The role of social mobilisers during COVID-19

How one social mobiliser in South Sudan has managed to contribute to health security in her region.

  • 17 September 2020
  • 3 min read
  • by Gavi Staff
GAVI/South Sudan/Mike Pflanz
GAVI/South Sudan/Mike Pflanz

 

Viola Ropan Festos, a 28-year-old woman in South Sudan, dedicates her time travelling from village to village in remote parts of the Yei River county in the Central Equatoria State, talking to people. It’s an important job, aimed at raising awareness about the role of immunisation among people in villages that have limited health facilities. One of 60 social mobilisers in the region, her task is to create and sustain demand for immunisation services within communities to ensure that people are fully protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. Part of an innovative initiative called the Rescue Initiative of South Sudan (TRISS), commissioned by UNICEF and funded by Gavi, such efforts are having a real impact in helping to amplify vaccination coverage in villages, like Erap. By scaling-up routine immunisation in this region, social mobilisers like Festos are helping to ensure that no one is left behind.

One of 60 social mobilisers in the region, her task is to create and sustain demand for immunisation services within communities to ensure that people are fully protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.

One effective strategy includes the engagement of influential members of society, such as religious leaders and teachers, to educate the community about the benefits of routine immunisation. When Festos herself was pregnant, she acted as a role model for mothers in the village, educating them about misconceptions and encouraging them to visit health facilities. Festos’ goal is to ensure that all children younger than one year, as well as women of reproductive age, are fully vaccinated in these typically deprived populations.

The COVID-19 pandemic has added challenges to this work, but Festos has not let it stop her from advocating for the importance of routine immunisation. Instead, she has combined her vaccine awareness sessions with COVID-19 preventative measure explanations – emphasising the importance of routine immunisation during the pandemic.

TRISS is part of a broader effort to close the immunisation gaps in South Sudan. Through Gavi support, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has expanded its routine immunisation services across the states of Upper Nile, Unity and Western Bahr el Gazal. In Malakal County, Bam Primary Health Care Centre’s (PHCC) lack of funding is preventing it from being able to provide basic health services and immunisation to the Sudanese people. Thus, in November 2019, the IOM diversified its immunisation activities within Bam PHCC and began donating cold boxes and vaccines to the health facility while organising mobile vaccination activities every week. Through the commitment of health workers, the health-seeking behaviour of caregivers and Gavi’s support, Bam PHCC has vaccinated over 1,800 children in the region.

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Five crucial years, one unprecedented new pandemic and 324 million children immunised

Even with the adversities and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic through 2020, Gavi maintained unyielding focus on leaving no one behind.

COVID-19 vaccinations help restore family links in Kenya’s prisons

Inmates in Kenya’s prison system have been banned from seeing family members for over a year and a half. A vaccination campaign.

Vaccine profiles: Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B kills more people each year than AIDS-related illnesses, yet an effective vaccine exists. Ensuring every child has access to it is crucial to fighting back.

Vaccine profiles: Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Before immunisation for Hib became routine, it was one of the biggest killers of children under five and the main cause of meningitis. High vaccine coverage is essential to keep that threat at bay, especially given rising antimicrobial resistance…

Protecting prisoners in Malawi

Malawi prisoners are at higher risk of getting COVID 19; vaccines are helping to contain the spread.

COVID could wreak havoc on gorillas, but they social distance better than we do

Endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s famous Volcanoes National Park could face “population collapse” within 50 years if some of them contract COVID-19, new research suggests.

COVID-19 wreaks havoc on the Kenyan entertainment industry

While there are those who have thrived, for most entertainers in Kenya COVID-19 came close to decimating the sector.

Q&A: Designing a shock-proof health system

How do we ensure resilient health systems and immunisation programmes that can bounce back from future health threats? In this Q&A with Gustavo Correa, Gavi’s Senior Manager for Data systems and Information, and Josh Wunderlich, Gavi…

Doctors, scientists or politicians: who are you most likely to trust after the pandemic?

Doctors are rated as trustworthy by almost two-thirds of people, according to the Ipsos Global Trustworthiness Index 2021. Scientists came in second, at 61% and teachers third, at 55%. How to restore trust is a key and growing theme for…

Without global vaccination, all COVID immunity is at risk

A year from now, instead of potentially entering the pandemic endgame, we could find ourselves at the start of a new and perpetual cycle of revaccination or boosters for people who have already previously been protected.

The Test of Pandemic Preparedness

The COVID-19 pandemic is the product of a globalized, interconnected world. Without new mechanisms that offer truly global approaches to crisis management and prevention, the experience of the past 18 months is likely to be repeated, with…

Health is a political choice

COVAX can make even more of a difference if governments stop hoarding vaccine doses and allow the free flow of these crucial supplies.

No one is safe until everyone is safe

To end the pandemic, the virus needs to be stamped out simultaneously across the world, but government hoarding and export restrictions are getting in the way of making this happen.

What COVID-19 is teaching us about human milk and antibodies

Dr Rebecca Powell is on a quest to understand the immune response to infection and vaccination in breastmilk, in the hope of designing maternal vaccines to boost babies’ protection against disease.

The walls speak for the vulnerable in Luanda

Oksanna Dias has been using street art to draw attention to the challenges of the women of Luanda.

Injectable rotavirus vaccines – what value could they bring?

Currently in advanced development, these next-generation rotavirus vaccines may address key barriers to vaccine uptake and access.

Vaccine profiles: Tetanus

The disease can kill one in five people infected, yet an effective vaccine exists. Routine tetanus immunisation saves the lives of thousands of newborns every year.

Religious leaders join chorus of support for vaccination in Nigeria

Initially silent, respected religious leaders in Nigeria are beginning to make their voices heard in support of COVID-19 vaccines.

Vaccine Ambassadors: The race to vaccinate Cameroon’s school communities

Cameroon is considering taking COVID-19 vaccines to schools amid a rise in the number of new cases.

Towards universal coverage of maternal health services in Tajikistan

Nozanin is a secondary school teacher and lives in the relatively prosperous region of Sughd, with better access to maternal health services than is found in other regions. However, medical costs are excessive for most people in the country,…

Are COVID-19 vaccines safe for teenagers and children?

Some countries are already offering COVID-19 vaccines to teenagers and may expand this to children in the near future. Here’s what we know about vaccine safety and efficacy in these groups.

COVID: how worried should we be about the new AY.4.2 lineage of the coronavirus?

This new sub-variant of the delta has gained a foothold in the UK.

What you need to know about COVID-19 vaccines and rare neurological complications

Reports of Guillain–Barré syndrome or other neurological complications following COVID-19 vaccination are understandably worrying, but the first study to robustly investigate such links has found that the risk is much greater after COVID-19…

Vaccine profiles: Pertussis

Before immunisation for pertussis, or whooping cough, became routine, it killed twice as many children as measles and polio combined. High vaccine coverage is essential to keep that threat at bay.

Togo becomes one of the first African countries to introduce digital vaccine passports

Togo is blazing a digital trail on the continent, looking to online tools, including digital vaccine passports, to curtail COVID-19.

Women Leaders in Polio Eradication: Dr. Folake Olayinka

Dr. Folake Olayinka speaks about overcoming gender-related barriers to immunization.

“A moment of immense pride and joy”: Anuradha Gupta’s eight reflections on India’s billionth COVID-19 vaccine dose

As India celebrated its one-billionth COVID-19 vaccination, #VaccinesWork caught up with Anuradha Gupta, Gavi’s Deputy CEO and an Indian public health veteran.

Combining COVID-19 and routine vaccination: Nigeria implements a “whole family” approach

The whole family approach is helping Lagos State tackle multiple disease outbreaks and helping families lead healthier lives.

A million a day: Pakistan’s COVID-19 vaccine campaign hits its stride

After a halting start to its immunisation campaign, Pakistan has shifted into high gear, now administering a million doses a day. #VaccinesWork spoke to national health leaders and spent a morning at a rural vaccination centre to find out what…

Is it a cold or COVID-19? An expert explains

Research in the UK shows COVID-19 symptoms can be similar to the common cold. So, how can you tell the difference? Here, genetic epidemiologist Professor Tim Spector explains the latest data and what you need to know.

Bringing routine immunisation back into focus in Ghana

Community health nurses in Ghana are on a mission to reverse the decline in routine immunisation since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccine profiles: Diphtheria

Before immunisation for diphtheria became routine, it was a major killer of children and adults worldwide. High vaccine coverage is essential to keep that threat at bay.

COVID and flu: how big could the dual threat be this winter?

Social distancing has shielded us from other respiratory viruses – but that's not necessarily a good thing.

Five reasons why ‘my body, my choice’ doesn’t work for vaccines

With several countries making COVID-19 vaccinations mandatory for health workers, teachers and other frontline staff, anti-vaccination protesters have co-opted the feminist slogan “my body, my choice” from reproductive rights and bodily autonomy…

Vaccines save Eswatini’s education system

The delivery of COVID-19 vaccines has brought hope for the country’s education system.

Convincing nomadic populations to get the jab in Northern Kenya

For the Gosha community, vaccines are not only protecting them from COVID-19, but are also bringing development to their area.

Ten climate actions that could boost human health

Ahead of the COP26 climate summit, the World Health Organisation flags ten priority actions necessary to protect human and planetary health.

Pandemica, a world where the pandemic goes on forever

Welcome to Pandemica, a world where twice as many people die and life as we once knew it does not return for anyone.

Delivering COVAX supplies during a supply chain crisis, the HOPE Consortium steps up support to UNICEF

First flight facilitated by the Hope Consortium touches down in Belgium with large delivery of ultra-cold chain freezers for onward shipment to 21 African countries.

”We understand how important their work is to our health”: Ordinary Nigerians unite with health workers against COVID-19

In the face of mounting logistical hitches, ordinary Nigerians are rallying behind health workers to ensure the success of COVID-19 vaccine rollout across the country.

Why we still need vaccines even if we get new COVID-19 treatments

The pharma company Merck has applied for emergency use authorisation for an experimental COVID-19 antiviral treatment but, even if approved, such therapies won’t replace vaccines.

