Why Is The Equal Distribution Model Important For Covid-19 Vaccine?
-
Alaina
- . November 22, 2020
- . Update: June 14, 2021 6:39 pm
The race to get the most effective and wide spectrum vaccine to combat the novel virus is still on. The problem facing the world is how to provide for poorer nations that are not participating in developing a vaccine on their own. Some of these nations or provinces are being used for clinical trials but might not be on the gaining end after all.
The WHO is trying to ensure that history does not repeat itself as in case of the swine flu where wealthy nations were able to procure the vaccine ahead of mass distribution. A landmark global vaccine plan known as Covax is seeking to ensure an equitable distribution of future coronavirus vaccines. As a joint initiative between the Gavi vaccines alliance, the WHO and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), this initiative will ensure that participating countries inoculate at least 20% of their populations.
In the first stage of distribution, priority will be given to medical staff and care workers, then the elderly and high-risk patients and later the rest of the population. According to official estimates, there are almost 55 million cases of individuals infected by the virus. As many as 1.3 million people have already lost their lives to the virus. Two companies are confirming a coverage of 93% through their vaccine. These include Pfizer and Moderna. Many are still in late stage trials but none is giving a 100percent result without any side-affects.
According to medical experts, no single vaccine can be side-affect free. Most vaccines do deliver ‘reactogenic’ side effects that are usual in nature. The two American companies are guaranteeing better results. Strangely, the potential vaccine doses are already been hoarded by various countries. According to a study conducted by the American Duke University in North Carolina, an estimate 6.4 billion doses have already been bought. Another 3.2 billion are also under consideration over extended deals.
While this is considered standard practice, it is only going to be fair incentivize strategy provided the formula could be replicated or shared with other countries. It becomes like a losing battle for those who do not have the financial resources to procure and develop their own vaccine.
Some countries are not even sure which ones would really be effective. As a result, they are procuring them like a rush for toilet paper. This includes India, the EU, the US, Canada and the UK according to the latest data. Some middle-income countries are using different ways to procure the vaccine. Brazil for example has given its territory for clinical trials while others with manufacturing capacity are helping with offshore infrastructural support.
India and Canada are willing to share their quota with low-income countries. But this is not a viable solution. It is important that the world comes together and creates a kind of pool of the vaccine in order humanity is served in the longer run. The Covax is a good plan, provided nations cooperate and don’t land up doing side deals to siphon doses.
