Inequality in vaccine distribution leads to spread of new COVID-19 strains - UN

Inequality in the distribution of vaccines leads to the active spread of new strains of COVID-19 and the continuation of economic problems, Report informs, citing RIA Novosti that this was stated by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, on Thursday, addressing a joint press conference with the World Health Organization dedicated to the equal distribution of vaccines.

“Vaccine inequalities are helping and propelling the COVID-19 pandemic. It allows new strains to develop and spread rapidly, leading the world to millions of new deaths and prolonging economic closures that could cost trillions of dollars,” he said.

He noted that the refusal from equitable distribution of vaccines is not only immoral, but also stupid. At the same time, Guterres acknowledged that the UN and WHO lack the power to force countries to organize vaccination companies, distribute vaccines differently, or lift WTO restrictions on protecting the intellectual property of drug manufacturers so that everyone can gain access to technology.

"The situation is unprecedented. We need to use all means to fight the pandemic. So the WHO and the UN are supporting all means, including the abandonment of vaccine patents, so that everyone can access the technology," he concluded.