If you’ve had COVID-19, one dose of vaccine may be as good as two: what could this mean for the global vaccination effort?

Identifying people who have recovered from COVID-19 could provide a way to accelerate protection of populations against the disease.

Without women there are no healthcare systems

The sixth annual Heroines of Health Gala celebrated seven women fighting to improve the health of their communities. From mobilising nurses in Beirut after the blast in August last year to helping communities in Ethiopia affected by the civil…

COVID: why are people testing positive on lateral flow tests then negative on PCR?

The reasons for these results have yet to be confirmed – but maths may explain the phenomenon.

No vaccine, no entry

The sports and entertainment communities of Eswatini are banking on COVID-19 vaccines to turn their fortunes around.

Review: Preventing The Next Pandemic: Vaccine Diplomacy in a Time of Anti-Science

Dr Peter J. Hotez’ timely and important book underlines the fact that we need vaccine diplomacy now more than ever to overcome threats to our health.

Mobilising mothers around immunisation in Nigeria

Going door-to-door, local community leaders are mobilising mothers to have their children immunised.

How COVID-19 is contributing to period poverty in Nigeria

Skyrocketing prices for sanitary products, supply shortages and lockdowns are combining to make it harder and harder for girls and women in Nigeria to manage their periods.

Breakthrough malaria vaccine offers to reinvigorate the fight against the disease

The WHO and the manufacturers of the vaccine will be rallying countries, particularly those with high malaria burdens, to adopt the vaccine.

Drought may affect routine immunisation in Africa, study finds

Climate change is set to transform global health. A new study has found that droughts – one product of extreme weather exacerbated by climate change – may already be impacting rates of vaccination.

Can Kenya eliminate malaria?

Kenya is aiming to eliminate malaria entirely by 2030, with the world’s first malaria vaccine forming an important tool in its arsenal. The country’s youth is playing an important role.

First ever malaria vaccine recommended by WHO: Q&A with Deepali Patel

The WHO recommendation on the RTS,S vaccine could protect millions of children across Africa.

Nobel Prize: how chili peppers helped researchers uncover how humans feel pain

These discoveries could help us treat a variety of conditions in the future – including chronic pain.

How will vaccinating camels boost uptake of COVID-19 vaccines?

Authorities in Kenyan border regions have come up with an innovative way to encourage COVID-19 vaccinations among herder communities: combine it with animal vaccination.

Further vaccine R&D is critical to end the devastating COVID-19 pandemic

It is science that we must once again turn to so that we can remain one step ahead of the virus. Increased investment in ongoing vaccine R&D efforts will enable COVAX to deliver on its promises and ensure that our vaccines remain safe and…

Head of UNAIDS unpacks the knock-on effects of COVID-19. And what needs to be done

Greater urgency is needed in the response to the pandemic, to end AIDS and to end COVID-19.

Super clean: Hand sanitiser helps prevent COVID-19, but what else is it doing to our health?

Hand sanitiser has become a regular feature of our lives since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, but how effective is it – and is it a good idea to be so clean?

The COVID-19 vaccine-shy are changing their minds

Vaccine hesitancy is “not a stable trait,” concludes a new American study, which found that a majority of initially hesitant respondents shifted their stance in favour of getting the jab.

What we really know about waning COVID-19 immunity

Vaccines are still extremely effective at preventing severe disease. Waning antibody levels doesn’t always translate to lessening immunity.

How COVID-19-related stress could be affecting your menstrual cycle

A new study suggests that more than half of women may have experienced irregularities in their periods after the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Routine immunisation worldwide holds firm despite the pandemic

Despite the havoc wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic on health systems worldwide, governments’ work to bring immunisation programmes back on track is paying off.

COVID-19 vaccines help routine immunisation become routine again in Nigeria

Routine immunisation took a hit in Nigeria thanks to the pandemic. Thanks to the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines, particularly for health workers, mothers are returning to immunisation clinics.

Vaccinating domestic dogs reduces rabies in the wild. Why this matters

Domestic dogs have been shown to be the only species necessary to maintain rabies across most of Africa. This means that dog vaccination should control the disease in all species.

More deliveries equals more demand for vaccines in South Sudan

With COVAX stepping up deliveries of COVID-19 vaccines in South Sudan, there is a steady increase in demand for the jab.

Seven COVID-19 symptoms you shouldn’t ignore

Researchers have identified seven symptoms that are highly predictive of a positive COVID-19 test.

COVAX vaccines lead drive to reopen Uganda’s schools

The Ugandan government is on a drive to vaccinate teachers to ensure the reopening of schools across the country.

What the world can learn from Bhutan’s rapid COVID vaccine rollout

Careful planning enabled this small, mountainous Himalayan country to vaccinate 90% of its adult population in three weeks.

There is no vaccine equity without gender equality

On Thursday 23 September, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, global health leaders gathered to discuss gender equality in healthcare worldwide. Here’s what happened.

Kids and COVID-19: what we know so far

Although children are less susceptible to COVID-19 than adults, there are still risks associated with infection.

Whipping the Covid-19 vaccine market into shape

The COVAX vaccine procurement facility has run a remarkable race, but needs stable funding for long-term success.

The pandemic has hurt women's health. This is why that's bad for everyone

The pandemic undermined women and girls’ fundamental rights and we must learn lessons about its impacts to build back better and ensure these groups aren't left behind. Empowering women and girls has proven to increase the health and well-being…

COVID-19 is changing Kenyan nomads’ attitudes towards immunisation

COVID-19 is hitting nomads in Kenya’s Rift Valley hard. They are turning away from traditional medicine and customs as a result.

Five reasons why it’s a terrible idea to hold a COVID-19 party (even if you’ve been vaccinated)

Although people who have recovered from COVID-19 may be less likely to catch it again, there are many reasons to avoid becoming infected in the first place.

Your immune system is as unique as your fingerprint – new study

New discovery could help scientists develop more targeted drugs and vaccines.

Study finds no increased risk of COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy

Israeli data adds to mounting evidence that taking a COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy is safe.

Community health workers are critical in delivering COVID-19 vaccines

Delivering COVID-19 vaccines in low- and middle-income countries is only the first step in being able to vaccinate the world and bring this pandemic to an end. It’s essential to get vaccines from tarmacs into the arms of people living in last…

Cholera and the inequitable origins of public health diplomacy

The arrival of cholera on European shores in the 19th Century helped kick off the long path towards modern global health institutions and diplomacy. However, these beginnings were anything but fair.

Lower-income countries are letting far fewer COVID-19 vaccine doses expire than wealthier nations

Just 0.2% of COVID-19 vaccine doses delivered to lower-income countries through COVAX expired before they could be administered, estimated to be a significantly lower amount than wealthier countries.

Togo leads the way in COVID-19 vaccine roll-out

With support from Gavi, WHO and UNICEF, Togo is introducing various mechanisms to turn the tide of COVID-19.

Three things this week’s Global COVID-19 Summit is aiming to achieve

The White House is calling a virtual COVID-19 Summit on Wednesday, 22 September. Its targets for global vaccination are ambitious and essential as we work together to defeat COVID-19.

The historic push to provide ultra-cold chain freezers around the world

Thomas Sorenson, Senior Manager in the Cold Chain Unit, UNICEF Supply Division, explains the work behind the scenes to roll-out the largest ultra-cold chain deployment in history.

This is the WHO’s massive new list of ways to create a healthier, safer environment

Four UN agencies have compiled a first-of-its-kind Compendium of guidance on health and environment to help policymakers save millions of lives. The Compendium pulls together 500 actions and recommendations on everything from clean water and…

COVID-19 vaccine roll-out gathers pace in Kisumu, Kenya

In Kisumu, which is still recovering from the after-effects of flooding, authorities are working to bring vaccines to the beleaguered residents.

Reaching zero-dose children in Malawi’s cities

In Malawi urban areas have more unimmunised zero-dose children than rural regions. The government is working hard to close the immunisation gap.

Gavi at UNGA: Action for equity

The 76th UN General Assembly (UNGA 76) will take place from 14-30 September 2021. Could we see a breakthrough in the fight for universal vaccine access?

Even a quarter dose of Moderna vaccine triggers strong immune response

Although it’s not clear how this compares to the full dose licensed worldwide for emergency use, a quarter of a dose produces an equivalent immune response to immunity from infection.

Vaccine justice: Nepal gives refugees priority in the vaccine queue

Nepal has distributed more than 10 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine according to a considered allocation schedule based on humane, inclusive, epidemiological good sense. The country’s future safety depends on the willingness of the rest of the…

Now we know: typhoid conjugate vaccines are highly effective in African children

A study in Malawi found that TCVs are 84% efficacious among children 6 months to 15 years of age – the first such evidence among African children.

We need to stop talking about COVID-19 waves

While vaccines have helped save millions of lives in this pandemic, the ever-evolving virus has spread so far that it may be here to stay.

“We are not resting on our laurels”: COVID-19 survivors encourage vaccination in Nigeria

In Lagos, Nigeria's most populous state, COVID-19 survivors are encouraging more Nigerians to be vaccinated.

Cameroon is dealing with two conflicts amid the pandemic

The war against Boko Haram in Cameroon's northern region and the struggle against armed secessionists in the west have taken a significant toll on vaccine roll-out.

Why India’s latest Nipah case means pandemic preparedness is more vital than ever

With COVID-19 still ongoing, viruses like Nipah are nipping at its heels as the potential next pandemic threat.

How COVID-19 is undermining maternal health and reproductive rights

As the African continent battles a third wave of coronavirus infections, access to reproductive health and rights is an ongoing challenge.

Q&A: Helping teenage mothers access immunisation in Rwanda

The COVID-19 pandemic has reportedly increased the number of teenage mothers across Africa. Inadequate childcare support and stigma can prevent teenage mothers accessing routine immunisation and nutritional support for their infants. Girl Effect…

No scientific basis for COVID-19 vaccine boosters in general populations

Even though many wealthy countries are planning to roll out booster doses, a Lancet review has concluded that the standard COVID-19 vaccination regimen is highly effective, even against the Delta variant.

Kenya accelerates its COVID-19 vaccination programme

Kenya has ramped up its COVID-19 vaccination programme, expanding the list of who can get vaccinated.

