International and regional experts focus on RSV prevention at Pfizer MERA Maternal Immunization Summit
The Pfizer Middle East, Russia and Africa (MERA) Maternal Immunization Summit: Born Ready brought together more than 80 medical experts, physicians, and healthcare professionals together in Cairo, Egypt to share insights on the latest efforts to prevent RSV in newborns
The summit highlighted the critical role of maternal vaccinations in the successful prevention of RSV and shed light on global best practices for such vaccination programs.
Dubai, UAE – More than 80 international and regional healthcare experts have convened at the Pfizer MERA Maternal Immunization Summit: Born Ready to discuss issues pertaining to maternal immunization. The summit, entitled 'RISE: Respiratory Immunization Summit for Excellence' and, held from 16-17 May 2025 in Cairo, Egypt, focused on the growing burden of neonatal respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the role of maternal vaccination in its successful prevention.
The summit aimed to increase awareness of the virus and its impact, in addition to the importance of maternal immunization in preventing RSV and protecting newborns. Experts addressed the challenges and barriers to the adoption of maternal immunization, shared best practices, and explored how healthcare providers can more effectively implement maternal immunization programs in the region.
Professor Irene Cetin, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Milan and Head of Obstetrics, Mangiagalli Policlinico Hospital Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda, Milan, Italy, said: 'Maternal immunization leverages the natural pregnancy process whereby antibodies – disease-fighting molecules – pass naturally from mother to baby through the placenta, starting in the second trimester and peaking during the third. Maternal antibodies help protect infants at birth and during the first few months of life, before they are eligible to receive vaccinations themselves.'
The administration of a vaccine to an expectant mother activates the maternal immune system, triggering the production of immunoglobin G (IgG) antibodies, which pass through the placenta from the parental bloodstream.
Professor Mohamed Momtaz, Emeritus Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kasr Al Ainy Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt, said: 'Because of the way the placenta pumps antibodies into the fetus during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, fetal IgG concentration usually exceeds the concentration of antibodies in the maternal circulation in full-term infants, meaning the baby is better protected from infectious diseases than the mother. This highlights the tremendous potential of maternal immunization to help prevent transmission of communicable diseases and reduce the impact of infections such as RSV. Furthermore, events like this summit encourage evidence-based conversations between healthcare providers and expectant mothers, while also highlighting practical approaches to communication and appropriate data sharing.'
According to the World Health Organization, RSV – a seasonal virus that leads to infections of the lungs and respiratory tract – is the most common cause of acute lower respiratory infections in children globally [i], responsible for an estimated 33 million such infections, more than three million hospitalizations and almost 60,000 deaths per year in children under 5 years of age [ii]. This trend is reflected regionally, where RSV infections are the leading cause of acute respiratory tract infections in young children, typically peaking during the winter months or the rainy season in humid countries.
Professor Hossam Al Tatari, Director of General Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Services at The Heart Medical Center, Al Ain, UAE said: 'RSV infection is very common, affecting almost all children within two years from birth. In adults and older, healthy children, RSV typically produces mild symptoms that mimic the common cold, but in the newborn babies below 6 months, and those otherwise immunocompromised, such as babies born prematurely, the infection can prove life-threatening. It is imperative that we explore every possible avenue to mitigate the risks associated with RSV, and take every step to prevent transmission, especially to the most vulnerable amongst us.'
Highlighting the benefits of maternal immunization to newborns and immunocompromised infants, Dr Hammam Haridy, Senior Director Regional Medical & Scientific Affairs at Pfizer MERA said: 'Infections such as RSV, while potentially dangerous, are preventable with vaccination. Despite the significant impact of RSV in the region and across the globe, comprehensive and consistent region-wide surveillance and burden data across the Middle East and North Africa region are currently limited. Forums such as the Maternal Immunization Summit are therefore crucial to drive buy-in of healthcare providers in order to increase awareness and tackle vaccine hesitancy. By providing a platform via which stakeholders can connect and share data and insights, we can drive the conversation around maternal vaccination, ensuring we make best use of available data in our interactions.'
Both the World Health Organization and the Strategic Group of Experts on Immunization recommend countries adopt measures to prevent severe RSV in infants [iii], with decisions on whether to use maternal immunization or monoclonal antibodies dependent upon a number of factors.
Emphasizing the need for collaboration between the medical community and vaccine developers to ensure maximum success in prevention, Merih Cetinkaya, Professor of Pediatrics, Health Sciences University and Head of Neonatology at Basaksehir Cam Sakura, City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey, said: 'Communicable diseases such as RSV have considerable impact on neonatal health, affecting both our populations and our healthcare systems, and vaccinations remain a cornerstone in lessening this impact. As healthcare providers, we share responsibility with stakeholders across the healthcare landscape to understand such diseases, to leverage innovation and technology, and to ensure equitable access to life-saving vaccines, especially for the most vulnerable members of our communities.'
