03/10/2022EMA started a rolling review for the use of an adapted version of Comirnaty in children aged 5 to 11Comirnaty
26/09/2022EMA's CHMP started evaluating an application for the authorisation of an additional adapted version of SpikevaxSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
20/09/2022The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 and monkeypox press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19 and monkeypox
16/09/2022EMA's CHMP recommended extending the use of Veklury to include treating children with COVID-19 needing supplemental oxygen, or risking severe disease

Meeting highlights from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) 12-15 September 2022

16/09/2022EMA's CHMP recommended extending the use of Evusheld to include treating adults and adolescents with COVID-19 who do not require supplemental oxygen

Meeting highlights from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) 12-15 September 2022

16/09/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising the use of Comirnaty as a booster dose for children aged 5 to 11Comirnaty
16/09/2022EMA's CHMP recommended converting the conditional marketing authorisations for Comirnaty and Spikevax to standard marketing authorisations EMA recommends standard marketing authorisations for Comirnaty and Spikevax COVID-19 vaccines
15/09/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19 and monkeypox, on Tuesday 20 September 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19 and monkeypox
13/09/2022EMA's CHMP approved a new manufacturing site for the active substance of COVID-19 Vaccine ValnevaCOVID-19 Vaccine (inactivated, adjuvanted) Valneva
13/09/2022The European Commission authorised an adapted version of COVID-19 vaccine ComirnatyComirnaty
12/09/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising an additional adapted version of Comirnaty in vaccinated people aged 12 and over Adapted vaccine targeting BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron variants and original SARS-CoV-2 recommended for approval
08/09/2022EMA published a revised safety update for COVID-19 vaccines 
06/09/2022EMA and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control issued recommendations on the use of the authorised adapted COVID-19 vaccines for vaccination campaigns in the EU

ECDC-EMA statement on booster vaccination with Omicron adapted bivalent COVID-19 vaccines

02/09/2022The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 and monkeypox press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19 and monkeypox
02/09/2022The European Commission authorised adapted versions of COVID-19 vaccines Comirnaty and Spikevax

Comirnaty

Spikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)

01/09/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising the use of Nuvaxovid as a booster dose for adults who have received the same or another COVID-19 vaccine for their initial vaccinationNuvaxovid
01/09/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising two adapted versions of COVID-19 vaccines Comirnaty and Spikevax in vaccinated people aged 12 and overFirst adapted COVID-19 booster vaccines recommended for approval in the EU
30/08/2022EMA's CHMP started evaluating an application for the authorisation of an adapted version of ComirnatyComirnaty
30/08/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19 and monkeypox, on Friday 2 September 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19 and monkeypox
29/08/2022EMA published clinical data on the use of a booster dose of Spikevax in adolescents aged 12 to 18Clinical data (login required)
26/08/2022EMA published additional clinical data supporting the marketing authorisation of VekluryClinical data (login required)
25/08/2022EMA published updated product information for Spikevax to include use as a booster dose for adolescents from 12 years of ageSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
23/08/2022EMA published assessment reports for Comirnaty supporting the use of its booster doses in adolescentsComirnaty
23/08/2022EMA's CHMP will hold an extraordinary meeting on 1 September to discuss two applications for adapted mRNA COVID-19 vaccinesExtraordinary meeting of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP): 1 September 2022
18/08/2022EMA's CHMP started evaluating the application for a conditional marketing authorisation for COVID-19 vaccine SkycovionEMA starts review of conditional marketing authorisation application for Skycovion COVID-19 vaccine
12/08/2022EMA's CHMP approved a new manufacturing site for VaxzevriaVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
12/08/2022The European Commission granted a full marketing authorisation for VekluryVeklury
10/08/2022EMA published updated product information for Comirnaty following an increase in its approved shelf lifeComirnaty
09/08/2022EMA started a rolling review for a version of Comirnaty adapted to the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and to its Omicron subvariants BA.4/5Comirnaty
04/08/2022EMA published the assessment report for Vaxzevria supporting the introduction of its booster doseVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
03/08/2022EMA published a revised safety update for COVID-19 vaccines 
02/08/2022EMA published updated product information for COVID-19 Vaccine Valneva following an increase in its approved shelf lifeCOVID-19 Vaccine (inactivated, adjuvanted) Valneva
01/08/2022EMA published the assessment report for Nuvaxovid supporting its extension of indication to include adolescents aged 12 to 17Nuvaxovid
01/08/2022EMA published 6-month follow-up data on the efficacy, safety and tolerability of two doses of Comirnaty in adolescents aged 12 to 15Clinical data (login required)
29/07/2022EMA published updated product information for Regkirona (regdanvimab), with an increase in its approved shelf lifeRegkirona
27/07/2022EMA is reviewing available data on sabizabulin, a COVID-19 treatment developed by Veru, to support possible national decisions on early useEMA reviewing data on sabizabulin for COVID-19
22/07/2022EMA's CHMP started evaluating an application for the authorisation of an adapted version of ComirnatyComirnaty
22/07/2022EMA's CHMP started evaluating an application for the authorisation of an adapted version of SpikevaxSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
22/07/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising the use of Spikevax as a booster dose for adolescents from 12 years of age who have had Spikevax as their initial course of vaccinationSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
22/07/2022EMA's CHMP approved a new manufacturing site for SpikevaxSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
22/07/2022EMA's CHMP recommended granting a full marketing authorisation for Veklury Veklury
21/07/2022EMA published clinical data supporting a booster dose of Comirnaty in adults who received a different COVID-19 vaccine during their initial course of vaccinationClinical data (login required)
21/07/2022EMA published updated product information for Spikevax to include that the vaccine can remain stable for 12 months if stored under certain conditions.Spikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
18/07/2022EMA started evaluating the renewal of the conditional marketing authorisation for SpikevaxSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
18/07/2022EMA started evaluating the renewal of the conditional marketing authorisation for NuvaxovidNuvaxovid
18/07/2022EMA started evaluating the renewal of the conditional marketing authorisation for ComirnatyComirnaty
18/07/2022EMA started evaluating the use of Comirnaty in children aged 6 months to 4 yearsComirnaty
14/07/2022EMA published the paediatric investigation plan for COVID-19 Vaccine ValnevaPaediatric investigation plan
14/07/2022EMA published new safety updates for COVID-19 vaccines 
11/07/2022EMA and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control recommended considering second booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines in people aged 60 to 79 and those at risk of severe diseaseECDC and EMA update recommendations on additional booster doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines
08/07/2022EMA published the assessment report for COVID-19 Vaccine ValnevaCOVID-19 Vaccine (inactivated, adjuvanted) Valneva
07/07/2022The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
06/07/2022EMA published clinical data supporting the marketing authorisation of COVID-19 treatment PaxlovidClinical data (login required)
05/07/2022EMA's CHMP approved a new manufacturing site for the active substance of COVID-19 vaccine NuvaxovidNuvaxovid
01/07/2022EMA published the risk management plan for COVID-19 Vaccine ValnevaCOVID-19 Vaccine (inactivated, adjuvanted) Valneva
01/07/2022ICMRA held a workshop on the global regulatory response to the Omicron variant, focusing on adapted COVID-19 vaccinesGlobal regulators agree on key principles on adapting vaccines to tackle virus variants
01/07/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 7 July 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
27/06/2022The European Commission authorised
COVID-19 Vaccine Valneva
COVID-19 Vaccine (inactivated, adjuvanted) Valneva
23/06/2022EMA's CHMP recommended extending the use of COVID-19 vaccine Nuvaxovid to include adolescents aged 12 to 17EMA recommends authorisation of Nuvaxovid for adolescents aged 12 to 17
23/06/2022EMA recommended granting a marketing authorisation for COVID-19 Vaccine ValnevaEMA recommends Valneva’s COVID-19 vaccine for authorisation in the EU
22/06/2022EMA published clinical data supporting the use of Spikevax in children aged 6 to 11Clinical data (login required)
20/06/2022ICMRA published a report summarising the outcomes of its regulatory workshop on COVID-19 observational studies and real-world data, held in May 2022Global regulators work towards strengthening collaboration on observational research beyond COVID-19 pandemic
17/06/2022EMA started a rolling review for a version of Spikevax adapted to provide better protection against SARS-CoV-2 variantsStart of rolling review for adapted Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine
17/06/2022EMA published new safety updates for COVID-19 vaccines 
16/06/2022EMA published clinical data supporting the marketing authorisation of COVID-19 vaccine NuvaxovidClinical data (login required)
15/06/2022EMA started a rolling review for a version of Comirnaty adapted to provide better protection against SARS-CoV-2 virus variantsStart of rolling review for adapted Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine
15/06/2022EMA published clinical data supporting a booster dose of Spikevax in adults who received a different COVID-19 vaccine during their initial course of vaccinationClinical data (login required)
10/06/2022EMA published data on the immunogenicity of the COVID-19 vaccine Spikevax against the Delta variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virusClinical data (login required)
10/06/2022EMA published the list of critical medicines for COVID-19 whose supply and demand the European medicines regulatory network is closely monitoringEMA adopts first list of critical medicines for COVID-19
02/06/2022The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
02/06/2022EMA published the clinical data supporting the use of a booster dose of Comirnaty in adolescents aged 12 to 15Clinical data (login required)
01/06/2022EMA's CHMP approved a new manufacturing site for the active substance of JcovdenJcovden (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen)
30/05/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 2 June 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
30/05/2022EMA's CHMP approved a new manufacturing site for COVID-19 vaccine JcovdenJcovden (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen)
20/05/2022EMA started evaluating the use of a booster dose of Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine, Nuvaxovid, in adultsNuvaxovid
19/05/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising the use of Vaxzevria as a booster dose for adults who have received Vaxzevria or an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine for their initial vaccinationVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
18/05/2022EMA’s CHMP started evaluating the application for a conditional marketing authorisation for COVID-19 Vaccine Valneva 
18/05/2022EMA started evaluating an application for the use of a booster dose of Pfizer/BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine, Comirnaty, in children aged 5 to 11 yearsComirnaty
17/05/2022ICMRA and the World Health Organization (WHO) updated their statement intended to help healthcare professionals increase patients’ confidence in COVID-19 vaccinesInternational regulators and WHO: support healthcare professionals to enhance public confidence in COVID-19 vaccines
12/05/2022EMA published the clinical data supporting the marketing authorisation of COVID-19 treatment Xevudy (sotrovimab)Clinical data (login required)
12/05/2022EMA published new safety updates for COVID-19 vaccines 
10/05/2022EMA's CHMP started evaluating an application to extend the use of Spikevax to include children from 6 months to 5 years of ageSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
05/05/2022The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
05/05/2022EMA published the risk management plan for AstraZeneca's COVID-19 treatment, EvusheldEvusheld
29/04/2022EMA extended its fee waiver on scientific advice for COVID-19 treatments and vaccines   
29/04/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 5 May 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
29/04/2022EMA updated its information on Janssen’s COVID-19 vaccine with its new name, JcovdenJcovden (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen)
28/04/2022EMA published the assessment report for AstraZeneca's COVID-19 treatment, EvusheldEvusheld
22/04/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising the use of Comirnaty as a booster dose for adults who have had another COVID-19 vaccineComirnaty
13/04/2022EMA published updated product information for COVID-19 treatment Regkirona (regdanvimab), with an increase in its approved shelf lifeRegkirona
13/04/2022EMA updated its guidance on how to submit COVID-19 related individual case safety reports (ICSRs) to EudraVigilanceDetailed guidance on ICSRs in the context of COVID-19 - Validity and coding of ICSRs
13/04/2022EMA published the clinical data supporting the extension of Comirnaty’s indication to include its use in children aged 5 to 11Clinical data (login required)
13/04/2022EMA published new safety updates for COVID-19 vaccines 
11/04/2022EMA published the clinical data supporting the renewal of the conditional marketing authorisation for the COVID-19 treatment Veklury (remdesivir)Clinical data (login required)
06/04/2022EMA and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control provided advice on using second booster doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccinesECDC and EMA issue advice on fourth doses (second boosters) of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines
01/04/2022The guidance on regulatory expectations for veterinary medicines during the COVID-19 pandemic has been updated in line with the new Veterinary Medicinal Products Regulation.Regulatory expectations and flexibility (veterinary medicines)
30/03/2022EMA started evaluating an application to extend the use of Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine, Nuvaxovid, to adolescents aged 12 to 17 Nuvaxovid
30/03/2022EMA’s CHMP started evaluating the application for a conditional marketing authorisation of Sanofi Pasteur's COVID-19 vaccine, VidprevtynCOVID-19 vaccines
30/03/2022The European Commission authorised the COVID-19 treatment EvusheldEvusheld
29/03/2022EMA’s CHMP approved changes to increase manufacturing capacity of Comirnaty, and to extend the vaccine’s shelf lifeComirnaty
29/03/2022EMA’s CHMP started a rolling review of PHH-1V, a COVID-19 vaccine developed by HIPRA Human Health S.L.U.EMA starts rolling review of COVID-19 Vaccine HIPRA (PHH-1V)
24/03/2022EMA recommended granting a marketing authorisation for AstraZeneca's COVID-19 prevention treatment Evusheld (tixagevimab / cilgavimab)EMA recommends authorisation of COVID-19 medicine Evusheld
22/03/2022EMA published clinical data for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen supporting the use of a booster dose of the vaccineClinical data (login required)
17/03/2022The video recording is available of EMA's latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
17/03/2022EMA published new safety updates for COVID-19 vaccines 
15/03/2022EMA’s CHMP started evaluating the marketing authorisation application for AstraZeneca's COVID-19 treatment Evusheld (tixagevimab / cilgavimab), following the start of its rolling review in October 2021COVID-19 treatments
15/03/2022EMA published clinical data for Kineret (anakinra) supporting its extension of indication to include treating adults with COVID-19 at risk of severe respiratory failureClinical data (login required)
14/03/2022EMA published the clinical data supporting the marketing authorisation of COVID-19 treatment Ronapreve (casirivimab / imdevimab)Clinical data (login required)
11/03/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 17 March 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
11/03/2022EMA published the clinical data supporting the marketing authorisation of COVID-19 treatment Regkirona (regdanvimab)Clinical data (login required)
10/03/2022EMA published further clinical data on COVID-19 treatment Veklury (remdesivir)Clinical data (login required)
07/03/2022EMA published clinical data for RoActemra (tocilizumab) supporting its use in treating COVID-19Clinical data (login required)
07/03/2022EMA published the clinical data supporting the authorisation of booster doses of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine Spikevax in adultsClinical data (login required)
03/03/2022The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
28/02/2022EMA published updated product information for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen with an increase in its approved shelf lifeCOVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
25/02/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 3 March 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
25/02/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising the use of Spikevax as a booster dose for adults who have had another COVID-19 vaccineSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
25/02/2022EMA's CHMP recommended reducing the interval between primary and booster dose vaccination with COVID-19 vaccine Spikevax from six to three months Spikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
25/02/2022EMA's CHMP approved increased manufacturing capacity for COVID-19 vaccine SpikevaxSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
24/02/2022EMA's CHMP recommended authorising booster doses of Pfizer/ BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty in adolescents from 12 years of ageEMA recommends authorisation of booster doses of Comirnaty from 12 years of age
24/02/2022EMA's CHMP recommended extending the use of COVID-19 vaccine Spikevax to include children aged 6 to 11 EMA recommends approval of Spikevax for children aged 6 to 11
21/02/2022EMA published clinical data for Veklury (remdesivir) supporting its December 2021 extension of indication to include treating adults who do not require supplemental oxygen and who are at increased risk of severe COVID-19Clinical data (login required)
18/02/2022EMA published the assessment report for Pfizer's COVID-19 treatment, PaxlovidPaxlovid
17/02/2022The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
17/02/2022EMA published new safety updates for COVID-19 vaccines 
16/02/2022EMA published updated product information for COVID-19 mRNA vaccines Comirnaty and Spikevax used during pregnancy and while breastfeedingComirnaty