COVAX: the forecast for vaccine supply

While the supply is lower than predictions earlier this year, wealthy countries and manufacturers hold the power to improve supply.

You don’t need to worry about COVID vaccines being ‘unnatural’ or ‘synthetic’

mRNA vaccines are the first synthetic vaccines, meaning they are made outside of a living cell. But so are lots of things we consume every day, such as vitamin C pills and other dietary supplements.

Review: Survivors – Hope and Resilience in the Time of Ebola

The Sierra Leonean documentary is a complex portrait of courageous solidarity amid contagion.

Pop culture icons and political satire in Bristol

The British artist John D’oh uses humour and wit to drive home messages about vaccines and other measures such as hand-washing and social distancing to stop the spread of COVID-19.

We’re getting closer to a vaccine against Chikungunya

Launch of vaccine trial marks “significant milestone” towards beating this debilitating disease.

Study of 6.2 million Americans shows no significant side effects from COVID-19 RNA vaccines

A study looking at health issues such as stroke or seizures after COVID-19 vaccination showed that vaccines weren’t linked to any significant number of side effects.

COVID-19 vaccination halves the risk of Long COVID

Data from the UK suggests double vaccination lowers the risk of ongoing COVID-19 symptoms, as well as reducing hospitalisations and the severity of the initial illness.

How improved yellow fever diagnostics are transforming management of the disease

Gavi has supported a major expansion in yellow fever diagnostic capacity in Africa over the past three years. The results show just how much improving diagnostics can have a cost-effective yet significant impact on immunisation programmes.

Anand Kumar: From polio to para-sports world champ

More often than not, the road to a meaningful triumph is a bumpy one.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe. Here’s why.

While most people jumped at the chance to get their COVID-19 vaccine, some have been more hesitant over concerns about safety.  Here we explain all the checks and balances in place to make sure the vaccines are safe.

The G20 Must Recommit to COVAX

Additional G20 support can make the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access facility a success. Failure to achieve equitable access would mean more lives lost, broken health-care systems, even deadlier and more transmissible variants, and a pandemic with…

Protecting a different kind of frontline worker in Liberia

Getting market women and pen-pen drivers vaccinated is critical to tackling COVID-19 in Liberia.

Why helping countries deliver COVID-19 vaccines is just as vital as boosting supply

Getting COVID-19 vaccines out to countries isn’t just about ensuring supply – a major stumbling block can be their ‘absorptive capacity,’ or the ability to deliver the volume of vaccine coming their way. Here, we talk to Alex de Jonquieres,…

COVID-19 boosted excess sale of antibiotics in India

COVID-19 boosted sales of antibiotic formulations used in adults and adolescents in India. Antibiotics should not be prescribed to treat viral diseases. Misuse of antibiotics can result in drug-resistant infections.

Hantavirus study shows restoring forests can reduce zoonotic disease risk

Brazilian scientists have found that transmission of hantavirus, a deadly infection, could be reduced by 45% if Brazil restores its Atlantic Forest to levels mandated by its Native Vegetation Protection Law. Hantavirus, spresd by contact with…

The vaccine taxi: Going mobile in Zimbabwe

Distance and fear of the pandemic has put many parents off from taking their children to health clinics in Zimbabwe. So one converted taxi is taking the clinic to them.

The first human case of Marburg virus in West Africa is no surprise: here’s why

The Marburg virus will be present wherever the Egyptian Rousette bat occurs.

What does the new C.1.2 coronavirus variant mean for COVID-19 vaccines?

A rapidly mutating coronavirus variant called C.1.2 is generating headlines around the world. Here’s what we know about it so far.

Humanitarians Push to Vaccinate in Conflict Zones

Pandemic ceasefires offer an opportunity to expand vaccination efforts, experts say. But negotiation is tricky.

People who have already had COVID-19 could be less likely to catch Delta than the vaccinated

A new study from Israel suggests the risk of a breakthrough infection among vaccinated people was higher than among people who’d previously had COVID-19 but had not been vaccinated. However the greatest benefit came to those who'd previously…

COVID variants: we spoke to the experts designing a single vaccine to defeat them all

A universal vaccine has been described as the ‘holy grail’ – but how close are we to getting one?

Do kids get long COVID? And how often? A paediatrician looks at the data

Children can get long COVID, but it seems to be less common than in adults. And they tend to recover quicker.

More than a quarter of a million infants estimated to have died due to pandemic poverty

More than a quarter of a million infants in low- and middle-income countries are predicted to have died in 2020 due to the economic impact of COVID-19.

Poorly ventilated schools are a super-spreader event waiting to happen. It may be as simple as opening windows

With evidence showing the COVID virus is airborne, it's no coincidence many outbreaks in schools have occurred in winter – when windows are closed.

Fighting both COVID-19 and cholera: Health workers, community leaders work around the clock in Nigeria

With COVID-19 stretching the healthcare system in many parts of Nigeria, health workers and community leaders have to go the extra mile to ensure vaccines reach victims of the country’s latest cholera outbreak.

Over a million children get protected against polio in Malawi

Malawi’s Ministry of Health recently conducted a nationwide polio vaccine catch up campaign targeting 1.8 million children who had previously missed out on the vaccine.

Why kids in low-income countries could face a higher risk of dying of COVID-19

Children are increasingly falling sick worldwide, but existing poor health and inadequate access to health care means the most vulnerable kids are most at risk.

Combining seasonal malaria vaccination with chemoprevention can cut malaria deaths in children by 70%

A new study suggests the RTS,S malaria vaccine alone is as effective as preventive antimalarials; together they could save thousands of lives.

In Brazil’s Acre, smoke from fires threatens health, could worsen COVID-19

Wildfire smoke has been linked to higher COVID-19 mortality rates, threatening to compound what is already one of the worst burdens of coronavirus infections and deaths in the world. At particular risk are Indigenous populations, who suffer…

“We don’t want to end back at square one”: Keeping child immunisation alive in Kenya

Kenya’s community workers fight to continue vaccinating children during the pandemic to avoid the reversal of historic gains.

After India’s brutal coronavirus wave, two-thirds of population has been exposed to SARS-CoV2

A public health scholar based in New Delhi explains how India has emerged from the massive spike in COVID-19 cases, even as the country braces for a new wave.

Are COVID-19 vaccine mandates human rights violations?

Experts point to a more fundamental right to be protected from the disease, particularly as it continues to spread primarily among the unvaccinated.

Why I no longer think we can eliminate COVID – public health expert

As New Zealand enters another lockdown after detecting a single COVID case, it's time to consider whether stringent zero COVID strategies are feasible in the long term.

Clothing Against Death

In the absence of good vaccines, doctors treating epidemic diseases must rely on cumbersome PPE as their one safety net. At least modern hazmat suits, unlike the 17th century plague doctor's all-leather outfit, actually work.

How to eliminate cervical cancer - an expert explains

COVID-19 has caused a decline in the delivery of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines that protect girls from cervical cancer. Anuradha Gupta, the Deputy CEO of Gavi, explains what we must do to create more access to these vaccines.

Zimbabwe’s waste pickers waiting impatiently for COVID-19 vaccines

For the waster pickers of Bulawayo, COVID-19 has posed risks to both their health and their incomes. Hope for a vaccine is reaching fever pitch.

How artificial intelligence could help the fight against COVID-19

Using big data and deep learning, machines and systems are offering new ways of responding to a pandemic.

COVID-19 boosters: Would a third jab really stop the pandemic?

Rich countries are now considering giving booster doses to vulnerable individuals, having fully-vaccinated most adults. Is this wise?

Is modern life encouraging the evolution of deadlier viruses?

The way we live can shape the evolution of pathogens, for better or worse.

Vaccines can win the race against COVID-19 variants. Here's how

COVID-19 variants threaten to undermine global vaccine programmes unless we accelerate the pace of delivery and rise to the challenge of global deployment.

Should we tell stories of vaccine sceptics who have died of COVID?

The news is full of stories of people who refused the jab who died of COVID.

Clinics get routine immunisation back on track in Zimbabwe

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic hit routine immunisation hard in Zimbabwe, but thanks to the hard work of local health workers children are now getting the protection they need.

COVID-19: why we can’t use antibody tests to show that vaccines are working

Many COVID-19 antibody tests are not designed to specifically detect antibodies that develop as a result of vaccination, and thus cannot show whether antibodies are of the right quantity or quality for protection against infection or illness.

Vaccines bring hope for children in Nigeria’s largest coastal slum

Access to routine immunisation and primary health care is changing the lives of children in Makoko, Nigeria’s largest coastal slum.

Are chatbots better than humans at fighting vaccine hesitancy?

Could artificial intelligence succeed where people have failed in helping people overcome their fears about vaccines?

Investing in Global Vaccine Equity Acknowledges Our Shared Fate

Vaccines are among modern medicine’s greatest innovations, allowing billions of people to lead healthy lives. But stopping outbreaks of vaccine-preventable disease – and not only COVID-19 – depends on achieving critical mass with immunization…

Plagues and classical history – what the humanities will tell us about COVID in years to come

We all need to know about the science of COVID as we battle through pandemic, but the ultimate story will lie in how it changed our society.

TCV is 85% efficacious and urgently needed for Bangladeshi children

New study finds TCV prevents 85% of cases among vaccinated children in Bangladesh, which has one of the highest typhoid burdens in the world.

Nigeria’s new initiative to boost routine immunisation

To improve routine immunisation, Nigeria is implementing the Accelerated Action for Impact (AAI) initiative.

Why are fully-vaccinated people still catching COVID-19?

Breakthrough infections are to be expected, but it doesn’t mean the COVID-19 vaccines aren’t working.

How will COVID vaccines work on compromised immune systems? Here’s what we know

Being immunocompromised appears to affect the vaccine response, but this seems to vary depending on the causes of the person's low immunity.

How bad will climate change be for our health?

The latest IPCC report emphasises the inevitability of some degree of climate change. The human health impact of this should not be ignored.

