Russia vaccine 'passes early trial test'

23 Sept 03:22 Key points summarised by AI

Russia's 'Sputnik V' coronavirus vaccine showed promising early results, with patients developing antibodies and experiencing no serious adverse events in initial small-scale trials, as reported in The Lancet.
Experts cautioned that these trials, involving 38 healthy adults each, were too small and lacked randomization to conclusively prove the vaccine's safety and effectiveness.
Despite early approval by Russia, researchers acknowledge the necessity for larger, longer, and more rigorous Phase 3 clinical trials with 40,000 volunteers to establish long-term efficacy and safety.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.