 

Spikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)

 

11/02/2022EMA's safety committee is assessing reported cases of menstrual disorders with COVID-19 vaccines Comirnaty and SpikevaxMeeting highlights from the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) 7 - 10 February 2022
11/02/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 17 February 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
10/02/2022EMA updated the guidance on preparing risk management plans for COVID-19 vaccines 
08/02/2022EMA started evaluating an application for the use of a booster dose of Pfizer/BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty in adolescents aged 12 to 15 years EMA evaluating data on booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty in adolescents
03/02/2022The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
02/02/2022EMA published the full risk management plan for Pfizer's COVID-19 treatment, PaxlovidPaxlovid
02/02/2022EMA published the clinical data supporting the authorisation of booster doses of Pfizer/BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty in adults. Health Canada also published these data at the same timeClinical data (login required)
28/01/2022EMA published the full risk management plan for Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine, NuvaxovidNuvaxovid
28/01/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 3 February 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
28/01/2022The European Commission authorised the COVID-19 treatment Paxlovid, following evaluation by EMAPaxlovid
27/01/2022EMA recommended granting a conditional marketing authorisation for Pfizer's COVID-19 treatment, Paxlovid (PF 07321332 / ritonavir)COVID-19: EMA recommends conditional marketing authorisation for Paxlovid
25/01/2022EMA published the clinical data supporting the extension of indication for Spikevax to include use in adolescents aged 12 to 17. Health Canada also published these dataClinical data (login required)
24/01/2022EMA's CHMP approved increased manufacturing capacity for AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine VaxzevriaIncrease in manufacturing capacity for Vaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
21/01/2022ICMRA published a report on the global regulatory response to the Omicron variantInternational regulators’ recommendations on COVID-19 vaccines and the Omicron variant
20/01/2022EMA published new safety updates for COVID-19 vaccines 
19/01/2022EMA published assessment reports for its review of the risk of myocarditis and pericarditis with Comirnaty and Spikevax

Comirnaty

Spikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)

18/01/2022EMA published updated product information for Vaxzevria to include new data on the known side effect, thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndromeVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
18/01/2022The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
18/01/2022EMA published an update on the use of mRNA vaccines during pregnancyCOVID-19: latest safety data provide reassurance about use of mRNA vaccines during pregnancy
14/01/2022EMA updated the risk management plan for COVID-19 Vaccine JanssenCOVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
14/01/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Tuesday 18 January 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
14/01/2022EMA's PRAC recommended updating the product information for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen and Vaxzevria with information on the very rare side effects transverse myelitis and thrombosis with thrombocytopeniaMeeting highlights from the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) 10 - 13 January 2022
13/01/2022ICMRA held a workshop to discuss the global regulatory response to the Omicron variant Global regulators discuss path towards regulatory alignment on response to Omicron variant
11/01/2022The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
11/01/2022EMA published an update on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against the Omicron variantPreliminary data indicate COVID-19 vaccines remain effective against severe disease and hospitalisation caused by the Omicron variant
10/01/2022EMA started evaluating a conditional marketing authorisation application for Pfizer's COVID-19 treatment PaxlovidEMA receives application for conditional marketing authorisation for Paxlovid (PF-07321332 and ritonavir) for treating patients with COVID-19
10/01/2022EMA published the assessment report supporting its advice on the use of Paxlovid to treat COVID-19Article 5(3) opinion: Use of Paxlovid (PF-07321332 and ritonavir) for treating
07/01/2022EMA published the full assessment report for Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine, NuvaxovidNuvaxovid
07/01/2022EMA published the paediatric investigation plan for Pfizer's COVID-19 treatment PaxlovidPaediatric investigation plan
07/01/2022EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Tuesday 11 January 2022EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
05/01/2022EMA published the assessment report for Veklury (remdesivir) supporting its extension of indication to include adults at increased risk of severe COVID-19Veklury
04/01/2022The European Commission issued a decision renewing the conditional marketing authorisation for COVID-19 vaccine JanssenAuthorised COVID-19 vaccines
22/12/2021EMA published the conditions of use for Paxlovid, following the CHMP's advice on its use to treat COVID-19Article 5(3) opinion: Use of Paxlovid (PF-07321332 and ritonavir) for treating COVID-19
22/12/2021EMA published the assessment report for Kineret supporting its use for COVID-19Kineret
21/12/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
21/12/2021EMA updated its key facts on COVID-19 vaccines, covering protection against virus variants, vaccination in children, boosters and other topicsCOVID-19 vaccines: key facts
20/12/2021The European Commission authorised the use of Kineret (anakinra) to treat COVID-19, following evaluation by EMAKineret
20/12/2021The European Commission authorised the COVID-19 vaccine Nuvaxovid, following evaluation by EMANuvaxovid
20/12/2021EMA recommended granting a conditional marketing authorisation for Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine, NuvaxovidEMA recommends Nuvaxovid for authorisation in the EU
17/12/2021The European Commission authorised the COVID-19 treatment Xevudy (sotrovimab), following evaluation by EMAXevudy
17/12/2021ICMRA published the outcome of a review of how regulators have been overseeing good clinical practice and good manufacturing practice remotely during the pandemicInternational regulators’ reflections on remote approaches to GCP and GMP regulatory oversight during COVID-19 pandemic
17/12/2021CHMP recommended extending the use of COVID-19 treatment Veklury (remdesivir) to include adults at increased risk of severe COVID-19Meeting highlights from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) 13-16 December 2021
16/12/2021EMA's CHMP approved increased manufacturing capacity for the authorised COVID-19 vaccines Comirnaty, Spikevax and COVID-19 Vaccine JanssenIncrease in manufacturing capacity for COVID-19 vaccines from Janssen, Moderna and BioNTech/Pfizer
16/12/2021EMA's CHMP issued advice on the use of Paxlovid to treat COVID-19, and started a more comprehensive rolling reviewEMA issues advice on use of Paxlovid (PF-07321332 and ritonavir) for the treatment of COVID-19
16/12/2021EMA's CHMP recommended authorising Xevudy (sotrovimab) to treat COVID-19COVID-19: EMA recommends authorisation of antibody medicine Xevudy
16/12/2021EMA's CHMP recommended extending the use of Kineret (anakinra) to include treating adults with COVID-19 at risk of severe respiratory failureEMA recommends approval for use of Kineret in adults with COVID-19
15/12/2021EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Tuesday 21 DecemberEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
15/12/2021EMA published the assessment report supporting its recommendation to extend the use of BioNTech/Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty to children aged 5 to 11Comirnaty
15/12/2021EMA's CHMP concluded that a booster dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen can be given at least two months after the first doseCOVID-19 Vaccine Janssen: EMA recommendation on booster dose
14/12/2021EMA is reviewing updated study results on Lagevrio (molnupiravir) as part of the ongoing marketing authorisation application and following interim recommendations on useEMA reviewing new data on effectiveness of Lagevrio (molnupiravir) for the treatment of COVID-19
13/12/2021EMA published updated product information for Regkirona with an increase in the approved shelf lifeRegkirona
13/12/2021EMA published updated product information for Comirnaty with an increase in the approved shelf lifeComirnaty
10/12/2021EMA published updated product information for BioNTech/Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty, following the assessment of a signal of myocarditis and pericarditisComirnaty
10/12/2021The International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA) urged the pharmaceutical industry and other researchers to continue focusing 
on developing COVID-19 therapeutics for all populations
International regulators stress continued need for COVID-19 therapeutics
09/12/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
09/12/2021EMA published updated product information for Spikevax with an increase in the approved shelf lifeSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
09/12/2021EMA published new safety updates for Comirnaty, COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, Spikevax and Vaxzevria 
07/12/2021EMA and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control provided recommendations on using different COVID-19 vaccines, both during initial vaccination courses and as boostersEMA and ECDC recommendations on heterologous vaccination courses against COVID-19
06/12/2021EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 9 DecemberEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
06/12/2021The International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA) discussed regulatory responses to global health emergencies, including COVID-19ICMRA high-level meeting on global health emergencies and regulatory approaches
06/12/2021EMA’s CHMP recommended authorising the use of RoActemra (tocilizumab) to treat adults with severe COVID-19EMA recommends approval for use of RoActemra in adults with severe COVID-19
03/12/2021The International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA) and World Health Organization (WHO) published a review of regulatory flexibilities in response to COVID-19ICMRA and WHO map out flexibilities used by regulators to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic
03/12/2021EMA published the assessment report for its review of Lagevrio (molnupiravir)Article 5(3) opinions: Use of Lagevrio (also known as molnupiravir or MK 4482) for treating COVID-19
03/12/2021EMA's PRAC provided an update on the risk of myocarditis and pericarditis with mRNA vaccinesMeeting highlights from the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) 29 November - 2 December 2021
02/12/2021EMA’s CHMP started a rolling review of VLA2001, a COVID-19 vaccine being developed by ValnevaEMA starts rolling review of Valneva’s COVID-19 vaccine (VLA2001)
01/12/2021EMA's CHMP approved increased manufacturing capacity for VaxzevriaIncrease in manufacturing capacity for COVID-19 vaccine from AstraZeneca
30/11/2021EMA published the full assessment report for COVID-19 treatment RegkironaRegkirona
26/11/2021EMA published the presentation slides and video recording from its public meeting on COVID-19 vaccines on 25 November 2021Public stakeholder meeting on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics in the EU
26/11/2021EMA published the assessment report supporting its recommendations concerning a booster dose of SpikevaxSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
25/11/2021EMA’s CHMP recommended extending the use of Comirnaty, the COVID-19 vaccine developed by BioNTech and Pfizer, to children aged 5 to 11Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine: EMA recommends approval for children aged 5 to 11
23/11/2021EMA’s CHMP started evaluating the marketing authorisation application for Lagevrio (molnupiravir)EMA receives application for marketing authorisation for Lagevrio (molnupiravir) for treating patients with COVID 19
23/11/2021EMA's CHMP will hold an extraordinary meeting on 25 November to discuss the use of Comirnaty in children aged 5 to 11Extraordinary meeting of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP): 25 November 2021
22/11/2021EMA started evaluating an application for a booster dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen to be given at least two months after the first doseEMA evaluating data on booster dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
19/11/2021EMA concluded that Lagevrio (molnupiravir) can be used to treat adults with COVID-19 at risk of developing severe diseaseEMA issues advice on use of Lagevrio (molnupiravir) in treatment of COVID-19
19/11/2021EMA is reviewing available data on Paxlovid (PF-07321332 / ritonavir), a COVID-19 treatment developed by Pfizer, to support possible national decisions on early useEMA starts review of Paxlovid for treating patients with COVID-19
19/11/2021EMA published the full assessment report and risk management plan for COVID-19 treatment RonapreveRonapreve
18/11/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
18/11/2021EMA’s CHMP started evaluating the marketing authorisation application for Xevudy, a monoclonal antibody developed by GlaxoSmithKline to treat COVID-19EMA receives application for marketing authorisation for Xevudy (sotrovimab) for treating patients with COVID-19
17/11/2021EMA started evaluating a conditional marketing authorisation application for Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine, Nuvaxovid (also known as NVX-CoV2373)EMA receives application for conditional marketing authorisation of Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine, Nuvaxovid
15/11/2021EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 18 NovemberEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
12/11/2021The European Commission authorised the COVID-19 treatments Regkirona (regdanvimab) and Ronapreve (casirivimab / imdevimab), following evaluation by EMACOVID-19: EMA recommends authorisation of two monoclonal antibody medicines
11/11/2021EMA’s CHMP recommended the authorisation of COVID-19 treatments Ronapreve (casirivimab / imdevimab) and Regkirona (regdanvimab) COVID-19: EMA recommends authorisation of two monoclonal antibody medicines
11/11/2021EMA published new safety updates for Comirnaty, COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, Spikevax and Vaxzevria 
10/11/2021The European Commission issued a decision renewing the conditional marketing authorisation for VaxzevriaAuthorised COVID-19 vaccines
10/11/2021EMA started evaluating an application to extend the use of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax, to children aged 6 to 11EMA starts evaluating use of COVID-19 vaccine Spikevax in children aged 6 to 11
08/11/2021EMA is reviewing available data on the use of molnupiravir, an oral antiviral to treat COVID-19, to support possible national decisions on early useCOVID-19: EMA and Heads of Medicines Agencies update on molnupiravir
04/11/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
03/11/2021EMA published the clinical data supporting the extension of indication for Comirnaty to include use in children aged 12 to 15. Health Canada also published these data at the same timeClinical data (login required)
03/11/2021The European Commission issued a decision renewing the conditional marketing authorisation for Comirnaty Authorised COVID-19 vaccines
02/11/2021EMA ended the rolling review of the COVID-19 treatment bamlanivimab and etesevimab after the developer, Elli Lilly, decided to withdraw from the processEMA ends rolling review of the antibodies bamlanivimab and etesevimab for COVID-19 following withdrawal by Lilly
29/10/2021EMA's PRAC began assessing further data on the risk of myocarditis and pericarditis with Comirnaty and Spikevax, and found no link between COVID-19 vaccines and multisystem inflammatory syndromeMeeting highlights from the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) 25-28 October 2021
29/10/2021EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 4 NovemberEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
26/10/2021EMA will hold a fourth public stakeholder meeting on 25 November to provide an update on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics in the EUPublic stakeholder meeting on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics in the EU
25/10/2021EMA’s CHMP concluded that a booster dose of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax, may be considered in adults at least six months after the second doseSpikevax: EMA recommendation on booster
25/10/2021EMA’s CHMP started a rolling review of molnupiravir, an oral antiviral medicine developed by Merck Sharp & Dohme and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics, to treat COVID-19 in adultsCOVID-19: EMA starts rolling review of molnupiravir
21/10/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
20/10/2021EMA published updated product information for Vaxzevria, to include new vaccine efficacy data Vaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
18/10/2021EMA started evaluating an application to extend the use of BioNTech/Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine, Comirnaty, to include children aged 5 to 11 EMA starts evaluating use of COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty in children aged 5 to 11
18/10/2021EMA’s CHMP approved two new manufacturing sites and an updated ready-to-use formulation for Comirnaty New manufacturing sites and new formulation approved for COVID-19 vaccine from BioNTech/Pfizer
18/10/2021EMA is holding a regular press briefing on COVID-19, on Thursday 21 OctoberEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
15/10/2021EMA published updated product information for Comirnaty, to add a new pharmaceutical form (dispersion for injection) with a new strengthComirnaty
14/10/2021EMA’s CHMP started a rolling review of Evusheld, a combination of two monoclonal antibodies developed by AstraZeneca AB, for the prevention of COVID-19 in adultsEMA starts rolling review of Evusheld (tixagevimab and cilgavimab)
13/10/2021EMA published a direct healthcare professional communication on the risks of thrombocytopenia (including immune thrombocytopenia) after vaccination against COVID-19 with VaxzevriaVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
13/10/2021EMA published a direct healthcare professional communication on the risks of immune thrombocytopenia and venous thromboembolism after vaccination with COVID-19 Vaccine JanssenCOVID-19 Vaccine Janssen: Risk for immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and venous thromboembolism (VTE)
12/10/2021ICRMA members issued a statement to assist global efforts to increase manufacturing capacity for COVID-19 treatments and vaccinesA global approach to regulatory flexibility to increase manufacturing capacity during COVID-19
12/10/2021EMA ended the rolling review of the COVID-19 vaccine CVnCoV after the developer, CureVac AG, decided to withdraw from the processEMA ends rolling review of CVnCoV COVID-19 vaccine following withdrawal by CureVac AG
11/10/2021EMA started evaluating a marketing authorisation application for Ronapreve (casirivimab / imdevimab) to prevent and treat COVID-19 in adults and adolescents from age 12EMA receives application for marketing authorisation for Ronapreve (casirivimab / imdevimab) for treatment and prevention of COVID-19
08/10/2021The Lancet Regional Health Europe published an article by EMA staff on shaping EU medicines regulation after COVID-19