John Snow and the Pump Handle of Public Health

The narrative of the Broad Street pump is the story of a vital epidemiological discovery; it’s also a story about discovery: it has the tidy, conclusive quality of a fable about science. But in the years after its discovery, John Snow’s theory of…

RSV: what is it, and why are child cases surging in the wake of COVID?

COVID restrictions have prevented the spread of other respiratory viruses too. As these are lifted, the UK government has warned parents of a delayed surge in infections.

That Old Time Anti-Vaxx Feeling

The best single predictor of vaccine uptake per US state is not political affiliation, but the share of the population that believes the human race has always existed. Such findings do not bode well for the global effort to boost vaccination…

If we’re not careful, booster vaccines could end up giving the coronavirus a boost

The sooner we start using booster jabs, the more likely it is that we will need them.

COVID: why you still need to wash your hands

Respiratory viruses, such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2, while spread primarily by respiratory droplets can also be spread by contaminated hands touching the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth and eyes.

Review: 93 Days

In 2014, Nigeria escaped an Ebola pandemic in the span of 93 days because of the bravery and quick response of health care workers in Lagos. As the world fights through the COVID-19 pandemic, the film 93 Days – though grim – is a hopeful reminder…

Reaching out to communities in rural Zambia

In rural Zambia, clinics and health centres rely on a limited number of medical personnel to run immunisation programmes, which makes the support of community leaders vital.

Review: The Cutter Incident by Paul Offit

Offit’s sobering inquiry into “one of the worst biological disasters in American history” is a work of unflinching investigative journalism which lands, finally, not as a whodunit, but as a tribute to modern systems of meticulous vaccine…

How do experts ensure vaccine safety?

From clinical trials to population surveillance, these are the multilevel mechanisms that ensure vaccine safety – including the safety of COVID-19 vaccines.

Intellectual Property and COVID-19 vaccines

During a pandemic supply bottlenecks of essential medical products are almost inevitable, but with COVID-19 this has been further exacerbated by governments hoarding doses and imposing export bans.

Refugees included in Uganda’s COVID-19 vaccine drive

Uganda is setting an example by including its estimated 1.4 million refugees in its COVID-19 vaccine programme, however there are still barriers to overcome.

A Deadly Alliance – War and the Pandemic Influenza of 1918

As World War I reached its climax, a terrible influenza pandemic broke out. By summer 1919, it had claimed many more lives than the conflict – but the conflict, researchers say, helped create the conditions for the devastating spread of the so-…

Kenya’s digital vaccine warriors

The Savannah Innovation Hub teaches young women in Garissa County to counteract COVID-19 vaccine misinformation from groups like Al-Shabaab.

“My heart is always stuck in my homeland”: A Rohingya returnee’s story

Abdullah and his family escaped genocidal violence in Myanmar in 2017, survived a diphtheria epidemic in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar and weathered the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in a Rohingya camp. Then, in December 2020, he returned to the…

“Saving the future of our children”: The women fighting polio in Pakistan

Pakistan is one of two countries where wild poliovirus remains endemic making it essential that the entire country supports the successful implementation of every polio campaign. Women play a critical role, often working at polio’s frontline.

Fighting liver cancer with vaccines in The Gambia

Vaccines against cancer may seem like a futuristic notion, but children around the world are already getting protection against two of the biggest causes of cervical and liver cancer: HPV and hepatitis B.

COVID masks: how and when to ask someone to wear one – without getting into a fight

Just because face coverings aren't mandatory doesn't mean they're not protective – so here's how to ask someone to wear one.

Review: COVID, Quickly – A Scientific American podcast series

This series cuts through the noise to help you catch up with the latest COVID-19 developments in an entertaining and digestible way.

“I will definitely take the vaccine”: High demand for COVID-19 vaccines in Uganda

While there was some initial reluctance to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in Eastern Uganda, attitudes are changing fast.

TB prevention has relied on the same vaccine for 100 years. It’s time for innovation

BCG remains the only widely available vaccine for TB. Yet the development of a COVID-19 vaccine over the last year shows that there is capacity to rapidly create new vaccines.

How effective are COVID-19 vaccines in the real-world?

Real-world data is starting shed light on the performance of COVID-19 vaccines in less than perfect conditions.

Q&A: Vaccine – The Human Story

Dr Annie Kelly, writer and host of a new podcast which tells the story of the smallpox vaccine, talks to #VaccinesWork.

Review: The Panic Virus by Seth Mnookin

Mnookin’s 2011 investigation of the spread of anti-vax feeling is a pandemic-era must-read.

New vaccination figures underscore urgency to reach the most vulnerable

New data shows the impact COVID-19 is having on routine immunisation programmes worldwide, particularly in lower-income countries. We need action, now, to get routine immunisation programmes back on track and ensure that everyone, everywhere is…

From town criers to local monarchs: encouraging COVID-19 vaccination in Southern Nigeria

Volunteers, including King Dakolo of the Epetiama kingdom, are sensitising and convincing people to accept the COVID-19 vaccine in Bayelsa State, Southern Nigeria.

The Variant Threat Is Real

Rather than translating their own COVID-19 vaccination successes into a renewed global push to end the pandemic, rich countries are becoming complacent while the rest of the world grows increasingly desperate. But the emergence of dangerous new…

Nurses on the COVID-19 frontlines in Sierra Leone

#VaccinesWork spoke to nurse Fatmata Kamara* about how the COVID-19 vaccine roll-out in Sierra Leone is progressing.

The COVAX No Fault Compensation Programme: Explained

Indemnity and liability was one of the thorniest problems COVAX had to solve to successfully roll out COVID-19 vaccines in lower-income countries. The solution is a world first, which could offer a model for future pandemics.

Willing and waiting: High levels of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance identified in Global South

The widespread acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines in low- to middle-income countries should boost global coronavirus immunity, if distribution issues can be resolved.

Keeping routine immunisation going during Uganda’s second lockdown

Despite a second lockdown, outreach initiatives ensure continuation of Uganda’s routine child immunisation.

Why Africa needs to manufacture its own vaccines

Dr John Nkengasong is a Cameroonian virologist and Director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), which is working to strengthen the ability of Africa’s public health institutions to detect and respond to disease…

COVID: should you ditch your mask once restrictions are lifted? A philosopher’s view

A philosopher of public health ponders whether taking your mask off on July 19 is like punching someone in the face or like riding a bike.

How Do We Track Vaccinations for People Who Don’t Formally Exist?

Yoshinobu Nagamine, Senior Donor Manager at Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, describes the role contactless biometrics can play in accelerating vaccine delivery for those lacking formal identification.

COVID-19: how a sense of community can increase vaccine uptake

If people feel a sense of duty to their local community, they're more likely to protect themselves and others by taking the COVID-19 vaccine.

What can Nigeria do to boost local production of vaccines?

COVID-19 has made local, home-grown production of vaccines a national priority in countries around the world. #VaccinesWork spoke to Professor Martins Emeje at Nigeria’s National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) to…

We should treat COVID like norovirus – not the flu

Comparisons with flu are unhelpful – these diseases need to be treated differently.

Pen and paper in a digital age: tracking childhood immunisation in Kenya

It may not be high tech, but it works. Kenyan community health volunteers use tracking books to ensure that children receive routine vaccinations.

Will COVID-19 evolve to be more or less deadly?

Some viruses gradually become less virulent over time, but there's no guarantee that SARS-CoV-2 will follow that pattern.

COVID: lambda variant is now in 29 countries, but what evidence do we have that it’s more dangerous?

The lambda variant ripped through Peru and is now spreading globally. But there is little evidence that it is more dangerous than the original variant.

Could a universal coronavirus vaccine soon be a reality?

COVID-19 is unlikely to be the last coronavirus we ever see. Scientists are already trying to make a one-size-fits-all vaccine to stop a future coronavirus epidemic in its tracks.

Could the seasonal flu vaccine help protect against COVID-19?

A large study suggests the influenza vaccine may reduce the risk of some of the worst consequences of COVID-19.

Community Health Workers stop the spread of COVID-19 and polio in Nairobi’s slums

Community health volunteers collaborated with local structures in the slums to help inhabitants survive lockdown and stop the spread of disease.

COVID-19 vaccine boosters: is a third dose really needed?

If immunity is waning or ineffectual against new variants, then boosters could be needed – but there needs to be evidence that they're necessary.

Why Africa’s push to make vaccines should look further than COVID-19

Vaccine manufacturing doesn't come cheap. It depends heavily on support from developed countries. It also takes much more than relaxing intellectual property rights and a desire for vaccine equity.

Are new variants making the COVID-19 virus as deadly as SARS?

Although related to the virus that caused the SARS pandemic in 2003, the COVID-19 virus has never seemed as deadly – until now.

Handwashing ‘impossible’ for one in three amid COVID-19

One in three unable to properly wash hands at home during COVID-19 – WHO-UNICEF. Progress on water, sanitation and hygiene ‘must quadruple’ to meet 2030 target. Investment and prioritisation needed ‘at the highest levels’.

Is COVID-19 effectively already endemic?

Will the pandemic go out with a fizzle or a bang? And what does “living with the virus” actually mean, and when will we get there?

Opinion: Reach 'zero-dose' children to build back better

We must seize this opportunity to shape our COVID-19 response as a chance to achieve better equity and social justice. What better way to do that than to focus on zero-dose children?

COVID variants: could dangerous new ones evolve in pets and farm animals?

Early results from several studies have found that pets can pick up COVID-19 from their owner – but they are unlikely to be dangerous as a result.

Five ways to mitigate India’s third COVID-19 wave

India’s second wave of COVID-19 has devastated the country through a perfect storm of new variants, low vaccination uptake and a shortage of medical equipment and supplies. Here’s what we need to understand about the ongoing second wave to…

India’s “Covaxin” vaccine shows high efficacy against COVID-19 infections in phase 3 trial

A vaccine that had previously been authorised by the Indian government ahead of phase 3 trials now show promising results. This could add to the global armoury of vaccines against COVID-19.

Africa ‘tech hub’ aims to fill COVID-19 vaccine gap

New mRNA tech transfer hub to be established in South Africa. Facility will provide training and licences for vaccine development. Less than one per cent in Africa have been vaccinated against COVID-19.

