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Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- combat /kuhm-BAT/
- vaccine /vak-SEEN/
- underlying /UHN-der-lahy-ing/
- chronic /KRON-ik/
- scrutiny /SKROOT-n-ee/
[verb] – to try to stop something unpleasant or harmful from happening or increasing
Despite their best efforts to combat the spread of the virus, the number of cases continued to rise.
[noun] – a substance that is put into the body of a person or animal to protect them from a disease by causing them to produce antibodies
Scientists have been working tirelessly to develop a vaccine for the new strain of the flu.
[adjective] – real but not immediately obvious
The underlying issue in the company’s financial problems was poor management.
[adjective] – (especially of a disease or something bad) continuing for a long time
His chronic back pain made it difficult for him to lead a normal, active life.
[noun] – the careful and detailed examination of something in order to get information about it
The financial records of the company were under scrutiny by the auditors to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has made significant strides in combating respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a contagious illness that can mimic the flu and pose serious risks, especially to older adults. GSK’s Arexvy vaccine, initially approved for individuals aged 60 and above, has shown promise in protecting a broader demographic, including those aged 50 to 59. Early data indicates that this vaccine could be a shield for those in the younger age bracket, particularly if they have underlying medical conditions like chronic lung ailments, heart diseases, or diabetes. GSK’s plan is to present these findings to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), paving the way for potential approval and thereby widening the vaccine’s availability. Currently, Arexvy is accessible to those aged 60 and older.
The journey toward this groundbreaking development involved an extensive Phase 3 trial aimed at determining the vaccine’s efficacy in individuals aged 50 to 59 with these medical conditions. Although the preliminary results appear promising, they have yet to undergo scrutiny by external experts. GSK is committed to sharing the final trial outcomes at a medical conference and publishing them in a reputable journal. Furthermore, they aim to be the first company to provide data to the FDA and other regulatory agencies, with a decision anticipated in 2024. This achievement is pivotal in the battle against RSV, a virus responsible for numerous hospitalizations and fatalities, particularly among the elderly, offering a ray of hope to a wider age group and a critical step in public health.
The journey toward this groundbreaking development involved an extensive Phase 3 trial aimed at determining the vaccine’s efficacy in individuals aged 50 to 59 with these medical conditions. Although the preliminary results appear promising, they have yet to undergo scrutiny by external experts. GSK is committed to sharing the final trial outcomes at a medical conference and publishing them in a reputable journal. Furthermore, they aim to be the first company to provide data to the FDA and other regulatory agencies, with a decision anticipated in 2024. This achievement is pivotal in the battle against RSV, a virus responsible for numerous hospitalizations and fatalities, particularly among the elderly, offering a ray of hope to a wider age group and a critical step in public health.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you or someone you know ever been diagnosed with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or a similar contagious illness? If yes, could you share the challenges and experiences faced during the illness? If not, do you feel more compelled to consider vaccinations for such illnesses, given the potential impact highlighted in the article?
- Considering the age-specific approval of GSK’s Arexvy vaccine initially for individuals aged 60 and above, have you or someone you know in that age group received this vaccine? If yes, what was the experience like, and do you think it has had a positive impact on health? If not, would you or someone in that age range be open to getting vaccinated with Arexvy or a similar vaccine based on the information presented in the article?
- Do you believe the potential approval of GSK’s Arexvy vaccine for individuals aged 50 to 59, based on the preliminary data, is a significant milestone in combating respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?
- What are the potential implications of expanding the approval of GSK’s Arexvy vaccine to include individuals aged 50 to 59, especially those with underlying medical conditions? How might this impact public health, and what challenges or considerations should be addressed in implementing such an expansion?
- In the context of GSK aiming to present findings to the FDA and regulatory agencies for potential approval, what ethical considerations should be taken into account in the dissemination of trial results? How can transparency in the vaccine development process contribute to public trust, and what safeguards should be in place to ensure the safety and efficacy of vaccines before wider distribution?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- administration
- anticipate
- determine
- journal
- numerous