Shaping EU medicines regulation in the post COVID-19 era

Scientific publications

07/10/2021EMA’s CHMP approved an additional manufacturing site for the production of COVID-19 Vaccine JanssenAdditional manufacturing site for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
06/10/2021EMA published new safety updates for Comirnaty, COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, Spikevax and Vaxzevria 
06/10/2021EMA published updated product information for Comirnaty, to include recommendations for additional and booster dosesComirnaty
05/10/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA press briefing to inform on CHMP discussion on booster doses
05/10/2021EMA published updated product information for Spikevax, to include recommendation for extra dose for people with severely weakened immune systemsSpikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)
04/10/2021EMA is holding a press briefing on Tuesday 5 October to provide information on the CHMP's discussion on booster dosesEMA press briefing to inform on CHMP discussion on booster doses
04/10/2021EMA’s CHMP concluded that an extra dose of Comirnaty and Spikevax may be given to people with severely weakened immune systems, and that for Comirnaty a booster dose may be considered at least 6 months after the second dose in adultsComirnaty and Spikevax: EMA recommendations on extra doses and boosters
04/10/2021The European Commission issued a decision renewing the conditional marketing authorisation for SpikevaxAuthorised COVID-19 vaccines
04/10/2021EMA started evaluating a marketing authorisation application for Regkirona (regdanvimab, also known as CT-P59) for treating adult patients with COVID-19 EMA receives application for marketing authorisation for Regkirona (regdanvimab) for treating patients with COVID-19
30/09/2021The European medicines regulatory network extended until the end of 2022 the validity of good manufacturing practice (GMP) and good distribution practice (GDP) certificates, and time-limited manufacturing, import and wholesale authorisations

Regulatory expectations and flexibility (human medicines)

Regulatory expectations and flexibility (veterinary medicines)

27/09/2021EMA started evaluating an application for a booster dose of Spikevax to be given at least 6 months after the second dose 

EMA evaluating data on booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine Spikevax

23/09/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
22/09/2021EMA published updated product information for Janssen with an increase in the approved shelf lifeCOVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
17/09/2021EMA published the assessment reports for its review of the risk of myocarditis and pericarditis with Comirnaty and Spikevax

Comirnaty

Spikevax (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna)

17/09/2021

EMA’s CHMP concluded its further analysis of data on the risk of unusual blood clots linked to low blood platelets with VaxzevriaMeeting highlights from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) 13-16 September 2021
17/09/2021EMA published updated product information for Comirnaty following endorsement of the PRAC’s recommendation by CHMPComirnaty
17/09/2021EMA extended its fee waiver on scientific advice for COVID-19 treatments and vaccines 
15/09/2021EMA published updated product information for Vaxzevria following endorsement of the PRAC’s recommendation by CHMPVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
14/09/2021EMA published updated product information for Comirnaty with an increase in the approved shelf lifeComirnaty
09/09/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
09/09/2021EMA’s CHMP approved additional manufacturing sites for ComirnatyIncrease in manufacturing capacity for COVID-19 vaccine from BioNTech/Pfizer
08/09/2021EMA published new safety updates for Comirnaty, COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, Spikevax and Vaxzevria 
07/09/2021EMA is resuming its fortnightly regular press briefings on Thursday 9 September 2021EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
06/09/2021EMA started evaluating an application for the use of a booster dose of Comirnaty given six months after the second dose in people aged 16 years and olderEMA evaluating data on booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty
03/09/2021
EMA's PRAC is assessing whether there is a risk of rare multisystem inflammatory syndrome following COVID-19 vaccination
Meeting highlights from the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) 30 August – 2 September 2021
02/09/2021
EMA issued a new update on COVID-19 vaccination jointly with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
24/08/2021
EMA’s CHMP approved additional manufacturing sites for Comirnaty and Spikevax
Increase in vaccine manufacturing capacity for COVID-19 vaccines from BioNTech / Pfizer and Moderna
19/08/2021EMA published paediatric investigation plans for several treatments and vaccines for COVID-19Paediatric investigation plans
18/08/2021EMA published the clinical data supporting a renewal of the conditional marketing authorisation for Veklury (remdesivir), an antiviral medicine used to treat COVID-19Clinical data (login required)
16/08/2021EMA's CHMP started evaluating an application to extend the use of RoActemra (tocilizumab) to include the treatment of COVID-19EMA starts evaluating use of RoActemra in hospitalised adults with severe COVID-19
11/08/2021
EMA published new safety updates for Comirnaty, COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, Spikevax and Vaxzevria
Safety updates for authorised COVID-19 vaccines
06/08/2021
EMA’s PRAC reviewed the latest safety data on COVID-19 vaccines and recommended listing immune thrombocytopenia, dizziness and tinnitus as new side effects in the product information for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
Meeting highlights from the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) 5 August 2021
04/08/2021
EMA issued a new update on COVID-19 vaccination jointly with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
04/08/2021EMA updated its plans for resuming some face-to-face meetings and increasing office presence, starting in October 2021 
30/07/2021
EMA published the clinical data supporting the authorisation of Vaxzevria
Clinical data (login required)
30/07/2021
EMA's CHMP approved an increase in active substance production at the manufacturing sites in the United States for Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax
27/07/2021
EMA published the clinical data supporting the authorisation of COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen. Health Canada also published these data at the same time
Clinical data (login required)
26/07/2021EMA updated its guidance on applying for a rolling review of a COVID-19 vaccine or treatment
 
