UK Authorizes Merck Antiviral Pill, 1st Shown To Treat COVID

A new COVID pill developed by Ridgeback Biotherapeutics and Burke has been approved in the UK, marking a significant milestone as the first oral medication for the virus. The pill, which can be taken at home, targets an enzyme to prevent the virus from multiplying, reducing the risk of severe disease by half. The UK has already ordered 480,000 courses, and other countries like Australia and Singapore have also made purchase agreements. While the UK sees stabilizing COVID cases, the pill is a welcome addition to treatment options. Other companies, including Pfizer and Roche, are working on similar treatments, with the FDA set to review the pill's safety and efficacy soon.

What new insight or understanding did you gain from this video?