During the event, Pfizer underscored its ongoing commitment to shaping the future of public health through the power of vaccines. Over the years, Pfizer's vaccines have played a vital role in preventing, controlling, and in some cases nearly eradicating infectious diseases, safeguarding millions of lives around the world and across the MERA region. As a leader in biopharmaceutical innovation, the company remains deeply invested in research and development, driving forward new solutions with the aim of enhancing patient outcomes and advancing global health.
About Pfizer: Breakthroughs That Change Patients' Lives
At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety, and value in the discovery, development, and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments, and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world's premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments, and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 150 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.Pfizer.com.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arabian Business
3 days ago
- Arabian Business
Adam El-Daba on solving Africa's vaccine crisis and investing in purpose-driven business
At first glance, Adam El-Daba could be mistaken for a textbook high-growth entrepreneur – CEO of El Daba Holding, founder of Gennecs Pharmaceuticals, principal investor in Gennvax, and angel backer of over 18 companies across five countries. But beneath the bullet points is a deeper motivation. For El-Daba, business has never been about following the market – it's about serving the moment. It's about identifying overlooked needs and delivering real-world solutions with precision, empathy, and scale. 'If there's a common thread behind everything I do, it's impact – paired with timing,' he says. 'I'm drawn to ventures where I can help build something that moves people's lives forward, whether that's through housing, nutrition, or healthcare access. But timing is crucial.' That instinct has enabled him to thrive across sectors most investors steer away from. It's a strategy that puts him in spaces where complexity reigns – from vaccine innovation to commodities trading and sustainable food systems. 'Most investors avoid them because of the complexity or long ROI cycles. That's exactly why I lean in. I'm comfortable with complexity – and I'm not afraid of building where others hesitate, especially if the need is urgent and the impact is real.' The vaccine gap that sparked a movement El-Daba's foray into healthcare wasn't born from market analysis or sectoral trend reports – it was born from a visceral, emotional reaction to a problem most global investors overlook. 'What opened my eyes – and frankly shocked me – was discovering that Africa needs over 1.3 billion vaccine doses each year, yet receives no more than 60–70 per cent of that,' he explains. 'Imagine how many children are denied a fair, healthy start in life because of that gap.' Then came the statistic that changed everything: 99.9 per cent of Africa's vaccines are imported. 'I knew I couldn't look away. I invested time, energy, and capital to understand why this gap exists – and how we could help close it.' That commitment became the blueprint for Gennecs and Gennvax – one focused on affordable therapeutics, the other on full-cycle vaccine production. 'We're not just another pharmaceutical company. We're an answer to a deeply entrenched problem.' Gennvax is now building one of Africa's first end-to-end vaccine manufacturing facilities in Egypt – designed to meet both local and continental demand, while reducing dependence on imports. 'Our edge lies in blending world-class R&D and regulatory standards with local insight and speed. We're not trying to replicate someone else's model – we're building a new one, tailored for the Middle East and Africa, with global partnerships, WHO alignment, and an unapologetic focus on access and equity.' But El-Daba is quick to point out that such a bold undertaking is not a solo act. 'Of course, none of this would be possible without our partners. Their belief, support, and technical expertise are the engine behind the mission. Together, we're proving that Africa doesn't have to wait in line for innovation – we can lead.' Founder-first investing, not idea-first El-Daba's reputation as an angel investor is well-earned, but his thesis is different from the norm. 'To be honest, I don't invest in ideas – I invest in people. And not just any people – the kind who are ready for the rollercoaster, not just the highlight reel.' What he seeks in founders is not polish or pedigree but resilience, clarity, and shared purpose. 'In every company I'm involved with, the founders aren't just colleagues – they're family. And the flavour that makes the whole dish come together? That's the rest of the team, who I also consider family. Everyone brings their own spice, and if the kitchen's working, you've got a recipe for something special.' 'I'm hands-on, but not hovering. I empower my teams as much as possible, but I'm also not afraid to dive deep into the details. Whether it's biotech, commodities, or tech, I make it a point to understand the technical side – not just the business case.' His own origin story as a founder reflects this ethos. 'Back in my early 20s, I was working for a company in Toronto… great salary, great growth. Then I made what most people would call a ridiculous decision: I quit. No real-world business experience. No MBA. No fallback plan. Just belief and a gut feeling that I wanted to build something of my own.' 