Ensuring fair allocation of COVID-19 vaccines: Recommended strategies and justification

Abstract

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to claim lives of the infected people and disrupt the routine functioning of all domains of lives. The development of a vaccine seems the only major tool which can prevent the acquisition of cases and bring an end to the pandemic. As on 11 November 2021, eight different vaccine manufacturers have been given permission to roll out their vaccines in different nations, with the first priority being offered to those who belong to vulnerable population groups. Considering the fact that the number of available vaccines will be less in initial time, it is essential to give priority to some specific groups and then gradually expand the reach of vaccine to everyone, once the supply increases. In conclusion, the ultimate aim of policy makers should be to ensure the availability and accessibility of COVID-19 vaccines to all those who could be benefited by the vaccine. However, it is a challenging task and a lot of planning and preparedness are required in each nation to ensure the safety of people.