Islamabad: 25 July 2021 (TDI): In new research “Global Dashboard for Vaccine” by Blavatnik School, WHO and UNDP observe the emerging phenomenon of vaccine inequality. The report predicts severe long-term socio-economic effects on low-income countries. The report is a part of the joint effort in line with SDG 3 of the Global Action Plan for Healthy Lives and Well-being for all.
Vaccine equality calls for equal distribution of vaccines irrespective of socio-economic developmental status and only on the basis of the human right to health.
According to the report, the total vaccine administered remains strikingly low in lower-income countries, highlighting the vaccine distribution disparity. In high-income countries, 1 in 2 people have been vaccinated and in low-income countries, only 1 in every 75 people have been vaccinated as of July 2021. Moreover, the vaccine cost and distribution is a problem for low-income countries. The report shows the cost of US$ 3.7 for every person vaccinated with the complete doses, whereas in low-income countries, it is US$ 41 per annual per capita average. All in all, the report provides a chance for global policymakers to set equitable policies for global vaccine distribution in place.