23/07/2021
EMA's CHMP recommended extending the use of Spikevax to include children aged 12 to 17
22/07/2021
EMA published the updated product information for Comirnaty following endorsement of the PRAC’s recommendation by CHMP
Comirnaty
22/07/2021
EMA’s PRAC considered that a causal relationship between COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen and Guillain-Barré syndrome is possible, after assessing the available data
20/07/2021
EMA’s CHMP started the rolling review of Vidprevtyn, a COVID-19 vaccine developed by Sanofi Pasteur
19/07/2021
EMA’s CHMP will hold an extraordinary meeting on 23 July to evaluate the extension of Spikevax to include children aged 12 to 18
Extraordinary meeting of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP): 23 July 2021
19/07/2021
EMA published the updated product information for Vaxzevria, following CHMP’s approval of PRAC’s recommendation to include a warning about the potential, small risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome
Vaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
19/07/2021
EMA published a direct healthcare professional communication (DHPC) on the risk of capillary leak syndrome occurring after vaccination with COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
Jcovden (previously COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen)
19/07/2021
EMA published a direct healthcare professional communication (DHPC) on the risk of myocarditis and pericarditis occurring after vaccination with Comirnaty and Spikevax
COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines Comirnaty and Spikevax: risk of myocarditis and pericarditis
19/07/2021
EMA's CHMP started evaluating an application to extend the use of Kineret (anakinra) for the treatment of COVID-19
EMA starts evaluating the use of Kineret in adult COVID-19 patients at increased risk of severe respiratory failure
16/07/2021
At their workshop on 24 June 2021, ICMRA members discussed the development of second-generation COVID-19 vaccines and booster doses. A report is available
International regulators work towards alignment on development and authorisation of second-generation COVID-19 vaccines
15/07/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
14/07/2021
EMA published new safety updates for Comirnaty, COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, Spikevax and Vaxzevria
14/07/2021
EMA issued an update on COVID-19 vaccination jointly with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
EMA and ECDC update on COVID-19
13/07/2021EMA published the updated product information for Comirnaty and Spikevax, following endorsement of PRAC’s recommendations by CHMP
09/07/2021
EMA’s PRAC recommended that people who have previously had capillary leak syndrome must not be vaccinated with COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
09/07/2021
EMA’s PRAC recommended listing myocarditis and pericarditis as new side effects in the product information for Comirnaty and Spikevax
Comirnaty and Spikevax: possible link to very rare cases of myocarditis and pericarditis
09/07/2021
EMA provided guidance for marketing authorisation holders on preparing periodic safety update reports (PSURs) for COVID-19 vaccines
08/07/2021
EMA updated the mandate, objectives and rules of procedure of its COVID-19 pandemic Task Force (COVID-ETF)
 
02/07/2021
EMA's CHMP approved a scale-up of the active substance manufacturing process for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen in the Netherlands
01/07/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
28/06/2021
EMA provided procedural guidance on updating the composition of an authorised COVID-19 vaccine to address SARS-CoV-2 variants
25/06/2021
EMA’s CHMP approved a new manufacturing site for COVID‑19 Vaccine Janssen in Italy
Additional manufacturing site for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
22/06/2021
EMA’s CHMP approved new manufacturing sites for Comirnaty in Germany and Switzerland
Two additional manufacturing sites for BioNTech/Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine
18/06/2021
EMA published new safety updates for Comirnaty, COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna and Vaxzevria
Safety updates for authorised COVID-19 vaccines
17/06/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
17/06/2021EMA updated the product information for COVID‑19 Vaccine Moderna in all EU languages to include a new manufacturing siteCOVID-19 Vaccine Moderna
17/06/2021
EMA published paediatric investigation plans for several COVID‑19 treatments and a vaccine under development
Paediatric investigation plans
15/06/2021
EMA updated the guidance on preparing risk management plans for COVID-19 vaccines
 
11/06/2021
Authorities in the EU took precautionary steps to safeguard the quality of COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen: authorities in EU take steps to safeguard vaccine quality
11/06/2021
EMA published the assessment report for its review of sotrovimab in COVID-19 patients
 
11/06/2021
EMA’s CHMP approved a new manufacturing site for COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna in France
Additional manufacturing capacity for Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine
11/06/2021
EMA’s PRAC is continuing its assessment of reports of myocarditis and pericarditis in a small number of people following vaccination with COVID-19 vaccines
COVID-19 vaccines: update on ongoing evaluation of myocarditis and pericarditis
11/06/2021
EMA’s PRAC concluded that people who have previously had capillary leak syndrome must not be vaccinated with Vaxzevria
Vaxzevria: EMA advises against use in people with history of capillary leak syndrome
11/06/2021
ICMRA and the World Health Organization (WHO) updated their statement intended to increase trust and confidence in COVID-19 vaccines
International regulators and WHO address need to boost COVID-19 vaccine confidence
08/06/2021
EMA started evaluating an application to extend the use of COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna to include people aged 12 to 17
EMA evaluating the use of COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna in young people aged 12 to 17
07/06/2021
EMA advised healthcare professionals to consider recommendations by learned societies to manage suspected symptoms of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome
EMA raises awareness of clinical care recommendations to manage suspected thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome
04/06/2021
At their workshop on 10 May 2021, ICMRA members discussed global collaboration and information sharing on COVID-19 real-world evidence and observational studies. A report is available
Advancing international collaboration on COVID-19 real-world evidence and observational studies
03/06/2021
The EU Executive Steering Group has provided recommendations to help EU Member States forecast demand for medicines during this pandemic and similar global health emergencies
EU regulators develop recommendations to forecast demand of medicines
02/06/2021EMA published the updated product information for Comirnaty in all EU languages, following endorsement of the CHMP recommendation by the European CommissionComirnaty
02/06/2021EMA published a direct healthcare professional communication (DHPC) following its additional advice on blood clots and low blood platelets occurring after vaccination with VaxzevriaVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
01/06/2021
EMA recommended approving additional manufacturing capacity for Comirnaty in Belgium
Additional manufacturing capacity for BioNTech/Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine
28/05/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingEMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
28/05/2021EMA's CHMP recommended extending the use of Comirnaty to include children aged 12 to 15
27/05/2021EMA published an open reply to ‘Doctors for COVID ethics’ concerning COVID-19 vaccines
27/05/2021
EMA advised healthcare professionals that there is not enough evidence on whether inhaled corticosteroids benefit non-hospitalised people with COVID-19
Insufficient data on use of inhaled corticosteroids to treat COVID-19
26/05/2021EMA published the updated product information for Vaxzevria in all EU languagesVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
21/05/2021
EMA published a new assessment report for its review of reported cases of blood clots with COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
21/05/2021EMA published a new safety update for VaxzevriaVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
21/05/2021EMA provided further advice on blood clots and low blood platelets occurring after vaccination with VaxzevriaVaxzevria: further advice on blood clots and low blood platelets
21/05/2021EMA concluded that sotrovimab can be used in COVID-19 patients not requiring oxygen and at high risk of progressing to severe diseaseEMA issues advice on use of sotrovimab (VIR-7831) for treating COVID-19
19/05/2021EMA published a paediatric investigation plan for SARS-CoV-2 vaccine recombinant, adjuvanted, a COVID-19 vaccine developed by Sanofi PasteurPaediatric investigation plan
19/05/2021EMA published the updated paediatric investigation plan for Comirnaty to extend its use to include people aged 12 to 15Paediatric investigation plan
17/05/2021EMA's CHMP recommended a change to the approved storage conditions for ComirnatyMore flexible storage conditions for BioNTech/Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine
12/05/2021The video recording is available of EMA’s latest COVID-19 press briefingFirst EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
12/05/2021
EMA published the assessment report for its review of reported cases of blood clots with COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
11/05/2021
EMA implemented additional measures to allow experts to focus on COVID-19 medicines
Additional measures to allow experts to focus on COVID-19 activities
10/05/2021
EMA is holding a press briefing on Wednesday 12 May to provide an update on its most recent activities in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
First EMA regular press briefing on COVID-19
07/05/2021EMA's PRAC reviewed a number of safety signals, including for COVID-19 vaccinesMeeting highlights from the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) 3-6 May 2021
07/05/2021EMA's CHMP started a rolling review of the monoclonal antibody sotrovimab developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir Biotechnology, Inc. for the treatment of COVID-19EMA starts rolling review of sotrovimab (VIR-7831) for COVID-19
06/05/2021EMA published the assessment report of its review of the monoclonal antibody regdanvimab in COVID-19 patients 
04/05/2021EMA’s CHMP started a rolling review of the COVID-19 Vaccine (Vero Cell) Inactivated, developed by Sinovac Life Sciences Co., LtdEMA starts rolling review of COVID-19 Vaccine (Vero Cell) Inactivated
03/05/2021
EMA started evaluating an application to extend the use of Comirnaty to include people aged 12 to 15
EMA starts evaluating use of COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty in young people aged 12 to 15
29/04/2021
EMA's CHMP started evaluating an application to extend the use of immunosuppressant Olumiant (baricitinib) for the treatment of COVID-19
EMA starts evaluating use of Olumiant in hospitalised COVID-19 patients requiring supplemental oxygen
28/04/2021
EMA updated the product information for Vaxzevria in all EU languages to include a new manufacturing site
Vaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
26/04/2021EMA published the assessment report for the CHMP's analysis of benefits and risks of Vaxzevria in different age groups and at different infection rates 
26/04/2021EMA and ECDC launched an initiative to strengthen post-marketing monitoring of the safety, effectiveness and impact of COVID-19 vaccines in the EU EMA and ECDC join forces for enhanced post-marketing monitoring of COVID-19 vaccines in Europe
26/04/2021EMA published a direct healthcare professional communication (DHPC) on how to monitor and report any suspected adverse reactions with COVID-19 Vaccine JanssenCOVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
23/04/2021EMA’s CHMP provided further analysis of the benefits and risks of Vaxzevria in different age groups and at different infection rates, to help inform national decisions on the use of the vaccineAstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine: benefits and risks in context
23/04/2021EMA’s CHMP adopted recommendations to increase COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing capacity and supply in the EUIncrease in vaccine manufacturing capacity and supply for COVID-19 vaccines from BioNTech/Pfizer and Moderna
23/04/2021
EMA published a new safety update for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
21/04/2021
EMA published the updated product information for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, following endorsement of PRAC’s recommendations by CHMP
COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
20/04/2021
EMA published the updated product information for Comirnaty in all EU languages
Comirnaty
20/04/2021EMA’s safety committee (PRAC) concluded that unusual blood clots with low blood platelets should be listed as a very rare side effect with COVID-19 Vaccine JanssenCOVID-19 Vaccine Janssen: EMA finds possible link to very rare cases of unusual blood clots with low blood platelets
16/04/2021EMA updated the product information for Vaxzevria to include a new manufacturing siteVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
16/04/2021
EMA published new safety updates for Comirnaty, COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen and Vaxzevria
 
15/04/2021
EMA updated the product information for Comirnaty and Vaxzevria
Comirnaty

Vaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)

15/04/2021EMA's CHMP started an Article 5(3) review of the monoclonal antibody VIR-7831 to treat COVID-19, to support national authorities who may decide on the use of this medicine for COVID-19 prior to authorisationEMA starts review of VIR-7831 for treating patients with COVID-19
14/04/2021EMA's CHMP started an Article 5(3) review of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria, to provide further context on the risk of very rare blood clots with low blood plateletsAstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine: EMA to provide further context on risk of very rare blood clots with low blood platelets
14/04/2021EMA’s safety committee (PRAC) is reviewing very rare cases of unusual blood clots with low platelets following the use of Janssen’s COVID-19 vaccine in the USACOVID-19 Vaccine Janssen: assessment of very rare cases of unusual blood clots with low platelets continues
13/04/2021
EMA published the assessment report for its review of reported cases of blood clots with AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria
Vaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
13/04/2021
EMA updated the direct healthcare professional communication (DHPC) on how to monitor and report any suspected adverse reactions with AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria
Vaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
09/04/2021EMA published the updated product information for AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine in all EU languages, following endorsement of PRAC’s recommendations by CHMP and the European Commission
08/04/2021EMA published the updated product information for AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine following endorsement of the PRAC’s recommendation by CHMPVaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
07/04/2021EMA reminded healthcare professionals and people receiving AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine to remain aware of the possibility of very rare cases of blood clotsAstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine: updated advice on very rare cases of unusual blood clots
31/03/2021
EMA’s PRAC is continuing its review of reported cases of blood clots with AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine; its preliminary assessment report is available
AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine: review of very rare cases of unusual blood clots continues
30/03/2021EMA published safety updates for Comirnaty, COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna and Vaxzevria 
29/03/2021EMA has extended the availability of free scientific advice for potential COVID-19 treatments and vaccines to 15 September 2021 
29/03/2021EMA published the video recording and presentation slides from its public
meeting on COVID-19 vaccines on 26 March 2021
Public stakeholder meeting: approval, safety monitoring and impact of COVID-19 vaccines in the EU
26/03/2021
EMA updated the product information for AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, to include the Halix manufacturing site and the new name of the product, Vaxzevria
Vaxzevria (previously COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
26/03/2021EMA’s CHMP adopted recommendations to increase COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing capacity and supply in the EUIncrease in vaccine manufacturing capacity and supply for COVID-19 vaccines from AstraZeneca, BioNTech/Pfizer and Moderna
26/03/2021
EMA concluded that regdanvimab can be used in COVID-19 patients not requiring oxygen and at high risk of progressing to severe disease
EMA issues advice on use of regdanvimab for treating COVID-19
26/03/2021
EMA published an open letter in response to questions it had received about COVID-19 vaccines
25/03/2021
EMA’s safety committee (PRAC) is continuing its assessment of reported cases of blood clots with COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca
COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca – Update on ongoing evaluation of blood clot cases
24/03/2021
EMA published the assessment report for its review of the antibody combination bamlanivimab / etesevimab in COVID-19 patients
 