'The first couple of apps we built were total flops. I still remember the sting – but I also remember how we kept going. And eventually, one of those risks turned into a company that changed everything.' 'Sometimes the worst decisions on paper are the ones that shape your future the most.' Building institutions that outlast the founder What sets El-Daba apart isn't just scale or diversification, but his systems thinking. 'Leadership isn't one-size-fits-all – it's more like tailoring a suit to fit each team. But one rule holds everywhere: people matter most. I lead with clarity and empathy, and I listen – even when I already have an answer. The biggest lesson I've learned across sectors? Collaboration beats control. The best ideas often come from where you least expect them – if you're open enough to hear them.' At El Daba Holding, this mindset manifests in multi-sector growth anchored in local relevance. 'I try not to focus too much on the role we want to play – instead, I focus on the steps we can take today to make a small, meaningful difference.' The healthcare vertical has become one of the most defining. 'If what we're doing gives just one investor the confidence to bet on this region, then we've already made a dent.' El-Daba sees legacy through a personal lens. 'The immediate definition that comes to mind is: my father. If you truly want to understand legacy – not just as a word, but as a living example – then he's the blueprint. I might be biased (or definitely am), but anyone who knows him and is reading this will agree without hesitation.' 'Legacy isn't just about what people say after you're gone – it's about the quiet respect, admiration, and impact you carry while you're still here.' Off the pitch, on point When El-Daba isn't launching healthcare ventures or scaling region-wide operations, he's either mentoring future founders or playing football. And for him, the two aren't so different. 'Football, for me, isn't just a sport – it's a leadership masterclass in disguise. It teaches you how to trust your team, adapt your strategy on the fly, and most importantly, how to stop chasing the ball and start reading the game.' He sees himself not as a traditional CEO, but as a guide on the pitch. 'I'm more of the player-coach guiding the team to reach their full potential, making sure no one's afraid to try, fail, or learn.' 'If you're afraid to shoot, you'll never score (and yes, I've definitely missed a few open goals myself).' Philanthropy, mentorship, and sport are not sidelines – they are how he tests ideas, builds community, and stays grounded. 'I always walk in thinking I'm going to teach – and leave realising I've been the one learning… You not only pick up new insights, but you learn how to work with character, how to listen better, and how to build trust in all directions. It's like football with fewer shin injuries… and maybe a plate of good food on the side.' As for how he wants to be remembered? He answers with the same clarity that has defined his ventures. 'If people look back and say, 'He built bridges where others saw borders – and he made us laugh while doing it,' I'll happily take that epitaph.'
Zawya
4 days ago
- Zawya
Opella Egypt expands youth development efforts with second cohort of UpGrads Internship Program
Egypt – Opella Egypt is scaling up its commitment to youth empowerment, geared towards enhancing the local healthcare ecosystem with the return of its flagship internship initiative, UpGrads. Now in its second year, the structured, hybrid internship program is set to welcome around 100 students from across Egypt this summer, nearly doubling its inaugural cohort of 60 participants. At its core, UpGrads is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world experience. Over a six-week period starting on July 15, pharmacy students will engage in a well-defined learning journey that combines virtual classrooms, on-the-ground field training, and mentorship from industry professionals. Participants will explore diverse functions within Opella - focusing on sales operations - building practical skills while stepping into the real pace of the fast-moving consumer healthcare (FMCH) industry. As part of the program, students will be immersed in weekly virtual skill-building workshops, complemented by in-field rotations where they act as pharmacists, merchandisers, medical representatives, and marketeers. The program concludes with a formal certification, equipping participants to take confident steps into their future careers. Dr. Ahmed El Kamhawy, Country Head of Opella Egypt: ' At Opella, we believe growth starts with bold opportunity. UpGrads is more than an internship - it's a purpose-driven launchpad for the next generation of healthcare leaders. We're proud to extend this journey to more students this year, with a best-in-class curriculum rooted in learning, responsibility, and real-world impact. ' Applications for participation in the program will continue until June 25. To apply, all candidates need to send their CV that includes name, address, phone number, year of study and e-mail address to Strategic partnerships for a stronger healthcare future Opella's youth empowerment vision goes hand-in-hand with its commitment to building stronger, more collaborative healthcare ecosystems. UpGrads, which was launched last year and is now in its second year running, will begin again in July 2025. It sits alongside UpGrads Pro, a complementary program developed in partnership with the Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA). Through UpGrads Pro, the company continues to help pharmacy students