Unlocking Girls’ Potential Through Technology

The pandemic has exacerbated pre-existing inequalities, not least those disadvantaging women and girls in low- and middle-income countries. Fortunately, with today’s digital technologies, those providing health information and services for girls…

Kenyans use their polio fighting network to tackle COVID-19

A rich network of community volunteers in Nairobi are putting skills they developed during anti-polio activities to work tackling COVID-19, and mobilising slum dwellers to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

False negative: How long does it take for coronavirus to become detectable by PCR?

It takes time for coronavirus to become established in the body, so a negative test doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t test positive later on.

Why vaccines need solar power

The power sources used to keep vaccines cold used to be polluting and unreliable. We spoke to Alex de Jonquieres, Gavi’s Director of Health Systems and Immunisation Strengthening about how Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, became investors in solar…

How Can I Spot A Fake COVID-19 Vaccine?

Fake COVID-19 vaccines erode public trust in much-needed jabs and encourage vaccine hesitancy.

The Iron Lung

Before 1955, when a vaccine first made polio a preventable illness, the paralysing disease had to be treated. For many, the best option was the iron lung, a device that came to symbolise an era of anxiety in mid-20th century America.

Why sharing bioimaging tech is crucial to global health

New bioimaging technologies are pushing the boundaries of medicine. But poorer nations risk losing out on these advances. Investment in facilities and training globally is crucial to bridge the divide.

Are men and obese people really at greater risk of dying from COVID-19?

A reanalysis of 58 existing studies suggests that with COVID-19 being male or seriously overweight isn’t as risky as originally thought.

How vaccines "demolished the wall" COVID-19 built between Nigerians and their loved ones

Separated for weeks and months because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the arrival of vaccines is allowing people to physically reconnect with friends and family.

How to Prevent the Next Pandemic

We need to make the development and distribution of vaccines a truly global endeavor.

There’s now a Delta Plus variant of COVID-19 – what does this mean?

The Delta variant that has caused devastation in countries like India and the UK has now mutated to produce another variant called Delta Plus. Should we be worried?

Guinea declares Ebola epidemic over

Guinea declares end of Ebola outbreak after 42 days without new cases. Outbreak resulted in 23 likely cases, 12 deaths since February. Success attributed to community buy-in, capacity building and vaccination.

Could a rapid neutralising antibody test free up doses of COVID-19 vaccines for low- and middle-income countries?

By identifying people with high levels of neutralising antibodies after a first vaccine dose, rapid tests could potentially identify those who don’t need a booster dose.

What you need to know about COVID-19 vaccines and myocarditis in teens

This rare side-effect from the two RNA vaccines being rolled out might be concerning but the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks.

COVID-19 vaccines: why it’s important you get your second dose

Two doses have always been more protective than one, but the Delta variant has made the benefit of the second dose much greater.

A roadmap to recovery

The Immunization Agenda 2030’s new scorecard visualizes a journey toward pandemic recovery and global immunization progress.

I’m fully vaccinated but feel sick – should I get tested for COVID-19?

Vaccinated people can still get infected with the coronavirus. So if you have symptoms of COVID-19, getting tested can protect others and help health officials keep an eye on the virus.

“My world became smaller”: How COVID-19 vaccines are fighting stigmatisation in Nigeria

Forced to suffer in silence after contracting COVID-19, the arrival of vaccines is helping many Nigerians with a history of the virus overcome stigma and get their lives back on track.

Despite the pandemic, Kenya rolls out measles-rubella vaccinations

Beginning today, Kenya’s Ministry of Health is beginning a major new measles-rubella vaccination campaign to defend against outbreaks.

Tackling Malawi’s fears of routine immunisation: “Children should still be immunised amid the pandemic”

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected turn out for almost all Malawi’s health services, including routine immunisation. One local CSO is using Community Mother Care groups to trace those missing out on vaccines, helping to ensure children are…

How the pandemic is fuelling antimicrobial resistance

For years, a growing number of infections that are resistant to antimicrobials has offered us a grim glimpse into a future with increasingly untreatable diseases. Now, COVID-19 has made antimicrobial resistance so much worse.

New systems map can help overcome difficulties in vaccinating hard-to-reach communities

A major obstacle for COVID-19 vaccination programs to achieve higher and more equitable vaccine coverage throughout the world is vaccinating hard-to-reach communities.

What does COVAX’s latest supply forecast tell us?

The forecast is encouraging given the supply disruptions COVAX and countries with bilateral deals are currently experiencing, and the general challenges manufacturers are experiencing as they ramp up supply at historic speed and scale.

Could lifting COVID-19 restrictions trigger a surge in other common infections?

Masks, hand washing and physical distancing don’t only reduce the transmission of coronavirus. So, what will happen when we do away with these measures?

We archived 84 million tweets to learn about the pandemic – each one is a tiny historical document

During the pandemic, researchers have treated Twitter as a sprawling and evolving historical document.

What happens when COVID-19 collides with HIV infection?

Mounting evidence suggests people living with HIV may be at greater risk of dying from COVID-19. The good news is that COVID-19 vaccines appear to be safe and effective in people with HIV.

Giving 110%: Eswatini’s early rollout of COVID-19 vaccines

Eswatini received its first batch of 32 000 Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines in late March. 12 000 came through the COVAX facility and 20,000 through a donation from the Indian Government.

How vaccines turbo-charge any existing immunity against COVID-19

A previous infection does give you some immunity against COVID-19, but a new study suggests that vaccination gives your body a massive boost – including against variants of concern.

Q&A with Sterling and Seth: Spotlight on COVAX

What do the CEO of the Vaccine Alliance and the star of a hit US TV show have in common? They both want to raise awareness about COVID-19 vaccines and COVAX’s role in getting the world vaccinated.

The tragedy of Typhoid Mary

Mary Mallon was branded a public menace and incarcerated after typhoid outbreaks across New York City were linked to her presence in the kitchen. Was she unfairly demonised?

Five Good Reasons to Go Give One

Wondering what you can do to help end the acute phase of the pandemic? Go Give One – is giving everyone everywhere a chance to play their part.

Why we support COVAX: Mastercard

Mastercard, a long-standing partner of Gavi, recently committed US$ 28 million to the Gavi COVAX AMC, to ensure vaccines are accessible to those that needed them the most, no matter where they live. Vaccines Work spoke to Michael Froman to learn…

Seven ways in which COVID-19 could change the way we fight infectious diseases

The pandemic turned our normal ways of working upside down, but there are several ways in which the new normal could bring improvements in the way we fight disease.

Lifesaving but unaffordable: pros and cons of the newest COVID-19 treatment

Antibody therapy reduces COVID-19 fatalities by a fifth, but remains inaccessible to many countries.

Needle phobia could be the cause of 10% of COVID vaccine hesitancy in the UK – new research

People who are afraid of needles are twice as likely to be vaccine hesitant, new research shows.

Why we still need R&D into COVID-19 vaccines

There are now 17 COVID-19 vaccines approved for emergency use, but as the virus continues to evolve, here is why we can’t pull the plug on research into new vaccines and therapeutics.

How COVID-19 will damage the lives of African children for decades to come

Although the coronavirus doesn’t cause disease and death in children as much as it does in adults, many children around the world are vulnerable to the collateral damage wreaked by the pandemic.

Does a plant-based diet really help beat COVID-19?

A new paper suggests that plant- and fish-based diets lessen the chance of developing severe symptoms – but hold off from becoming vegetarian or pescatarian for now.

Five things we know about the Delta variant (and two things we don't)

The Delta (B.1.617.2) variant of SARS CoV-2 was first detected in India and is rapidly spreading around the world. Here’s what we know about it so far.

Why speaking without a mask is the easiest way to spread COVID-19

COVID-19 virus particles can be spread via coughing, sneezing, breathing or speech, but the latter is one of the most effective ways of spreading. Here is why talking without a mask indoors could be one of the easiest ways to spread the infection…

Floods hampering the vaccine roll-out in Western Kenya

Amidst the challenges that COVID-19 has brought, flooding in Kenya has made it even harder for the people of Kisumu County.

How well do first and second vaccine doses work against Covid-19?

Is it risky or wise to delay the second dose of Covid-19 vaccine? Critics warned against the UK government policy of leaving a longer gap between doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines. Now we have more data, so what do we…

Countries must share COVID-19 vaccine doses; the sooner the better

Some of the world’s wealthiest countries nations have already committed to share doses with lower-income countries through COVAX: as G7 leaders meet this week, other governments must follow suit and share their doses now, because we only have a…

Do COVID-19 vaccines affect menstruation and fertility?

Ever since the pandemic started there have been news headlines speculating about the effect of the vaccines on our reproductive system, but what does the science tell us?

From the great plague to the 1918 flu, history shows that disease outbreaks make inequality worse

Accounts of previous epidemics – by Samuel Pepys, Daniel Defoe and Katherine Porter – warn of mistakes that we risk repeating.

Tackling typhoid in Zimbabwe: “We have to be sure for ourselves that the water is safe”

After a devastating typhoid outbreak swept through Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, a new, more effective vaccine is bringing hope.

Six ways to know the COVID-19 pandemic is over

It’s been over a year now since the pandemic first started, and now that vaccines are rolling out in many countries, how long do we have to wait for things to go back to ‘normal’?

To keep coronavirus at bay, we must create a ‘variant-proof’ world

We remain locked in a deadly race with the virus. We will only win when we have created a “variant-proof” world that can keep a lid on the havoc caused by its troublesome mutations.

The ‘black fungus’ epidemic hitting COVID-19 patients in India

Amid the 28.4 million cases and over 300 thousand deaths from SARS-CoV-2, a second epidemic has hit India. ‘Black fungus’, clinically known as mucormycosis, is an infection currently affecting nearly 12,000 immunocompromised patients recovering…

The mystery of 'long COVID': up to 1 in 3 people who catch the virus suffer for months. Here's what we know so far

While we don't know exactly what causes it yet, there are a few theories put forward by a few researchers around the world.

How likely is a positive COVID-19 lateral flow test to be wrong?

Rapid antigen tests for COVID-19 are less sensitive than PCR tests, but here we explain why you should never ignore a positive result.