24/03/2021EMA published a direct healthcare professional communication (DHPC) on how to monitor and report any suspected adverse reactions with COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZenecaCOVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca
23/03/2021
EMA published updated product information for COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca in all EU languages, following its review of a signal of blood clots
COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca
22/03/2021EMA concluded a review of the use of ivermectin for the prevention and the treatment of COVID-19EMA advises against use of ivermectin for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 outside randomised clinical trials
22/03/2021
EMA will hold a third public meeting on 26 March 2021 to provide an update on the assessment, approval and safety monitoring of COVID-19 vaccines
Public stakeholder meeting: approval, safety monitoring and impact of COVID-19 vaccines in the EU
19/03/2021
EMA's CHMP endorsed PRAC’s recommendations following review of a signal of blood clots and agreed to update the product information of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca
COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca
18/03/2021EMA published the full assessment report and risk management plan for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen.COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
18/03/2021
EMA’s safety committee (PRAC) concluded its preliminary review of a signal of blood clots in people vaccinated with COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca.
COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca: benefits still outweigh the risks despite possible link to rare blood clots with low blood platelets
16/03/2021EMA published an update on its investigation of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca and thromboembolic events.Investigation of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca and thromboembolic events continues
16/03/2021EMA published a paediatric investigation plan for the COVID-19 vaccine NVX-CoV2373, developed by Novavax CZ AS. 
15/03/2021EMA’s safety committee (PRAC) will meet on 18 March to further discuss the information gathered on COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca and thromboembolic events.EMA’s safety committee continues investigation of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca and thromboembolic events – further update
15/03/2021EMA published guidance on flexibilities to help developers of COVID-19 treatments with packaging and labelling. 
11/03/2021The European Commission authorised the fourth COVID-19 vaccine in the EU, COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, following evaluation by EMA. 
11/03/2021EMA published the clinical data supporting the authorisation of Comirnaty. Health Canada also published these data at the same time.Clinical data (login required)
11/03/2021EMA confirmed that COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca’s can continue to be administered while investigations are ongoing.COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca: PRAC investigating cases of thromboembolic events - vaccine’s benefits currently still outweigh risks - Update
11/03/2021EMA published the assessment report of its review of the REGN-COV2 antibody combination (casirivimab / imdevimab) in COVID-19 patients. 
11/03/2021EMA's CHMP issued a positive opinion for a conditional marketing authorisation for the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Janssen-Cilag International N.V.EMA recommends COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen for authorisation in the EU
11/03/2021EMA's CHMP has started a rolling review of two monoclonal antibodies from Eli Lilly for the treatment of COVID-19.EMA starts rolling review of Eli Lilly antibodies bamlanivimab and etesemivab for COVID-19
10/03/2021EMA is reviewing a batch of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca that has been suspended in some EU countries.COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca: PRAC preliminary view suggests no specific issue with batch used in Austria
10/03/2021The info-card for healthcare professionals on how to report suspected side effects with medicines is now available in all EU languages. 
05/03/2021EMA concluded that bamlanivimab and etesevimab can be used together in COVID-19 patients not requiring oxygen and at high risk of progressing to severe disease.EMA issues advice on use of antibody combination (bamlanivimab / etesevimab)
04/03/2021EMA published safety updates for Comirnaty and COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna. 
04/03/2021EMA’s CHMP has started the rolling review of the COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V (Gam-COVID-Vac), developed by Russia’s Gamaleya National Centre of Epidemiology and Microbiology.EMA starts rolling review of the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine
02/03/2021EMA’s CHMP will hold an extraordinary meeting on 11 March to consider COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen. The aim of the meeting is to conclude the evaluation, if possible.Extraordinary meeting of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP): 11 March 2021
02/03/2021EMA's CHMP started an Article 5(3) review of the monoclonal antibody regdanvimab to treat COVID-19, to support national authorities who may decide on the use of this medicine for COVID-19 prior to authorisation.EMA review of regdanvimab for COVID-19 to support national decisions on early use
02/03/2021
EMA and Health Canada published the full clinical data supporting their authorisations of COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna.
EMA and Health Canada publish clinical data used to support their authorisations of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine
26/02/2021EMA concluded that casirivimab / imdevimab can be used in COVID-19 patients not requiring oxygen and at high risk of progressing to severe disease.EMA issues advice on use of REGN-COV2 antibody combination (casirivimab / imdevimab)
25/02/2021EMA published guidance for developers planning to adapt COVID-19 vaccines to addressSARS-CoV-2 variants.Adapting COVID-19 vaccines to SARS-CoV-2 variants: guidance for vaccine manufacturers
25/02/2021
At their workshop on 10 February 2021, ICMRA members discussed surveillance activities and data requirements for updating available vaccines against new virus strains. A report is available.
International cooperation to align approaches for regulation of COVID-19 vaccines and medicines
25/02/2021
At their workshop on 9 February 2021, ICMRA members discussed issues around COVID-19 medicines in pregnant and breastfeeding women, including knowledge gaps and how to overcome them. A report is available.
International cooperation to align approaches for regulation of COVID-19 vaccines and medicines
24/02/2021EMA’s CHMP has started the rolling review of a monoclonal antibody for the treatment of COVID-19 from Celltrion.EMA starts rolling review of Celltrion antibody regdanvimab for COVID-19
18/02/2021EMA published the European public assessment report for COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca. 
16/02/2021EMA’s CHMP began evaluating an application for conditional marketing authorisation for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, developed by Janssen-Cilag International N.V.EMA receives application for conditional marketing authorisation of COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen
16/02/2021EMA published a paediatric investigation plan for COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen, developed by Janssen-Cilag International N.V. 
12/02/2021EMA’s CHMP has started the rolling review of the COVID-19 vaccine CVnCoV. The vaccine is being developed by CureVac AG.EMA starts rolling review of CureVac’s COVID-19 vaccine (CVnCoV)
10/02/2021EMA has requested all COVID-19 vaccine developers to investigate if their vaccine can offer protection against any new virus variants, and to submit relevant data.EMA preparing guidance to tackle COVID-19 variants
10/02/2021EMA clarified that it has not received an application for a rolling review or a marketing authorisation for the Sputnik V vaccine (Gam-COVID-Vac) developed by the Gamaleya National Centre of Epidemiology and Microbiology in Russia, despite reports stating the opposite.Clarification on Sputnik V vaccine in the EU approval process
08/02/2021At their workshop on 25 January 2021, ICMRA members shared information on COVID-19 observational studies and discussed progress with international cohort building, pregnancy studies, vaccines surveillance and pharmacovigilance.International regulators working together to enhance collaboration on COVID-19 observational research
05/02/2021EMA published the first safety update for COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna. 
04/02/2021EMA's CHMP started reviewing data on the use of combinations of monoclonal antibodies to treat COVID-19.EMA reviewing data on monoclonal antibody use for COVID-19
04/02/2021EMA is running a pilot of non-EU regulators and WHO taking part in its scientific evaluations.
03/02/2021EMA’s CHMP has started the rolling review of the COVID-19 vaccine NVX-CoV2373. The vaccine is being developed by Novavax CZ AS.
01/02/2021EMA’s CHMP has started the rolling review of a medicine to treat and prevent COVID-19. It is being developed by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and F. Hoffman-La Roche, Ltd (Roche).EMA starts rolling review of REGN-COV2 antibody combination (casirivimab / imdevimab)
29/01/2021The European Commission authorised the third COVID-19 vaccine in the EU, COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca, following evaluation by EMA. 
29/01/2021EMA's CHMP issued a positive opinion for a conditional marketing authorisation for the COVID-19 vaccine developed by AstraZeneca and University of Oxford.EMA recommends COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca for authorisation in the EU
29/01/2021EMA published its first COVID-19 vaccine safety update, beginning with an update on the safety of Comirnaty.First COVID-19 vaccine safety update published
28/01/2021EMA's CHMP updated the product information for Comirnaty to clarify its position on the interval between the first and second doses.Clarification of Comirnaty dosage interval
22/01/2021EMA is holding meetings for its scientific committees, working parties and stakeholders virtually until further notice. 
20/01/2021The info-card for patients on how to report suspected side effects with medicines is now available in all EU languages. 
20/01/2021EMA published the European public assessment report for COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna.COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna: European public assessment report
19/01/2021ICMRA has developed a statement to inform and help healthcare professionals answer questions about COVID-19 vaccines.Global regulators highlight key role of healthcare professionals in fostering confidence in COVID-19 vaccines
15/01/2021EMA extended its target timeframe for publishing European public assessment reports for COVID-19 medicines.  
14/01/2021
Information on COVID-19 from EU / EEA Member States is available in national languages.
Heads of Medicines Agencies (HMA): information on COVID-19
12/01/2021
EMA’s CHMP began evaluating an application for conditional marketing authorisation for the COVID-19 vaccine ChAdOx1-SARS-CoV-2 developed by AstraZeneca and University of Oxford.
EMA receives application for conditional marketing authorisation of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca
08/01/2021EMA's CHMP recommended updating the product information for Comirnaty: each vial contains 6 doses.
06/01/2021
The European Commission authorised the second vaccine to prevent COVID-19 in the EU, COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna, following evaluation by EMA. 
 
