Vaccine inequity is a pressing issue that has been brought to light once more with the release of the World Health Organisation’s ‘Global Vaccine Market Report 2022.’ This report focuses on implications of Covid-19 for vaccine markets, and it is the first of its kind to address disparities in vaccine distribution, particularly regarding low-income countries’ access.
Vaccine Inequity: A Persistent Issue
The WHO report reveals that vaccine inequality is not just limited to Covid-19 vaccines. Low-income countries consistently struggle to access in-demand vaccines that are readily available to high-income nations. Inequitable access is mainly due to limited vaccine supply and unbalanced distribution. For instance, the HPV vaccine against cervical cancer, despite being crucial for the disease burden in these countries, is only introduced in 41% of low-income nations compared to 83% in high-income ones.
Affordability and Price Disparities
Beyond access, affordability also proves to be a significant hurdle to vaccine procurement. Prices tend to be tiered by income level, creating disparities where middle-income countries may end up paying as much or even more than wealthier nations for certain vaccines.
Implications of Free-Market Dynamics
Free market dynamics further aggravate the issue of vaccine inequity. The poor and most vulnerable populations globally are being stripped of their right to health. Therefore, there’s an urgent need for changes in the global vaccine market to save lives, prevent disease, and prepare for future crises.
Scaling up during Health Emergencies
In 2021 alone, approximately 16 billion vaccine doses were supplied, nearly thrice as many as in 2019. This surge, mainly driven by Covid-19 vaccines, showcases the potential to scale up vaccine manufacturing in response to health emergencies.
Concentrated Manufacturing Base and Its Risks
Even though manufacturing capacity has surged, it remains highly concentrated, with 70% of vaccine doses provided by just ten manufacturers. This concentration leads to risks of shortages and regional supply insecurity. Intellectual property monopolies and limited technology transfer also hinder the development and usage of local manufacturing capacities.
Faltering Investment in Non-Covid-19 Vaccines
The report expresses concern over the limited investment in vaccines other than those for Covid-19. This lack of focus on vaccines for diseases like cholera, typhoid, smallpox/monkeypox, Ebola, and meningococcal disease could potentially have devastating effects on public health.
Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030)
The IA2030 goals are highlighted in the report as opportunities for aligning vaccine development, production, and distribution with a public health agenda. This would also inform pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response efforts.
Recommendations for Governments and Industries
The report recommends that governments devise clear immunization plans and invest more aggressively in vaccine development, production, and distribution. Establishing pre-agreed rules for government collaboration in times of scarcity is also suggested. The industry should focus on research for WHO priority pathogens, ensure transparency, facilitate technology transfer, and commit to equity-driven allocation measures. International organizations and partners should prioritize the IA2030 goals and support country-driven initiatives.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
In context of UPSC Civil Services Examination, past year questions related to vaccines manufactured to prevent Covid-19 pandemic have been provided. This includes a factual comparison of different vaccines, their development platforms and efficacy.
Last Modified: February 18, 2024