The world has COVID-19 vaccines, so when will we get vaccinated?

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Different Types of Vaccines Worldwide

Domestic Vaccines

OK, OK. So when do I get vaccinated?

Prioritized Individuals

These days, everyone knows that the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine has started administration in the UK and is gradually gaining approvals for widespread distribution in the coming days. This is undoubtedly a major achievement for humanity, acquiring a powerful weapon to combat SARS-CoV-2 in a short period (almost a year). But the question remains - when will we get vaccinated?

Different Types of Vaccines Worldwide

Besides the Pfizer vaccine, in collaboration with BioNTech, seeking approvals globally for official and proper administration, there are several 'trickster' vaccines taking unconventional routes for approval (Sinovac, Sputnik V). Initially, with nearly 200 vaccines in development, the number has narrowed down to 15, nearing completion of clinical trials for approval. About 57 vaccines are in the early human trial stages, and approximately 86 are undergoing animal testing. The most promising ones are the new-generation vaccines, leveraging improved research and production methods to expedite the process, exemplified by Pfizer and Moderna. Others are in phase 2 or 3 clinical trials or a combination of both. Not to forget some facing setbacks, like the Sanofi and GSK collaboration, requiring a step back for further research.

Domestic Vaccines

OK, OK. So when do I get vaccinated?

Assuming we are sure to have a vaccine, when will we get vaccinated to fight against this virus? It depends on which vaccine source we get first and whether it's abundant enough for the public.

By importing from foreign sources, we haven't finalized any purchases yet. Vaccines like Pfizer's may not be immediately available in Vietnam in the first batch. If so, we'll have to wait until it's distributed through WHO's COVAX, potentially not until the end of 2021, and the quantity will be limited. The most accessible vaccine so far is Russia's Sputnik V, but due to its circumvented route, many countries reject it. However, we've been promised to have a vaccine, and the timing remains uncertain. There's little information about the Chinese vaccines ordered by the government.So, to get vaccinated earliest and safest, it still depends on the homegrown source. According to the schedule, by May 2021, if everything goes smoothly, Vietnamese people will have the Vietnamese vaccine. BUT even then, it won't be the turn of healthy young individuals like most of us. Similar to other countries, vaccination will prioritize the most vulnerable groups to the virus.

Prioritized Individuals

At the forefront are healthcare workers, those on the frontlines during outbreaks. Due to their direct patient care, the risk of infection is high. If even one person gets infected, it can impact numerous patients.Second in line are the elderly, individuals whose immune systems have weakened over time. Especially if they have underlying conditions, they are more susceptible to the virus. This was evident in the recent outbreak in Da Nang, where the virus directly hit the city's hospital, leading to a wave of doctors and nurses falling ill. The nephrology department, in particular, witnessed many patients, mostly elderly or with severe underlying conditions, succumbing to the disease.

Ranked third are teachers and those involved in community-related activities. These individuals interact with a large number of people daily, posing a risk of becoming a super spreader if, unfortunately, they contract the virus. In the UK, there are suggestions to include bank employees in this group as they also interact with numerous customers daily, sitting face-to-face for transactions, increasing the risk.

So, if you belong to any of these groups, you might be prioritized for vaccination when it arrives in Vietnam or after our research is complete. Spending 120,000 VND for a dose isn't too expensive, equivalent to just three bowls of pho 😁. However, if you're still in the young and healthy age group, it's best to adhere to preventive measures like thorough handwashing, wearing masks, and limiting contact while waiting for the right time.

Wishing everyone good health during this pandemic season.

Image Laodong, 1, 2, 3

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