Is 150 years really the limit of human lifespan?

Researchers think they've calculated the limit of human lifespan – but there's more to it.

“This country belongs to all of us”: Vaccinating internal migrants in Nigeria

For those who migrate within Ondo State, Nigeria, access to immunisation has been complicated by the shift in focus to COVID-19.

Speeding up vaccine development: Can we go from lab to jab in just 100 days?

COVID-19 vaccines were made in record speed, taking around 300 days from the moment the threat was first identified. But the world’s top scientists are aiming to overtake this world record in the next pandemic, aiming to make a vaccine in 100…

Can dogs be trained to sniff out COVID-19?

Various countries are training dogs to detect coronavirus, and the results of early clinical trials are looking promising. 

COVID-19's impacts on the brain and mind are varied and common – new research

Non-specific illnesses, such as headache and fatigue, are common, as are mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety.

LGBTIQ people have been hit hard by COVID-19. Here’s how we can all help

Marginalized people suffer from being at the intersection of multiple challenges and barriers. Economic hardship has been a secondary epidemic in the LGBTIQ community. We need public health and support services that acknowledge difference.

Five reasons why the real number of COVID-19 deaths could be triple the official number

The death toll from the pandemic has been devastatingly high, with the official figure standing at 3.5 million people, but the World Health Organization estimates the real number could be up to three times higher. Here’s why.

Little-Known Illnesses Turning Up in Covid Long-Haulers

A significant number of post-covid patients suffer from syndromes that few doctors understand.

How well your immune system works can depend on the time of day

Our immune system is controlled by our "body clock" – an intricate 24-hour system which controls how cells function.

Nigerians turn to social media for encouragement

Social media has been much-maligned as a source of misinformation when it comes to vaccines. But for millions of Nigerians it is having the opposite effect, encouraging them to get their jabs.

Why COVID-19 variants got new Greek names

Calling variants by their country of origin has politicised the pandemic response, leading to countries being blamed and people originating from those countries stigmatised and targeted – sometimes violently. Now, the World Health Organization is…

How the predicted hunger pandemic became a grim reality

Worldwide more than 3.5 million people have died of COVID-19 so far; now millions more are on the brink of starvation because of a connected hunger crisis.

Can you test positive for COVID-19 test after getting the vaccine?

As more people get vaccinated, and testing requirements are becoming commonplace to allow freedom to travel and work, we look at the circumstances under which you could test positive for COVID-19 even after being vaccinated.

World leaders and private sector commit to protecting the vulnerable with COVID-19 vaccines

In the COVAX Advance Market Commitment Summit, hosted by Japan, countries and industry came together to pledge support to the mission of making vaccines available equitably worldwide.

World leaders unite to commit to global equitable access for COVID-19 vaccines

The Gavi COVAX AMC Summit “One World Protected” virtual event, hosted today by the Government of Japan and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, raised US$ 2.4 billion from nearly 40 donor governments, the private sector and foundations, exceeding the…

COVID-19 in the house: How to reduce the risk of transmission

Further infections are not inevitable, if you take the following steps.

Change to cold-storage conditions could make Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine more widely available

Several regulators have agreed the mRNA vaccine can be kept refrigerated for up to 30 days, making it easier to distribute in lower-resource settings.

If you’ve had COVID-19 you could be more than 80% protected from reinfection

Whether or not you can become reinfected with COVID-19 hasn’t been clear so far, but a new study from Denmark indicates that immune response triggered by the first infection offers good protection.

Self-COVID-19 tests: do you know your tonsils from your uvula?

Some COVID-19 tests require you to swab your own tonsils, but could you be mistaking them for something else?

How the answer to long-lived immunity to COVID-19 could lie in our bone marrow

People who have had COVID-19 seem to have bone marrow cells that could produce antibodies for years to come, which could mean that immunity both from natural infection and vaccination is long lasting.

Keeping vaccines cool with cold chain

With millions of COVID-19 vaccines now being delivered around the world, they are utilising a huge hidden infrastructure, built up over decades and spreading across the globe, with one ultimate goal: keeping the vaccines cool. How did these…

What steps must be taken to secure oxygen - for COVID-19 patients and into the future

New waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in countries, such as Kenya and India, have exposed the poor management of oxygen supplies. Moina Spooner, from The Conversation Africa, asked Professor Trevor Duke, an expert on [oxygen provision] and editor of…

Encouraging vaccination in Nairobi: “If we work on awareness and motivation, we are good to go”

Pamela Anyango is on a mission to boost vaccine coverage in Dandora, Kenya, home to a garbage dump that has been labelled the ‘cradle of the next pandemic’.

Is it safe to mix and match COVID-19 vaccines?

Mixing COVID-19 is being proposed in some countries but is it safe to do so, and how do our immune systems react?

Malawi takes on religious beliefs that discourage immunisation

Malawi’s Ministry of Health is using its structures to reach out to a small section of religious groups that are threatening the success of the country’s immunisation programme.

Yellow Fever and the Panama Canal

At the turn of the 20th Century, US researchers in Cuba made the historic discovery that mosquitoes spread yellow fever. The finding was not only a medical breakthrough; it would also make possible one of the world’s greatest feats of engineering…

Could a new coronavirus be spreading from dogs?

Scientists think they may have caught a canine coronavirus in the process of adapting to humans.

The point of it: Why do vaccine delivery methods vary?

Some vaccines are injected into muscle; others are given orally, or under the skin. What difference does it make to our immune response?

How to give a COVID-mitigated hug

No activity that brings you into someone else’s breathing space is safe, but the risks associated with hugging can be lowered by taking some simple precautions.

Filling the vaccine gap in Kenya

A well-planned immunisation programme can go a long way to reducing the burden of disease on a country.

“We survived something major together”: Rebuilding after COVID-19

COVID-19 put a huge strain on Seyram and his mother’s relationship, as well as on their individual lives. The delivery of Ghana’s first batch of vaccines from COVAX means they can begin to rebuild what was broken.

Coronavirus: so many variants, but vaccines are still effective

Variants of interest and variants of concern seem to be popping up at an alarming rate. But how many of them do we really need to worry about?

How Yellow Fever decimated the USA’s first capital

In 1793, with the United States of America less than 20 years old, a yellow fever epidemic decimates the capital city, Philadelphia, and shines a spotlight on stark racial and social inequalities.

Can we stop wearing masks after being vaccinated?

In some countries, wearing masks against COVID-19 is not mandatory anymore, but can the rest of the world follow suit?

Apostolic Churches warm up to COVID-19 vaccines in Zimbabwe

Attitudes towards vaccines are changing as Zimbabwe’s Apostolic Church members come to terms with COVID-19.

Why Africa’s critically ill COVID-19 patients have the world’s highest death rates

Death rates on the continent are higher than Asia, Europe, North America or South America, in large part because of a lack of resources and underuse of resources that do exist.

COVID-19: how rising inequalities unfolded and why we cannot afford to ignore it

It's been argued that pandemics are the great leveller, but with COVID the opposite is true – and we can't afford to ignore it.

The community health workers getting people vaccinated in Uganda

As Community Health Workers, Harriet Nankwanzi and Yusuf Maganda have built personal relationships with people in their communities who have over the years relied on their services to access vital health information.

Asia and Africa offer lessons in health systems resilience

In this pandemic, the income level of a country proved not to be a guarantee of an effective COVID-19 response; this analysis shows the key factors in a resilient health system to protect against future outbreaks.

Do children need to be vaccinated against COVID-19?

Children have so far been able to evade the worst effects of COVID-19, but this could be changing as new variants and other factors seem to be putting more at risk.

Poo and the pandemic: How sewage is helping us fight COVID-19

Many countries are beginning to use wastewater monitoring to track COVID-19 outbreaks, but such sewage surveillance has a long history.

“If we don’t go out there, nobody would”: Vaccinating during an insurgency in Nigeria

Health workers go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that the children of Borno State, Nigeria, are vaccinated.

The impact of COVID-19 on Malawi’s routine immunisation programmes

The pandemic is having an adverse effect on Malawi’s continued drive to provide all children with routine vaccines.

Fighting the flu: 100 years of preparing for pandemics

Although the world’s eyes are currently focused on COVID-19, a network of laboratories has been tracking the emergence and spread of a different virus for seven decades.

Nomads in lockdown: COVAX reaches the Mongolian steppes

As COVAX vaccines reach the rural Batsumber in Mongolia, livestock herders hope that the loneliness of the pandemic era will soon come to an end.

Why we support COVAX: UBS and UBS Optimus Foundation

The UBS Optimus Foundation has launched a campaign to help secure funding for the COVAX Advance Market Commitment. Vaccines Work spoke to Tom Hall, the UBS Head of Philanthropy Services to find out why.

COVID vaccines: some fully vaccinated people will still get infected – here’s why

Reports of fully vaccinated people getting infected with coronavirus shouldn't cause alarm.

How "camel riders" are helping the COVID-19 vaccine push in Kenya

With tourism hit hard by the pandemic, camel riders in Northern Kenya have repurposed their herds to help spread the word about COVID-19 vaccines, using traditional healers to gain trust in the community.

The World Isn’t Getting Vaccinated Fast Enough. Here Are 4 Ways to Fix That

In an unprecedented show of global solidarity, the world came together to back COVAX, a unique global solution aimed at making equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines possible.

COVAX Manufacturing Task Force to tackle vaccine supply challenges

A COVAX Manufacturing Task Force has been established to identify and resolve issues impeding equitable access to vaccines.

Vaccinator training on smartphone screens amid COVID-19: Another “new normal”?

App-assisted vaccinator training is an approach that shows promise, write the team who ran a Gavi-supported pilot to trial a new screen-based learning mechanism in India. What’s more, amid the pandemic, the flexibility of learning from home,…

China’s Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine first to carry a smart label to monitor heat-damage

It is the first vaccine developed by a non-Western country to be approved by the WHO, and is welcome at a time of global vaccine shortages.

Gavi’s Seth Berkley named one of the world’s greatest leaders by Fortune

Dr Berkley is recognised alongside other world-changing vaccine champions in this year’s list for their part in the fight against COVID-19.