06/01/2021
EMA's CHMP issued a positive opinion for a conditional marketing authorisation for the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Moderna Biotech Spain, S.L.
EMA recommends COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna for authorisation in the EU
05/01/2021EMA published a paediatric investigation plan for the COVID-19 vaccine ChAdOx1-SARS-CoV-2 developed by AstraZeneca, in collaboration with the University of Oxford. 
30/12/2020EMA provided an update on the rolling review for the COVID-19 vaccine ChAdOx1-SARS-COV-2 developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University.Update on rolling review of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine
23/12/2020EMA published the European public assessment report for Comirnaty, the first COVID-19 vaccine to be authorised in the EU. Comirnaty: European public assessment report
22/12/2020EMA is holding a second public meeting on 8 January 2021 to inform European citizens about the assessment, approval and roll-out of new COVID-19 vaccines.EMA organises a second public meeting about the new COVID-19 vaccines
21/12/2020The European Commission authorised the first vaccine to prevent COVID-19 in the EU, following evaluation by EMA. European Commission: Union Register of medicinal products for human use
21/12/2020EMA's CHMP issued its first positive opinion on a vaccine to prevent COVID-19 in the EU. EMA recommends first COVID-19 vaccine for authorisation in the EU
18/12/2020EMA published paediatric investigation plans for the COVID-19 vaccines BNT162b2 developed by BioNTech and Pfizer and mRNA-1273 developed by Moderna.  
17/12/2020EMA provided an update on the evaluation timeline for the COVID-19 vaccine mRNA-1273 developed by Moderna.Update on assessment of marketing authorisation application for Moderna’s mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine
15/12/2020EMA provided an update on the evaluation timeline for the COVID-19 vaccine BNT162b2 developed by BioNTech and Pfizer. Update on assessment of the BioNTech and Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccine marketing authorisation application
11/12/2020EMA held a virtual meeting to explain the processes for the development, evaluation, approval and safety monitoring of COVID-19 vaccines in the EU.Public stakeholder meeting: development and authorisation of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines in the EU
14/12/2020EMA signed a contract with Utrecht University to study the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in EU Member States. 
11/12/2020EMA published information on the studies for the approval of COVID-19 vaccines. 
10/12/2020EMA updated information on its exceptional transparency measures to cover post-authorisation procedures 
01/12/2020EMA’s CHMP has started the rolling review of the COVID-19 vaccine Ad26.COV2.S. The vaccine is being developed by Janssen-Cilag International N.V.EMA starts rolling review of Janssen’s COVID-19 vaccine Ad26.COV2.S
01/12/2020EMA’s CHMP began evaluating an application for conditional marketing authorisation for the COVID-19 vaccine mRNA-1273 by Moderna Biotech Spain, S.L.EMA receives application for conditional marketing authorisation of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine
01/12/2020EMA’s CHMP began evaluating an application for conditional marketing authorisation for the COVID-19 vaccine BNT162b2 developed by BioNTech and Pfizer.EMA receives application for conditional marketing authorisation of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine BNT162b2
27/11/2020EMA published guidance on flexibilities to help developers of COVID-19 vaccines prepare and roll out packaging and labelling for their vaccines quickly. 
27/11/2020ICMRA members encouraged stakeholders responsible for clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccines to continue running these trials for as long as is feasible.Global regulators urge continuation of COVID-19 vaccine trials for longer-term safety and efficacy follow-up
27/11/2020ICMRA members expressed their support for regulatory reliance. 
27/11/2020EMA published guidance for developers of COVID-19 vaccines and treatments on where to find the standards and requirements related to pharmaceutical quality that are applicable in the EU. 
20/11/2020EMA provided an update on Veklury (remdesivir), after the World Health Organization (WHO) had issued conditional recommendations against its use in hospitalised patients with COVID-19.Update on remdesivir - EMA will evaluate new data from Solidarity trial
20/11/2020EMA and the Heads of Medicines Agencies (HMA) encouraged developers of COVID-19 vaccines to use the centralised procedure for their EU marketing authorisation applications.HMA/EMA statement on approval of vaccines
19/11/2020EMA is holding a virtual public meeting on Friday 11 December to explain the regulatory processes for COVID-19 vaccines and to listen to European citizens’ needs, expectations and concerns.EMA organises public meeting on COVID-19 vaccines
19/11/2020EMA published guidance for developers of potential COVID-19 vaccines on the clinical evidence to include in their marketing authorisation application.EMA considerations on Covid-19 vaccine approval
16/11/2020EMA’s CHMP has started the rolling review of a third COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine is being developed by Moderna Biotech Spain, S.L.EMA starts rolling review of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine by Moderna Biotech Spain, S.L.
13/11/2020EMA and the national competent authorities have prepared a safety monitoring plan for COVID-19 vaccines. Guidance is also available on preparing risk management plans for COVID-19 vaccines. EMA publishes safety monitoring plan and guidance on risk management planning for COVID-19 vaccines
06/11/2020ICMRA and the World Health Organization have committed to work together to enable the earliest possible patient access to safe and effective medicines against COVID-19 worldwide.International regulators and WHO join forces to address COVID-19 challenges
30/10/2020EMA’s Executive Director sent an open letter to members of the European Parliament, in response to their enquiry on transparency related to the evaluation of COVID-19 vaccines.Reply to open letter concerning the transparency and evaluation of vaccines for COVID-19
30/10/2020EMA has published a list of COVID-19  treatments and vaccines that have received scientific advice or informal guidance from EMA’s pandemic Task Force.Extra transparency measures for COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics
30/10/2020EMA has published the clinical data supporting the initial authorisation of Veklury (remdesivir).Extra transparency measures for COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics
23/10/2020At their workshop on 13 October, ICMRA members discussed their experiences supporting and assessing real-world evidence to facilitate regulatory decision-making on COVID-19 treatments and vaccines.Strengthening global collaboration on COVID-19 real-world evidence and observational studies
06/10/2020EMA’s CHMP has started the rolling review of a second COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine is being developed by BioNTech in collaboration with Pfizer.EMA starts second rolling review of a COVID-19 vaccine
05/10/2020EMA’s Executive Director sent an open letter to the European Ombudsman, in response to her enquiry on the transparency and independence of EMA’s activities in supporting the development and evaluation of COVID-19 medicines.EU regulators fully uphold transparency and independence standards for COVID-19 treatments and vaccines
01/10/2020EMA’s CHMP has started the first rolling review of a COVID-19 vaccine. It is being developed by the company AstraZeneca in collaboration with Oxford University.EMA starts first rolling review of a COVID-19 vaccine in the EU
01/10/2020EMA has published information on the development and evaluation of safe and effective vaccines for COVID-19.  
29/09/2020EMA had finalised 30 scientific advice procedures for potential medicines to treat COVID-19, with a further 21 ongoing. It had also been in contact with the developers of 163 potential COVID-19 treatments and 39 potential COVID-19 vaccines. 
18/09/2020EMA has endorsed the use of dexamethasone for the treatment of hospitalised adults and adolescents patients with COVID-19 who are receiving respiratory support.EMA endorses use of dexamethasone in COVID-19 patients on oxygen or mechanical ventilation
18/09/2020EMA, the European Commission and the Heads of Medicines Agencies (HMA) updated the European medicines regulatory network's business continuity plan to cover pharmacovigilance and inspection procedures. 
02/09/2020EMA had finalised 17 scientific advice procedures for potential medicines to treat COVID-19, with a further 22 ongoing. It had also been in contact with the developers of 158 potential COVID-19 treatments and 38 potential COVID-19 vaccines. 
02/09/2020EMA’s CHMP began evaluating Dexamethasone Taw for a marketing authorisation for the treatment of hospitalised adult patients with COVID-19.EMA receives application for marketing authorisation of Dexamethasone Taw for COVID-19
20/08/2020EMA decided to continue holding its committee and working-party meetings and its stakeholder events virtually until the end of 2020. 
31/07/2020EMA had finalised 17 scientific advice procedures for potential medicines to treat COVID-19, with a further 15 ongoing. It had also been in contact with the developers of 154 potential COVID-19 treatments and 38 potential COVID-19 vaccines. 
31/07/2020Progress is being made on developing a pharmacovigilance network for vaccines, carrying out research in pregnant women and the establishment of international patient cohorts.Global regulatory workshop on COVID-19 real-world evidence and observational studies
31/07/2020Regulatory authorities are receiving numerous proposals for phase 3 clinical trials from developers of COVID-19 treatments. Regulators have agreed on acceptable clinical-trial endpoints to facilitate rapid and consistent clinical trials for COVID-19 treatments.Global regulatory workshop on COVID-19 therapeutics #2: agreement on acceptable endpoints for clinical trials
24/07/2020EMA's CHMP started a review under Article 5(3) of Regulation 726/2004 of the results of a study using dexamethasone in hospitalised patients with COVID-19. CHMP will provide an opinion on the results of the study and on the potential use of dexamethasone to treat adults with COVID-19.EMA starts review of dexamethasone for treating adults with COVID-19 requiring respiratory support
21/07/2020EMA is applying exceptional transparency measures for treatments and vaccines against COVID-19 that are approved or are under evaluation, to address the high interest in information on COVID-19 medicines and to support global research. 
21/07/2020EMA signed a contract with Utrecht University to study the impact of COVID-19 infection and medicines in pregnancy. This project completes EMA's infrastructure to support the real-world monitoring of COVID-19 treatments and vaccines.COVID-19: EMA sets up infrastructure for real-world monitoring of treatments and vaccines
16/07/2020EMA had finalised 9 scientific advice procedures for potential medicines to treat COVID-19, with a further 13 ongoing. It had also been in contact with the developers of 148 potential COVID-19 treatments and 36 potential COVID-19 vaccines. 
14/07/2020EMA urged researchers to adhere to the latest revision of the ENCePP Guide on methodological standards in pharmacoepidemiology. The foreword highlights chapters relevant to COVID-19 and examples of good practice.European Network of Centres for Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance (ENCePP)
09/07/2020ICMRA published a report summarising its second workshop on the development of COVID-19 vaccines. The report highlights key considerations and data requirements for the design and conduct of phase 3 clinical trials.International regulators align positions on phase 3 COVID-19 vaccine trials
06/07/2020The European Public Assessment Report (EPAR) for Veklury (remdesivir), including CHMP's assessment report, is available.Veklury
06/07/2020EMA provided a template and dedicated email address for notifications of exceptional change management process (ECMP), as foreseen in the questions and answers on regulatory expectations for medicinal products for human use during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
03/07/2020The European Commission granted a conditional marketing authorisation for Veklury (remdesivir), for the treatment of COVID-19 in adults and adolescents from 12 years of age with pneumonia who require supplemental oxygen. Veklury is the first treatment against COVID-19 in the EU.

European Commission authorises first treatment against COVID-19  

03/07/2020EMA has been in contact with the developers of:
  • 144 potential COVID-19 treatments;
  • 35 potential COVID-19 vaccines.
 
01/07/2020EMA endorsed a joint statement on clinical trials from the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA), which outlines the characteristics of COVID-19 trials most likely to generate conclusive evidence, and encourages adequate patient enrolment and public reporting of results.International regulators provide guiding principles for COVID-19 clinical trials
01/07/2020EMA, the European Commission and the Heads of Medicine Agencies updated their questions and answers on regulatory expectations for medicinal products for  human use during the COVID-19 pandemic to cover pharmacovigilance inspections, system audits and the management of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs). 
01/07/2020EMA, the European Commission and the Heads of Medicine Agencies updated their questions and answers on regulatory expectations for medicinal products for veterinary use during the COVID-19 pandemic to cover pharmacovigilance inspections. 
30/06/2020EMA and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety of the Republic of Korea (MFDS) signed an ad hoc confidentiality agreement to share confidential information and documents on COVID-19 and medicines intended for its diagnosis, prevention or treatment.EMA and Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety to share confidential COVID-19 information
29/06/2020EMA decided to continue holding its committee and working-party meetings virtually until the end of September 2020. Stakeholder events planned until the end of September will either be postponed or held virtually. 
29/06/2020EMA revised its guidance on Points to consider on implications of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on methodological aspects of ongoing clinical trials following a four-week public consultation. 
25/06/2020EMA's CHMP recommended for approval the first treatment against COVID-19 in the EU. CHMP gave a positive opinion for a conditional marketing authorisation for Veklury (remdesivir), for the treatment of COVID-19 in adults and adolescents from 12 years of age with pneumonia who require supplemental oxygen.First COVID-19 treatment recommended for EU authorisation
24/06/2020EMA and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) jointly chaired the second regulatory workshop on the development of COVID-19 vaccines on Monday 22 June, under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). Participants discussed certain methodological aspects and data requirements for the design and conduct of phase 3 clinical trials.Global regulators discuss data requirements for phase 3 trials of COVID-19 vaccines
24/06/2020EMA contracted IQVIA Ltd. on 8 June 2020 to carry out a project to build a framework for the conduct of multicentre cohort studies on the use of medicines in COVID-19 patients. 
22/06/2020EMA and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) shared their experiences and challenges in facilitating the development, review and availability of COVID-19 vaccines at their 2020 bilateral meeting, among other topics. They also discussed the use of real world evidence to support regulatory decisions.European Commission, EMA and FDA agree new priorities to strengthen their collaboration on medicines
16/06/2020EMA has been in contact with the developers of:
  • 132 potential COVID-19 treatments;
  • 34 potential COVID-19 vaccines.
 
