Tedros urges for equitable vaccine allocation, says “Me First" approach will only prolong the pandemic

New Delhi: The chief of the World Health Organisation said on Monday that the world was on the brink of a "catastrophic moral failure" on equitable access of coronavirus vaccines, urging countries and manufacturers to share Covid-19 doses more fairly around the globe.

Speaking at the opening of the WHO's annual Executive Board session, Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed that the development and approval of safe and effective Covid vaccine in less than a year of its emergence is a stunning scientific achievement. However, he cautioned that promise of equitable access is at serious risk and the unequal distribution of vaccines between the 'haves' and 'have nots' is the real threat the world is going to face.

“It's right, that governments want to prioritize vaccinating their own health workers and older people first. But it's not right that younger, healthier adults in rich countries are vaccinated before health workers, and older people in poorer countries,” he said.

Tedros cited as an example of inequality that more than 39 million doses of vaccine have been administered in 49 higher-income countries whereas just 25 doses had been given in one poor country.

“Even as they speak the language of equitable access, some countries and companies continue to prioritize bilateral deals, going around COVAX, driving prices and attempting to jump to the front of the queue. This is wrong, " said the WHO head.

"44 bilateral deals were signed last year and at least 12 have already been signed this year. The situation is compounded by the fact that most manufacturers have prioritized regulatory approval in rich countries where the profits are highest rather than submitting full doses to WHO. This could delay COVAX deliveries and create exactly the scenario COVAX was designed to avoid, with hoarding, a chaotic market, an uncoordinated response, and continued social and economic disruption," he further added.

Tedros warned saying, “Not only does this "Me First" approach leave the world's poorest and most vulnerable people at risk. It's also self-defeating and ultimately these actions will only prolong the pandemic, prolong our pain, the restrictions needed to contain it and human and economic suffering.”

A recent study estimated that the economic benefits of equitable vaccine allocation for 10 high-income countries would be at least $153 billion in 2021, rising to $466 billion by 2025, he stated.

Tedros urged everyone to work together as one global family to prioritize those most at risk of severe disease and death in all countries. “I call on all countries to work together in solidarity, to ensure that within the first 100 days of this year, vaccination of health workers and older people is underway in all countries, it's in the best interest of each and every nation on Earth.”