in their final year with on-the-job exposure in sales and marketing, cross-functional placements, and guided mentorship, aligned with the national framework for the mandatory training year for pharmacy graduates (Ministerial Decision No. 967 of 2023). Since its inception, UpGrads Pro has supported 77 pharmacy students across various Egyptian universities as they complete their mandatory training year. Through the program, Opella ensures these students graduate with more than -just a degree - they leave with clarity, confidence, and career readiness. Together, these initiatives reflect Opella's ongoing commitment to youth capability building, workforce sustainability, and the broader mission of putting Health in Your Hands. In Egypt, Opella is rapidly shaping a new chapter in self-care with the vision of making it as simple as should be. Backed by a global mission and local ambition, our trusted brands, including Telfast, Doliprane, Bronchicum, Enterogermina, Maalox, Nasacort, Maxilase, Bisolvon and Buscopan, serve millions of consumers each year. Nationwide, Opella is investing in youth development, healthcare access, and digital engagement to meet real needs in real lives. About Opella Opella is the self-care challenger with third-largest portfolio in the Over-The-Counter (OTC) & Vitamins, Minerals & Supplements (VMS) market globally. Our mission is to bring health in people's hands by making self-care as simple as it should be. For half a billion consumers worldwide – and counting. At the core of this mission is our 100 loved brands, our 11,000-strong global team, our 13 best-in-class manufacturing sites and 4 specialized science and innovation development centers. Headquartered in France, Opella is the proud maker of many of the world's most loved brands, including Telfast, Doliprane, Bronchicum, Enterogermina, Maalox, Nasacort, Maxilase, Bisolvon and Buscopan. B Corp certified in multiple markets, we are active players in the journey towards healthier people and planet. Find out more about our mission at Press contacts Begum Ozbek. @ Asmaa All trademarks mentioned in this press release are the property of Opella.
Arabian Post
4 days ago
- Arabian Post
China Braces for Summer COVID Surge amid NB.1.8.1 Spread
Health authorities and clinicians across China are warning of a significant surge in COVID‑19 infections this July, driven by the NB.1.8.1 variant—a descendant of the JN.1 lineage that now dominates the country's caseload. Public health officials in Hong Kong and Taiwan have already responded to rising case numbers with renewed masking guidance and hospital preparations. In May, the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention identified NB.1.8.1 as the principal agent behind the sharp rise in cases nationwide, mirroring similar trends across Asian neighbours. Evidence from CDC screening in the United States detected NB.1.8.1 infections among travellers from Asia between late April and mid‑May, reinforcing concerns over its transmissibility. Preliminary Chinese research indicates the variant may bind more effectively to human cells than predecessors, potentially accelerating its spread. Hospital insiders in China refer to an uptick in 'white lung' patterns—dense opacifications on chest scans—and sudden deaths among previously healthy middle‑aged adults, although experts emphasise the term remains colloquial and lacks precise medical definition. At the same time, nothing yet suggests the emergence of a new pathogen. Health agencies, including the WHO, note the wave aligns with rising circulation of known respiratory agents—COVID‑19, influenza, RSV and mycoplasma—without evidence of an unusual strain. ADVERTISEMENT Hospitals in Beijing and Liaoning report increased admission volumes, with clinics in cities like Dalian and Chongqing grappling with larger-than-normal respiratory caseloads. Despite this, national health statements have stressed that surveillance shows no new pathogens, attributing the climb to seasonal factors and immunological gaps following post‑lockdown easing. Regional governments have reinstated basic safeguards—including mask recommendations on mass transit and in healthcare settings—in response to the epidemiological models forecasting July peaks. Authorities in Taiwan have also begun stockpiling vaccines and antivirals in anticipation of increased demand. Global health bodies are closely monitoring: CDC representatives in the U.S. maintain active communication with counterparts in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan regarding variant spread. Several cases of NB.1.8.1 have been recorded at U.S. ports of entry, though limited sequencing has so far prevented it from showing up prominently in national variant dashboards. In vaccine policy circles, U.S. regulators are debating updates for the autumn season, with mRNA manufacturers presenting candidate boosters targeting JN.1 lineages—such as LP.8.1—that could also offer immunity against NB.1.8.1. Metapneumovirus, an endemic respiratory pathogen, was also notably active during winter 2024–2025 in China, accounting for over 6 per cent of positive respiratory illness tests and hospitalisations. Health officials affirmed this activity was consistent with typical seasonal patterns. Medical experts stress that while chest imaging showing 'white-out' lung appearance can be alarming, it is not indicative of a novel syndrome; it occurs with severe pneumonia from various known agents. Treatment protocols remain standard, including antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia and antivirals when appropriate.
