Some 172 countries are currently engaged with the COVAX facility designed to ensure equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines once they are authorised for use, the World Health Organization said.
However, more funding is required and countries need now to make binding commitments, the specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health stated.
Media briefing on #COVID19 with @DrTedros https://t.co/gD6iL4ExSz
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) August 24, 2020
Countries that wish to be part of the global COVAX plan have until August 31 to submit their expressions of interest with confirmation of intention to join due by 18th September, and initial payments due by October 9, WHO officials said.
“We’re working with vaccine manufacturers to provide all countries that join the effort timely and equitable access to all vaccines, licensed and approved. This doesn’t just pool risk, it also means that prices will be kept as low as possible,” said WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
“The world has so far invested USD12 trillion in keeping economies moving. Investing in the COVAX Facility is the fastest way to end this COVID-19 pandemic and ensure a sustainable economic recovery,” he added.
Mr Tedros noted the goal of the mechanism is to deliver at least 2 billion doses of safe, effective vaccines by the end of 2021.