Kenya completes its first round of COVID-19 vaccinations

After some initial hesitancy amongst health workers, Kenya has successfully rolled out the first batch of COVID-19 vaccine doses.

Masking Trouble

As the Spanish flu of 1918-1920 tore through America, a San Francisco mayor bet on the potential of face masks to contain the spread. Then, like today, the demand to mask up met resistance that blended distrust, ideology and gut feeling.

Covering COVID-19 in Guyana’s ‘Deep South’

The indigenous people adopted measures that were more applicable to the challenges but also their reality. And I tried to illustrate that in my story.

Mounting evidence suggests COVID vaccines do reduce transmission. How does this work?

Vaccination is likely to substantially reduce virus transmission by reducing the pool of people who become infected, and reducing virus levels in people who get infected.

Working towards vaccine equity to leave no one behind

Country and community perspectives on realising the targets of the Immunisation Agenda 2030.

Next Steps for a People’s Vaccine

The Biden administration’s decision to stop opposing a proposed COVID-19 waiver of certain intellectual-property rights under World Trade Organization rules is a welcome move. But ending the pandemic also requires scaling up knowledge and…

When refusing a COVID-19 vaccine isn’t about hesitancy

The reasons why people may not take a COVID-19 vaccine even when offered can be complex and varied, but they point to the need to tackle them better if we are to improve vaccine coverage.

COVID-19 vaccines bring relief to Ugandans living with HIV

The pandemic has been tough for the 1.4 million Ugandans living with HIV, but the arrival of the COVID-19 vaccine has brought some welcome relief.

Expediting COVID-19 vaccination could prevent millions of deaths and save billions of dollars

Increasing vaccination coverage by even 1% can save thousands of lives and millions of dollars in medical and economic costs.

Lagos learning the hard way

The rollout of the first phase of the COVID-19 vaccination exercise has not been without its challenges but there is a focus on learning and improving.

The US adds it support to patent waivers for COVID-19 vaccines

As countries worldwide are suffering from COVID-19 vaccine shortages, sharing intellectual property and know-how, and easing trade bans on the export of raw materials, could ease supply bottlenecks.

Weather forecasts a ‘life-saving tool against meningitis’

Meningitis affects more than 30,000 people in Africa every year. Scientists use weather data to predict location and scale of impending cases. The prediction helps country-level health services to plan emergency responses.

COVID vaccines: why waiving patents won’t fix global shortage – scientist explains

Increasing skills and the availability of raw materials would be a bigger boost for vaccine production right now.

Oxford vaccine professor: rich countries have a moral duty to share their COVID-19 shots

We cannot look back in the future and know we could have done more.

Emerging lessons from Africa’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout

With 47 African countries now rolling out COVID-19 vaccines and over 17 million doses given on the continent, early insights from Africa’s largest-ever immunization drive offer hope, inspiration and early, yet vital lessons. Here, we shine a…

Why Indian hospitals are running out of medical oxygen and how to fix it

Investment in bedside oxygen production could make hospitals more resilient in the face of COVID-19.

What are the most effective ways to improve vaccination rates?

Vaccines are one of our greatest success stories, but vaccination rates for many diseases have been stalling; this has been exacerbated with the disruption caused by Covid-19. Anna Mouser sets out the evidence on what works, and what doesn’t, for…

Reaching communities with immunisation in South Sudan

To reach zero-dose children in conflict states like South Sudan, social mobilisers like Nyok Daniel are crucial to winning the trust and support of local communities.

There will be no recovery without equity

The impact of COVID-19 threatens to reverse hard-worn strides in global health. Without immediate investments, we will miss our chance to save lives and help countries recover from the pandemic and build the human capital needed for a resilient…

The Key to Beating COVID-19

Although it is only natural and proper for governments to focus on vaccinating their citizens first, it is important not to lose sight of the big picture. The only way we can beat COVID-19 is to defeat it everywhere, and the best way to do that…

Why routine immunisation is vital for pandemic preparedness

Trying to control a pandemic can feel like being in a warzone, yet even as we fight COVID-19 we still need to keep one eye on the future and potential emerging pandemics. Dr Velislava Petrova, senior manager in vaccine policy and investment at…

Are COVID-19 vaccine expiration dates too cautious?

Distributing COVID-19 vaccines has been challenging, meaning in some cases vaccines are being delivered close to their expiration date; but the WHO is urging countries to hold on to the doses while it assesses whether shelf lives can be extended…

Gavi signs agreement with Moderna to secure doses on behalf of COVAX Facility

The signed advance purchase agreement (APA) is for up to 500 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Moderna. Supply via the agreement will take place from the second half of 2021 through 2022, with options in place to address the…

The Pandemic Within the Pandemic

Globally, antibiotic use in hospitals has surged since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and over-the-counter sales, legal in many countries, have soared. This is further fueling the global crisis of antimicrobial resistance, as bacteria evolve…

“Losing my job wasn’t the biggest problem”: A family’s journey through COVID-19 in Ghana

The Safo family, with a seven-year-old son with a number of medical conditions, know all too well what it’s like to have to readjust their lives and limits to accommodate a new reality. The delivery of Ghana’s first batch of COVID-19 vaccines by…

The vaccinators fighting polio in Rawalpindi

In pockets of vaccine resistance like Fauji Colony in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, children remain at risk of crippling polio. VaccinesWork meets the polio workers going door-to-door to change minds and protect children’s futures.

Turning a short-term crisis into long-term change

Often, crisis responses and emergency funding do not lead to significant structural changes because their goal is to provide immediate relief, not drive long-term shifts. Immediate crisis relief and long-term structural changes, however, can…

Understanding vaccine hesitancy: Cha’s story

A new documentary tells a powerful tale of families overcoming every obstacle to protect their children from vaccine preventable disease.

All aboard! Cameroon’s race to vaccinate every child

Cameroonian health workers are going the distance to reach the remote Island of Manoka on a quest to ensure that no child is left behind.

Helping children thrive through soap and vaccines

In Uttar Pradesh, India, over 1,000 children die every day from preventable diseases. Gavi’s long-standing partnership with Unilever and Lifebuoy has helped to reach 2.5 million people with essential vaccines and soap, while also leveraging the…

How are vaccines made?

There are a broad range of different types of vaccine, but one thing they usually have in common is that they are inherently biological. That means that often their ingredients need to be grown.

Vaccines Explained

Vaccines save millions of lives a year, but what exactly is a vaccine and what goes into making one? And how do we know they are safe? Here, we talk about every aspect of vaccines and why they are so important for our health.

Exercise boosts immunity and makes vaccines more effective – new study

Meeting the recommended guidelines for physical activity reduces the risk of falling ill and dying of infectious diseases by 37%.

Reaching zero-dose children in Rajasthan

9.7 million children in 57 Gavi-supported countries remain unvaccinated and at risk. Why are these children missing out? In Bikaner, Rajasthan, VaccinesWork meets two families who simply never landed on the health system’s radar.

COVID-19 in India: an unfolding humanitarian crisis

Stories of reaching herd immunity were certainly premature.

An Indian Queen’s “Vaccine Selfie” in Oils

Why a 19th century portrait of three southern Indian noblewomen is “one of the most important scientific pictures in the history of medicine in India.”

Immunization services begin slow recovery from COVID-19 disruptions, though millions of children remain at risk from deadly diseases

Geneva/New York, 26 April 2021 – While immunization services have started to recover from disruptions caused by COVID-19, millions of children remain vulnerable to deadly diseases, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF and Gavi, the Vaccine…

The Zero-Dose Child: Explained

Despite decades of progress increasing access to immunisation in lower-income countries, at least 12.4 million children still go without basic, routine vaccines every year. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance is now focusing on reaching these zero-dose…

Malaria vaccine achieves 77% efficacy in seasonal setting in study of African children

The R21/Matrix-M vaccine is the first to show promise of hitting the World Health Organisation’s target of 75% efficacy against malaria.

France makes important vaccine dose donation to COVAX

Today, to mark the first year of the creation of the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator, President Emmanuel Macron announced that France has begun sharing vaccine doses with COVAX, starting with a first batch of 105,600 doses – with 500,…

COVAX rolls out in Angola

Over half a million doses of COVID-19 vaccines arrived in Angola in March, delivered through the COVAX initiative. VaccinesWork talked to some of the first beneficiaries.

Why is India’s COVID-19 pandemic skyrocketing?

When the pandemic started, India defied expectations by having a milder outbreak than had been predicted. Now, it is seeing a deadly second wave that is bringing the country’s health system to its knees – so what is behind this, and how much is…

The next pandemic: Marburg?

A cousin of Ebola, Marburg can kill nine out of ten people it infects, and international travel has taken it from Africa to Europe twice in the past 40 years. The virus has just hit Equatorial Guinea for the first time ever – what does this mean…

Mysterious Ailment, Mysterious Relief: Vaccines Help Some Covid Long Haulers

Scientists who study the post-illness syndrome are taking a close look at patients’ reports of this unexpected benefit of the vaccine.

Tales from the COVID frontline: An Angolan filmmaker takes on COVID-19

Óscar Gil Pereira is one of Angola’s most celebrated filmmakers. Last year he became one of the 24,000 people in Angola to contract COVID-19. After beating the disease, he is now vaccinated and committed to celebrating the health worker heroes…

Ivermectin: why a potential COVID treatment isn’t recommended for use

The antiparasitic drug was thought to be a potential treatment for COVID-19, but there isn't sufficient evidence to recommend its use, despite widespread support online.

What ingredients go into a vaccine?

Vaccines contain active ingredients that trigger an immune response to viruses, bacteria and other pathogens. But in order to work well, it is important that they also contain other key ingredients to keep them safe and effective.

Are We Risking a Debt Pandemic?

The prospect of recovery from the COVID-19 crisis makes it all the more urgent to have a firm vision of how the burden of public debt can be reduced once the coronavirus has been vanquished. For this reason, every country must work on itself and…

Resourceful Optimism: Fighting COVID-19 in Afghanistan

The pandemic has strained most countries’ health systems. Afghanistan has faced more hurdles than most.