15/06/2020EMA participated in the fifth bi-weekly global regulators’ meeting on COVID-19-related policy approaches and regulatory flexibility on Friday, 12 June, under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). Participants focused on the planning, progress and prioritisation of COVID-19 clinical trials.Global regulators work towards alignment on policy approaches and regulatory flexibility during COVID-19 – update #4
15/06/2020EMA introduced a fee for its rolling review procedure. This fee is deductible from the fee EMA would charge for the marketing authorisation application once the company submits the full dossier following the rolling review. Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are eligible for a 90% fee reduction for the rolling review.Rules for the implementation of Council Regulation (EC) No 297/95 on fees payable to the European Medicines Agency and other measures - Revised implementing rules to the Fee Regulation as of 12 June 2020
10/06/2020EMA published Guidance on remote GCP inspections during the COVID-19 pandemic during the pandemic. This is the first in a series of guidance documents on remote inspections for the verification of compliance with EU and international standards during the pandemic. 
10/06/2020EMA extended its medical literature monitoring service to cover authorised active substances that could help treat COVID-19. EMA’s service aims to reduce duplication of effort and multiple reporting of suspected adverse events for active substances that have many marketing authorisation holders.Monitoring of medical literature and entry of adverse reaction reports into EudraVigilance
10/06/2020EMA reiterated its advice to patients and healthcare professionals that angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs, or sartan medicines) can continue to be used during the pandemic. This follows a review of recently published studies that showed no link between the use of these medicines and a higher risk of infection or worsening of COVID-19.Latest data support continued use of ACE inhibitors and ARB medicines during COVID-19 pandemic
08/06/2020EMA provided an update on the measures EU authorities are putting in place to support the continued availability of medicines during the pandemic, following a meeting of the EU Executive Steering Group on Shortages of Medicines Caused by Major Events. The steering group agreed that EMA would set up an ad hoc working group to improve the forecasting of future medicines demand in the EU, in preparation for a potential second wave of infections.EU actions to support availability of medicines during COVID-19 pandemic – update #7
08/06/2020EMA’s CHMP formally began evaluating remdesivir for a conditional marketing authorisation. The CHMP will assess this application under the minimum timeframe necessary to allow for a thorough evaluation of the medicine’s benefits and risks. EMA also published its decision on the paediatric investigation plan (PIP) for remdesivir.EMA receives application for conditional authorisation of first COVID-19 treatment in the EU
08/06/2020EMA published a Infographic - Fast-track procedures for treatments and vaccines for COVID-19 for COVID-19 treatments and vaccines. 
04/06/2020EMA updated patients’ and healthcare professionals’ organisations about its COVID-19-related activities at a virtual meeting with the Patients’ and Consumers’ Working Party and the Healthcare Professionals’ Working Party on Tuesday, 2 June 2020. A recording of the meeting is available.Patients’ and healthcare professionals’ organisations updated on EMA’s response to COVID-19
29/05/2020EMA and the United States Food and Drug Administration published FDA / EMA common commentary on submitting an initial paediatric study plan (iPSP) and paediatric investigation plan (PIP) for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 to the FDA for a COVID-19 vaccine or treatment. The aim of the joint document is to make it easier for developers to submit paediatric development plans simultaneously to the regulators. 
29/05/2020The International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA) published a report summarising its global regulatory workshop on COVID-19 observational studies and the use of real-world data. The report provides an overview of global regulators’ priority areas for cooperation in the areas of pregnancy research, building international clinical cohorts, and preparing for vaccine safety and effectiveness monitoring. 
29/05/2020EMA reminded healthcare professionals to closely monitor patients with COVID-19 who are receiving chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine. List of references of observational studies of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in COVID-19 patients in COVID-19 have reported that chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are associated with an increased risk of heart problems, a well-known side effect of such treatments, including cardiac arrhythmias and cardiac arrest.COVID-19: reminder of the risks of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine
29/05/2020EMA’s Executive Director sent an European Medicines Agency response to IQWIG on transparency of COVID-19 related activities to researchers from the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) and the Cochrane Collaboration, in response to their call for EMA to make the clinical data submitted as part of COVID-19-related evaluation procedures publicly available rapidly. 
29/05/2020The rolling review of data on remdesivir concluded on 15 May 2020. The next step is for the company to submit an application for a conditional marketing authorisation, together with the additional data requested by EMA’s CHMP. The CHMP will assess this application under the minimum timeframe necessary to allow for a thorough evaluation of the medicine’s benefits and risks. Meeting highlights from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) 25-28 May 2020
28/05/2020EMA chaired the fourth bi-weekly strategic meeting on COVID-19-related policy approaches and regulatory flexibility on Wednesday 27 May, under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). Participants discussed regulatory aspects of COVID-19 medicine development, pragmatic approaches to address challenges posed by the pandemic, and the mandate of the newly established ICMRA COVID-19 Working Group.Global regulators work towards alignment on policy approaches and regulatory flexibility during COVID-19 – update #3
28/05/2020EMA, the European Commission and the Heads of Medicine Agencies updated their guidance for pharmaceutical companies on adaptations to the regulatory framework to clarify the exceptional change-management process in place to reduce the risk of shortages or disruption of supply of crucial medicines for COVID-19. The update also introduces further temporary flexibility on good-manufacturing- and good-distribution-practice inspections and new guidance on inspections of plasma collection centres. 
28/05/2020EMA announced that essential work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic would continue during the Agency’s closure on 1 June.Essential work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic to continue during EMA's closure on 1 June 2020
28/05/2020EMA, together with the European Commission and the Heads of Medicines Agencies (HMA), published their European Medicines Regulatory Network COVID-19 Business Continuity Plan. This sets out principles to ensure that the European medicines regulatory network can continue to operate its core regulatory activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. It covers procedures related to medicines for COVID-19, as well as core procedures for other human and veterinary medicines.European medicines regulatory network fully mobilised in fight against COVID-19
27/05/2020EMA gave an update stating that it had been in contact with the developers of around:
  • 125 potential COVID-19 treatments;
  • 33 potential COVID-19 vaccines.
 
27/05/2020EMA signed a contract with Utrecht University to conduct research into data sources and methods that can be used to monitor the safety, effectiveness and coverage of COVID-19 vaccines in clinical practice once they are authorised in the EU. Under the ACCESS (vACcine Covid-19 monitoring readinESS) project, researchers will identify a Europe-wide network of data sources and possible adverse events requiring extra consideration.EMA commissions independent research to prepare for real-world monitoring of COVID-19 vaccines
26/05/2020EMA encouraged collaboration between EU researchers on high-quality, multi-centre observational studies of COVID-19 treatments and vaccines. A new COVID-19 response group, set up by the European Network of Centres for Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance (ENCePP), is in place to facilitate this collaboration. Recommendations on conducting high-quality observational research during the pandemic are also available in a recently published article by EMA staff and EU researchers.EMA calls for high-quality observational research in context of COVID-19
20/05/2020EMA and Health Canada jointly chaired the fourth global regulatory workshop on Tuesday 19 May, under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). The participants identified priority areas for cooperation on observational research during COVID-19: pregnancy research, medicines used in clinical practice, and monitoring vaccine safety and effectiveness.Global regulators commit to cooperate on observational research in the context of COVID-19
19/05/2020EMA decided to continue holding its committee and working-party meetings virtually until the end of August 2020. Stakeholder events planned until the end of August will either be postponed or held virtually. 
19/05/2020EMA announced that essential work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic would continue during the Agency’s closure from 21 to 22 May.Essential work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic to continue during EMA's closure on 1 June 2020
18/05/2020EMA’s Executive Director, Guido Rasi, attended the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) on Monday, 18 May, to respond to questions on EMA’s response to COVID-19. This followed his statement to the committee on Tuesday, 12 May. A recording of the session is available on the European Parliament’s website. 
18/05/2020EMA participated in the third bi-weekly global regulators’ meeting on COVID-19-related policy approaches and regulatory flexibility on Thursday 14 May, under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). Participants discussed COVID-19 clinical-trial management, focusing in particular on the use of master protocols to help generate the robust evidence needed for regulatory decisions, and measures for mitigating medicine-supply issues.  Global regulators work towards alignment on policy approaches and regulatory flexibility during COVID-19 – update #2
15/05/2020EMA provided an update on the measures EU authorities are putting in place to support the continued availability of medicines during the pandemic, following a meeting of the EU Executive Steering Group on Shortages of Medicines Caused by Major Events.EU actions to support availability of medicines during COVID-19 pandemic – update #6
15/05/2020Members of EMA staff and its scientific committees published an article setting out concrete actions that stakeholders involved in COVID-19 clinical trials should take in order to generate the conclusive evidence needed to enable rapid development and approval of potential treatments and vaccines against COVID-19. The article is available via open access on the website of Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics.International coordination needed to encourage conduct of large, decision-relevant COVID-19 clinical trials
14/05/2020EMA held a virtual press briefing explaining its efforts to expedite the development and approval of COVID-19 treatments and vaccines, its role in ensuring the continued availability of crucial medicines in the EU during the pandemic, and its publication of reliable information for patients and healthcare professionals. The press briefing featured Noël Wathion, EMA’s Deputy Executive Director, and Marco Cavaleri, EMA’s Head of Biological Health Threats and Vaccines Strategy. A recording of the briefing is available. 
14/05/2020EMA announced that it is waiving its fees for on-site inspections of manufacturing sites and blood establishments that have been inspected remotely during the pandemic but where the remote inspection could not confirm compliance with good manufacturing practice (GMP) standards. For further details, see the.  
14/05/2020EMA gave an update stating that it had been in contact with the developers of around:
  • 115 potential COVID-19 treatments;
  • 33 potential COVID-19 vaccines.
 
