COVID-19 Vaccines Finally Arrive, What’s Next?

Since the early days of the pandemic, having a vaccine has been what everyone was hoping to see. Now that we have some companies across the world that have had their vaccines pass over three trials, it is safe to say that we have made some significant progress in the battle with COVID-19. 

Several countries have already ordered these vaccines, with Canada and the USA having the highest number of vaccines pre-ordered per capita. Estimates show that billions of vaccines have already been pre-ordered. However, most of these pre-orders have been made by rich countries that include the likes of the USA, Germany, China, UK, Canada, etc. 

In the next few months, a good number of activities could start operating at full capacity like they were before the pandemic. For instance, entertainment and sporting events could resume having all the fans back as long they have proof of being vaccinated. 

Inventing a COVID-19 vaccine in less than a year is also a massive milestone to the medical since many had projected the vaccine to be ready in about 18 months. However, most of these vaccines’ long-term side effects are still unknown, but we just hope for the best. 

Due to several limitations in the production and distribution of this vaccine, it will not be possible for everyone to be vaccinated immediately. In the USA, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice voted for the 21 million health workers to be the first to get the available vaccines. This will likely be the trend in several other countries that are yet to receive their vaccines. 

With estimates showing over 5 billion doses ready by the end of 2021, a significant percentage of the world population will likely be immunized by 2021. However, half of these doses have been ordered by the EU (27 countries) and six other high-income countries. 

Experts predict that low and middle income countries may have to wait till 2023 or 2024 to have a significant percentage of their population immunized. The good news for the low-income countries is that WHO and two non-profits supported by Bill Gates have partnered to provide a billion doses to 92 low-income countries. 

The leading companies involved in creating the COVID-19 vaccine include AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, and Gamaleya. These are the companies that have had the interim results of their trials announced. Several other companies are working on this vaccine, with their interim results yet to be announced. 

Currently, Pfizer and BioNTech have set the initial price at $19.50 a dose. Several other companies will likely have their fees within the same range. However, due to limited supply, prices may vary based on when you get the vaccine and where you are located.