13/05/2020EMA’s Executive Director, Guido Rasi, briefed the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) on EMA’s response to COVID-19 on Tuesday, 12 May. He explained EMA’s efforts to expedite the development and approval of COVID-19 treatments and vaccines, its role in ensuring the continued availability of crucial medicines in the EU during the pandemic, and its publication of reliable information for patients and healthcare professionals. A recording of the session is available on the European Parliament’s website. 
11/05/2020EMA’s CHMP recommended extending the compassionate use of the investigational medicine remdesivir to further groups of patients in Europe, based on preliminary results of studies with the medicine. The updated recommendations cover hospitalised patients who are requiring supplemental oxygen, non-invasive ventilation, high-flow oxygen devices or ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), in addition to those on invasive mechanical ventilation. EMA recommends expanding remdesivir compassionate use to patients not on mechanical ventilation
08/05/2020EMA provided an update on the measures EU authorities are putting in place to support the continued availability of medicines during the pandemic, following a meeting of the EU Executive Steering Group on Shortages of Medicines Caused by Major Events.EU actions to support availability of medicines during COVID-19 pandemic – update #5
07/05/2020EMA updated the eSubmission Gateway user interface to allow applicants to flag submissions related to COVID-19. The aim is to help EMA rapidly identify and prioritise COVID-19-related submissions. More information, including an updated user guide and release notes are available on the eSubmission website. 
05/05/2020EMA chaired the second bi-weekly global regulators’ meeting on COVID-19-related policy approaches and regulatory flexibility on Thursday 30 April, under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). Participants focused on the development of medicines and vaccines development against COVID-19, and stressed the need for the alignment of regulatory requirements to help speed their development, evaluation and availability.Global regulators work towards alignment on policy approaches and regulatory flexibility during COVID-19
04/05/2020EMA published EMA initiatives for acceleration of development support and evaluation procedures for COVID-19 treatments and vaccines [OBSOLETE] it has put in place to speed up development and approval of COVID-19 treatments and vaccines. The rapid procedures can accelerate every step of the regulatory pathway while ensuring that robust evidence on efficacy, safety and quality is generated to support scientific and regulatory decisions. As these procedures require developers to submit well-prepared dossiers, EMA encourages them to contact the Agency as soon as possible to discuss their strategy for evidence-generation, by emailing their proposals to 2019-ncov@ema.europa.euCOVID-19: how EMA fast-tracks development support and approval of medicines and vaccines
04/05/2020EMA updated its Detailed guidance on ICSRs in the context of COVID-19 - Validity and coding of ICSRs. The update of the guidance follows the implementation of version 23.0 of the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) containing additional COVID-19-related terms in EudraVigilance on Monday, 4 May.  
04/05/2020EMA, the European Commission and the national competent authorities published questions and answers on regulatory expectations for medicinal products for veterinary use during the COVID-19 pandemic. This guidance is for pharmaceutical companies responsible for veterinary medicines and sets out the adaptations to the regulatory framework in place to address challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. It covers marketing authorisation procedures, pharmacovigilance and good-manufacturing-practice (GMP) certificates, and inspections for veterinary medicines. Regulatory flexibility to ensure availability of veterinary medicines during COVID-19 pandemic
30/04/2020EMA announced that its CHMP has started a rolling review of data on the use of the investigational antiviral medicine remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19. This means that the CHMP is assessing data as they become available on a rolling basis while development is still ongoing. This is one of the Agency's regulatory tools to speed up the evaluation of a promising investigational treatment during a public health emergency.EMA starts rolling review of remdesivir for COVID-19
30/04/2020EMA provided an update on the measures EU authorities are putting in place to support the continued availability of medicines during the pandemic, following a meeting of the EU Executive Steering Group on Shortages of Medicines Caused by Major Events.EU actions to support availability of medicines during COVID-19 pandemic – update #4
28/04/2020EMA, the European Commission and the Heads of Medicines Agencies updated the Guidance on the management of clinical trials during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. The updated guidance includes more recommendations on simple and flexible measures sponsors can take to manage clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic, given the impact it is having on European health systems and society in general.European Commission: Coronavirus: Commission issues guidance to mitigate clinical trial disruption in the EU
28/04/2020EMA endorsed a joint statement by the members of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). The statement commits the international regulators to strengthen global collaboration to facilitate rapid development, approval and roll-out of safe and effective medicines against COVID-19.International regulators pledge collective support to combat COVID-19 pandemic
24/04/2020EMA provided an update on the measures EU authorities are putting in place to support the continued availability of medicines during the pandemic, following a meeting of the EU Executive Steering Group on Shortages of Medicines Caused by Major Events. This includes the development of guidance for pharmaceutical companies responsible for veterinary medicines on adaptations of the regulatory framework to address COVID-19-related challenges.EU actions to support availability of medicines during COVID-19 pandemic – update #3
24/04/2020EMA and the national competent authorities reminded patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to report any suspected side effects that they are experiencing with any medicine, including medicines taken to treat COVID-19 and pre-existing conditions. Healthcare professionals treating COVID-19 patients should also report the suspected side effects that their patients are experiencing. These reports help regulators understand how medicines act in patients with COVID-19, complementing the knowledge generated in clinical trials and other studies.Reporting suspected side effects of medicines in patients with COVID-19
23/04/2020EMA announced that essential work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic would continue during the Agency’s closure on 27 April and on 1 May 2020.Essential work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic to continue during EMA's closure on 27 April and on 1 May 2020
23/04/2020EMA reminded patients and healthcare professionals that chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine medicines are known to potentially cause certain side effects, including heart rhythm problems. Healthcare professionals should carefully consider the possibility of heart rhythm problems when treating COVID-19 patients with these medicines, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart problems and with higher doses, and exercise extra caution when combining treatment with other medicines such as azithromycin that have similar effects on the heart.COVID-19: reminder of risk of serious side effects with chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine
21/04/2020EMA participated in the global regulators’ meeting on COVID-19-related policy approaches and regulatory flexibility on Thursday, 16 April, under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). Participants discussed high-level policy issues and regulatory challenges related to the rapid development of potential COVID-19 treatments and vaccines and the continued availability of medicines during the pandemic, in particular those used in intensive care. The meeting was the first of a series of bi-weekly meetings organised by ICMRA to allow medicine regulators worldwide to exchange information and build synergies for expediting COVID-19 medicine and vaccine development and approval and avoiding medicine shortages. EMA will chair every other meeting. 
21/04/2020EMA announced that it had launched, together with EU Member States and the pharmaceutical industry, an enhanced fast-track monitoring system to help prevent and mitigate supply issues with crucial medicines used for treating COVID-19 patients. Initially, the system will focus on medicines used in intensive care, which are in greatest demand, before extending to a broader range of medicines. The monitoring system, which involves each pharmaceutical company appointing an industry single point of contact (iSPOC), was set up by the EU Executive Steering Group on Shortages of Medicines Caused by Major Events in cooperation with pharmaceutical companies in the EU.Launch of enhanced monitoring system for availability of medicines used for treating COVID-19
21/04/2020EMA decided to continue holding its committee and working-party meetings virtually until the end of May 2020. Stakeholder events planned for May will either be postponed or held virtually. Most EMA staff are also continuing to work remotely until the end of May. 
20/04/2020The European Commission, EMA and the Heads of Medicine Agencies updated their guidance for pharmaceutical companies on adaptations to the regulatory framework to address COVID-19 challenges to cover good manufacturing practice (GMP) and good distribution practice (GDP) inspections, and the submission of individual case safety reports (ICSRs) to EudraVigilance. EMA published Detailed guidance on ICSRs in the context of COVID-19 - Validity and coding of ICSRs on how to submit COVID-19-related ICSRs to EudraVigilance, including on the use of the correct Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) terms and free-text fields.Update to guidance on regulatory expectations in the context of COVID-19 pandemic
20/04/2020EMA provided an update on the measures EU authorities are putting place to support the continued availability of medicines during the pandemic, following a meeting of the EU Executive Steering Group on Shortages of Medicines Caused by Major Events. The update covers progress made in setting up an enhanced monitoring system for supply issues with crucial medicines for the treatment of COVID-19 and planned updates to the guidance for pharmaceutical companies on adaptations of the regulatory framework to address COVID-19-related challenges.EU actions to support availability of medicines during COVID-19 pandemic – update #2
16/04/2020The International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities published a report summarising the third global regulatory workshop on the use of observational studies and real-world data in generating robust evidence on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and treatments. The report provides a snapshot of ongoing and planned observational studies, platforms and registries in various countries and regions around the world. EMA co-chaired the meeting with Health Canada.Meeting highlights from ICMRA global regulatory workshop on COVID-19 observational studies and real world data
10/04/2020EMA, the European Commission and the European medicines regulatory network published guidance for companies on adaptations to the regulatory framework to address challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular focus on crucial medicines for use in COVID-19 patients.Guidance on regulatory requirements in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
10/04/2020EMA provided an update on the measures EU authorities are putting place to support the continued availability of medicines during the pandemic. This covers the enhanced monitoring system for supply issues with crucial medicines for the treatment of COVID-19 and the guidance currently under development on the regulatory rules that could be applied with greater flexibility to help secure their continued supply.Update on EU actions to support availability of medicines during COVID-19 pandemic
09/04/2020EMA published the Superseded - Mandate, objectives and rules of procedure of the COVID-19 EMA pandemic Task Force (COVID-ETF) The Task Force is helping EU Member States and the European Commission to take quick and coordinated regulatory action on the development, authorisation and safety monitoring of treatments and vaccines intended for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19.EMA establishes task force to take quick and coordinated regulatory action related to COVID-19 medicines
09/04/2020The International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities published the report summarising the second global regulatory workshop on COVID-19 medicine development held on Thursday 2 April. The report stresses the need for robust evidence to show which potential treatments work. EMA co-chaired the meeting.Global regulators stress need for robust evidence on COVID-19 treatments
07/04/2020EMA and Health Canada jointly chaired the third global regulatory workshop on Monday 6 April under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). The participants discussed how data generated during clinical practice in the treatment of COVID-19 could complement evidence from clinical trials of potential COVID-19 treatments and vaccines.Global regulators discuss observational studies of real world data for COVID-19 medicines
07/04/2020EMA announced that essential work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic would continue during the Agency’s Easter break from 9 to 13 April 2020.Essential work to combat the COVID-19 pandemic to continue during EMA's Easter break from 9 to 13 April 2020
06/04/2020EMA announced new EU-level measures to help prevent and mitigate supply issues with medicines used to treat COVID-19 patients. These include enhanced coordination with the pharmaceutical industry in monitoring supply issues and regulatory actions to support companies in increasing the available supply of critical medicines. During this extraordinary health crisis, EMA will act as the central EU coordinator, supporting Member States' activities in preventing and mitigating supply issues.EU authorities agree new measures to support availability of medicines used in the COVID-19 pandemic
03/04/2020EMA’s CHMP gave recommendations on how the investigational antiviral medicine remdesivir should be used in compassionate use programmes across Europe when treating COVID-19 patients who are not eligible for inclusion in clinical trials. These recommendations aim to ensure a harmonised approach across EU Member States. They also explain which group of patients may benefit from treatment and provide preliminary information on the medicine’s safety.EMA provides recommendations on compassionate use of remdesivir for COVID-19
03/04/2020EMA and the Japanese Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) jointly chaired the second global regulatory workshop on Thursday 2 April under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA). The participants discussed the progress made in the development of potential COVID-19 treatments and reaffirmed the need for large clinical trials to generate conclusive evidence on which treatments work. ICMRA will publish a summary report of the meeting shortly.International regulators discuss available knowledge supporting COVID-19 medicine development
01/04/2020EMA advised patients and healthcare professionals to only use chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine medicines for their authorised indications or as part of clinical trials or national emergency use programmes for the treatment of COVID-19. This is to ensure patient safety and the best use of available supplies.COVID-19: chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine only to be used in clinical trials or emergency use programmes
31/03/2020EMA announced that it has held discussions with developers of around 40 potential treatments and a dozen vaccines against COVID-19. No potential COVID-19 treatments had demonstrated efficacy based on the preliminary data available. EMA welcomes the launch of large clinical trials to test promising treatments and to generate conclusive evidence. Two vaccines had already entered phase I clinical trials. EMA estimated that it might take at least a year before a vaccine is ready for approval and available in sufficient quantities to enable widespread use. Update on treatments and vaccines against COVID-19 under development
30/03/2020EMA started issuing certificates that are signed and authenticated electronically in place of paper certificates. This applies to all ongoing and future requests for certificates during the COVID-19 pandemic.EMA to issue electronic certificates for medicines
27/03/2020EMA, the European Commission and the Heads of Medicines Agencies updated the Guidance on the management of clinical trials during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic to cover safety reporting, the distribution of in-vitro diagnostics, medical devices and auditing. The updated guidance also incorporates changes in other sections, in particular on communicating with authorities, informed consent and the distribution of investigational medicines. 
27/03/2020EMA advised patients and healthcare professionals that angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs, or sartan medicines) can continue to be used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure or kidney disease during the COVID-19 pandemic. There is currently no evidence from clinical or epidemiological studies that establishes a link between these medicines and worsening of COVID-19. Patients taking these medicines should not interrupt their treatment without speaking to their doctor or pharmacist first. EMA will keep its information on new COVID-19-related treatment recommendations up to date.EMA advises continued use of medicines for hypertension, heart or kidney disease during COVID-19 pandemic
27/03/2020EMA and the European Network of Centres for Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance (ENCePP) encouraged all researchers to register their pharmacoepidemiological studies related to the COVID-19 pandemic in the EU PAS Register. They should also upload and make their study protocols public, with a description of the data collected or planned to be collected. This is to facilitate collaborations and speed up the design of observational studies by others. Researchers should include ‘COVID-19’ in the study title to allow easy retrieval of all COVID-19-related studies via the ‘Title of Study’ search filter. 
25/03/2020EMA published guidance on the actions that sponsors of ongoing clinical trials affected by the COVID-19 pandemic should take to help ensure the integrity of their studies and the interpretation of study results while safeguarding the safety of trial participants as a first priority. This complements the good clinical practice guidance on how sponsors should adjust the management of clinical trials and participants during the pandemic.  
24/03/2020The International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities published a summary report of the first global regulatory workshop on COVID-19 vaccine development which was co-chaired by EMA. The report focuses on pre-clinical data requirements and the theoretical risk that vaccines against COVID-19 enhance the disease prior to starting first-in-human clinical trials.Global regulators map out data requirements for phase 1 COVID-19 vaccine trials
24/03/2020Some Member States are experiencing medicine shortages due to an increased demand for some medicines. This is either because the medicines are used to treat COVID-19 patients or because patients are requesting more than their usual supplies. In order to prevent unnecessary strain on supply chains, patients should only receive their usual supply of medicines. For information on ongoing medicine shortages in the EU, patients and healthcare professionals can check the relevant national shortages registers and EMA's shortages catalogue. 
24/03/2020EMA urged patients to beware of potential falsified medicines sold by unregistered websites and vendors. These vendors may be exploiting fears during the COVID-19 pandemic and claiming that their products can prevent or cure COVID-19. They may also appear to provide easy access to medicines that are otherwise not readily available. Patients can stay safe when buying medicines online by following EU adviceCOVID-19: Beware of falsified medicines from unregistered websites
20/03/2020The European Commission, EMA and the Head of Medicines Agencies provided guidance for sponsors on how they should adjust the management of clinical trials and participants during the COVID-19 pandemic. It covers how to deal with the extraordinary situations the pandemic presents and includes specific advice on clinical trials for COVID-19 treatments.Guidance to sponsors on how to manage clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic
20/03/2020EMA’s first Management Board meeting of 2020 took place virtually and was reduced to one and a half hours to allow EMA and the Member States to continue to focus resources on the response to the pandemic.EMA Management Board – highlights of March 2020 meeting
19/03/2020EMA's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) urged the EU research community to prioritise large randomised controlled clinical studies as these are most likely to generate the conclusive evidence needed to enable rapid development and approval of potential COVID-19 treatments. They also emphasised the need to include all EU countries in these trials. EMA is currently engaging with stakeholders who can further support the conduct of clinical trials across Europe.Call to pool research resources into large multi-centre, multi-arm clinical trials to generate sound evidence on COVID-19 treatments
18/03/2020The first global regulatory workshop on COVID-19 was convened under the umbrella of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities. Co-chaired by EMA and the US Food and Drug Administration, it brought together delegates from 17 countries and experts from the World Health Organization and the European Commission to discuss the development of vaccines against COVID-19. First regulatory workshop on COVID-19 facilitates global collaboration on vaccine development
18/03/2020EMA advised patients and healthcare professionals that there currently no scientific evidence establishing a link between ibuprofen and worsening of COVID 19. However, EMA calls for further studies, which it is ready to support. Patients and healthcare professionals should consider all available options for treating coronavirus symptoms, including paracetamol and NSAIDs, in line with the product information and national guidelines.EMA gives advice on the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for COVID-19
18/03/2020EMA announced that it will participate as observer in the European Commission's advisory panel on COVID-19. Chaired by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and co-chaired by Stella Kyriakides, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, the panel of European scientific experts will formulate EU guidelines for science-based and coordinated risk-management measures. 
17/03/2020As of 16 March 2020, most EMA staff are working remotely. This is expected to last until the end of April 2020.  
13/03/2020EMA provides full fee waivers for scientific advice for potential vaccines and treatments for COVID-19. Developers of potential therapeutics or vaccines against COVID-19 are invited to contact the Agency as soon as possible with information about their proposed development, by emailing 2019-ncov@ema.europa.euCOVID-19: developers of medicines or vaccines to benefit from free scientific advice
11/03/2020EMA announced that is holding all its committee and working party meetings virtually until the end of April 2020. Other EMA-hosted stakeholder events will either be held virtually or postponed until later in 2020. EMA has also initiated its business continuity plan for the effective management of the COVID-19 crisis. These measures do not impact EMA’s core activities.COVID-19: EMA meetings with delegates and experts will be held virtually until end April 2020
10/03/2020The European medicines regulatory network has taken measures to monitor the potential impact of the outbreak of COVID-19 on human and veterinary medicine supply chains in the EU. This includes working with pharmaceutical industry associations, companies and manufacturers in the EU to assess the resilience of supply chains.Addressing the potential impact of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on medicines supply in the EU
04/02/2020EMA encouraged developers of potential vaccines or treatments for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) to make use of the Agency's regulatory mechanisms to speed up development and approval and to contact EMA as soon as possible to discuss their strategy for evidence-generation, by emailing 2019-ncov@ema.europa.eu. EMA has activated its plan for managing emerging health threats.EMA to support development of vaccines and treatments for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

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