Serious blood clots “more likely” with COVID-19 infection than vaccine

Study suggests the risk of a serious brain clot is up to ten times higher in people with COVID-19 infections, compared to those receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.

COVAX: A new standard for global innovation and partnership

COVAX has a critical role to play in ending the acute phase of the pandemic. The initiative could also be a model for how we address some of the most urgent development challenges of our time, from climate change to poverty reduction.

“A ray of sunshine”: COVAX vaccines reinvigorate health workers in Eswatini

The delivery of vaccines has gone a long way to alleviating the fears and pressure on healthcare workers in Eswatini.

How long does immunity last after COVID-19 vaccination?

Millions of doses of COVID-19 vaccines are being delivered across the world, but what do we know about how long will immunity last?

An expert explains how to track coronavirus variants

New Covid-19 variants could potentially jeopardise a lot of the work that has been done so far to contain the pandemic. Sonia Gonçalves explains how genomic surveillance can help us track and contain them.

Traditional and religious leaders spearhead COVID-19 immunisation in Malawi

Communities often look to their traditional and religious leaders when it comes to advice on how to live. In Malawi, they are stepping to the fore.

Women on the frontline: delivering COVID-19 vaccines on the Kenya-Somalia border

Al-Shabaab has forced the shutdown of health facilities close to the Somalia border in Northern Kenya. A group of women activists are fighting back, ensuring COVID-19 vaccines reach the most vulnerable.

COVID-19: does exercising really reduce the risk?

New research suggests people who exercise for 150 minutes a week are half as likely to die from COVID-19 compared to those who are consistently inactive.

No VIP treatment: Malawi aims for an equitable COVID-19 vaccine roll-out

Since the first consignment of COVAX doses arrived in Malawi in mid-March, vaccination centres like Chileka Health Centre, just outside Blantyre, have recorded enthusiastic turn-out.

COVID-19 ‘led to rise in stillbirths, maternal deaths’

Maternal health in low- and middle-income countries hit hard by COVID-19. Global review analysed stillbirth, maternal death rates from 17 countries. Maternity care must be prioritised during global health crisis, says report 

Global leaders rally to accelerate access to COVID-19 vaccines for lower-income countries

The “One World Protected” Event, hosted today by the United States and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, launched a campaign to raise US$ 2 billion for the global fight against COVID-19.

Ye Olde Anti-Vaxxers

As long as there have been vaccines, a vocal minority of public voices have made it their mission to rile up their communities against vaccination. In Montréal, in 1885, those voices were successful – and the results were deadly.

“I can only run away from death for so long”: Vaccinating Elders in Eswatini

The delivery of COVID-19 vaccines to Eswatini through COVAX means the elderly now have the chance to protect themselves against the disease. VaccinesWork visits a vaccination session in Lobamba.

Will summer slow the spread of COVID-19? New research sheds light

The seasons can affect transmission of the virus – but this will likely be dwarfed by the impact of public health measures.

How to Stop the Poverty Pandemic

Experience shows that innovative and evidence-based approaches, when executed well, can dent poverty. With the COVID-19 pandemic threatening to reverse hard-won global gains, the need for policy-relevant research, and for scaling effective…

What does it take to deliver COVID-19 vaccines?

Ending the COVID-19 crisis hinges on all countries being able to vaccinate their people. A lot goes into getting ready.

Protecting Uganda’s overstretched health workers through COVAX

Over 50 health workers in Uganda have lost their lives to COVID-19 – a huge toll for a country with just 0.17 doctors per thousand people in some areas. With remaining health workers overworked and vulnerable, some relief has come in the form of…

The World’s First Vaccination Campaign

At the turn of the 19th century, news of a 1796 medical breakthrough called 'vaccination' started to spread around the world. A fascinating recent book, War Against Smallpox by Michael Bennett, traces the subsequent dissemination of the actual…

Rolling out COVID-19 vaccines in Rwanda

Kigali – Forty-eight hours after Rwanda received shipments of COVID-19 vaccines, vaccinations began in earnest, with high-risk population given priority. The country plans to vaccinate a third of the population in 2021 and double that figure next…

Getting from zero to 100% – ensuring every child has routine immunisation

New data shows that investing in getting that first vaccination to children can be a turning point in getting them fully immunised.

Lockdown mental fatigue rapidly reversed by social contact, study finds

The study found people bounce back from their mental sluggishness soon after emerging from isolation.

A year of #VaccinesWork in 10 articles answering your most frequently asked questions

To mark one year of #VaccinesWork, we look back at some of the articles that answer the most frequently asked questions about COVID-19 during an unprecedented year for global health.

Protecting human rights in the COVAX roll-out

The COVID-19 pandemic is the biggest economic and social crisis of a lifetime. Human rights are key in shaping our collective pandemic response, both for the public health emergency and the broader impact on people’s lives and livelihoods.

What is the blood clotting disorder the AstraZeneca vaccine has been linked to?

The European Medicines Agency has concluded that there is a possible link between AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine and very rare blood clots. But what are these clots and how great is the risk?

How geospatial technology is helping Nigeria’s COVID-19 vaccine roll-out

In a huge country like Nigeria, ensuring the right people receive COVAX vaccines is not just a question of how, but where. Could geospatial technology, trialled during previous polio campaigns, make a difference?

Bacteria 'shuffle' their genetics around to develop antibiotic resistance on demand

A genetic trick called an integron plays an important role in helping bacteria do this.

Should I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I’ve already had COVID-19?

Natural infection with the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 may not lead to long-lasting immunity, so it is important to get the vaccine as well.

COVAX reaches over 100 economies, 42 days after first international delivery

The COVAX Facility has now delivered life-saving vaccines to over 100 economies since making its first international delivery to Ghana on February 24th.

The age of modern vaccines: An Abridged History of Vaccines, Part 2

As the 19th century entered its final quarter, “vaccination” meant one thing: immunisation with cowpox against deadly smallpox. By the end of the 20th century, safe and effective vaccines existed against 26 killer diseases. In the second part of…

Can a COVID-19 vaccine give me COVID?

Currently approved vaccines incorporate viral proteins or the instructions for making them, but they do not contain any live virus.

Quality, Speed & Equity

Immunization and vaccination experts from around the world outlined the current state of the world’s vaccination campaigns while addressing the urgent needs and concerns regarding public trust in the efficacy of vaccines; access and challenges.…

The end of the pandemic is coming – just don't set a date for the party

History tells us that the end of pandemics are rarely – if ever – neat, uncomplicated, or even easy to date.

The next pandemic: yellow fever?

In the 19th century, yellow fever had taken hold of parts of Europe and the USA, especially the Deep South, killing thousands. Now mostly in Africa and South America, this mosquito-borne disease could spread at any moment, threatening public…

Arriving at the First Vaccine: An Abridged History of Vaccination, Part 1

As early as the 1500s, efforts to halt the spread of smallpox included risky procedures designed to trigger immunity. By the 1800s, these methods – collectively termed “variolation” – had been supplanted by the earliest example of a new, safer…

How does resistance to disinfectants happen? We're on the road to answering the question

The increased use of disinfectants could allow for the development of bacterial strains which are resistant to disinfectants.

Somalia rolls out vaccines for COVID-19


On 15 March 2020, Somalia received 300 000 doses of Oxford AstraZeneca vaccines from the COVAX Facility to protect frontline workers and elderly people with chronic health conditions from COVID-19. The World Health Organization (WHO) hears…

Relieved and hopeful: Reflections after my first COVAX vaccine

In March, Mukami received her first COVAX vaccine dose. As a woman in her 60s living in Kenya, she has priority access to COVAX vaccines, alongside other high-risk groups like health care workers and people with underlying diseases. Here she…

What does water mean to the world?

On 22 March 2021, the world marked World Water Day, with the theme for this year’s celebration being “valuing water.” What can the long history of water’s connection with health teach us about its true value to the world?

How Can Covid Vaccines Be Safe When They Were Developed So Fast?

Experts say there’s nothing new about the research underpinning the covid vaccines and that they were tested in more participants than many other approved vaccines.

Why we need to share vaccine doses now and why COVAX is the right way to do it

Covid-19 vaccination efforts are picking up worldwide, bringing hopes of returning to a more normal life. Vaccines are now starting to reach countries across the globe through the COVAX initiative, set up to promote equitable access to vaccines…

We know hand dryers can circulate germs through the air. Why are they still used everywhere?

What side are you on, paper or dryer? In either case, here's the bottom line on what to do after using the toilet.

Patient Zero: Understanding how new coronavirus variants emerge

By understanding the circumstances that make viral evolution more likely, we stand a better chance of staying a step ahead.

The COVAX Humanitarian Buffer Explained

COVAX was designed to ensure the most vulnerable in every country get access to COVID-19 vaccines. But what about people in conflict zones or humanitarian settings that can’t be reached by government vaccination campaigns? Last week Gavi approved…

COVID-19 vaccines: assessing country readiness

The key insights from the assessments to date present a high-level snapshot of country readiness to deploy COVID-19 vaccines based on initial findings from ongoing assessments in 128 countries.

A year of #VaccinesWork in 10 articles looking at vaccine-preventable diseases other than COVID-19

To mark the first anniversary of #VaccinesWork, we look back at some of the most read articles on diseases other than COVID-19 during an unprecedented year for global health.

5 things to know after you’ve had a COVID-19 vaccine

As more and more people get vaccinated against COVID-19, some are worrying about how ‘normal’ their side effects are. Here’s what you need to know.

Going universal: The search for an all-in-one coronavirus vaccine

Instead of working to make vaccines against each unique coronavirus or variant, what if we could provide broad protection across the field through an all-in-one coronavirus shot?

United States to host launch event for Gavi COVAX AMC 2021 investment opportunity

The virtual event will bring together world leaders, the private sector, civil society, and key technical partners to galvanize resources and commitment to the Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC).

We must better protect wildlife to prevent future pandemics

Wuhan investigation points to wildlife as likely source of COVID-19. Climate change and illegal trade are increasing risk of zoonotic disease transmission. Wildlife protection, surveillance of zoonosis are key to early detection of ‘spillover…

“We’re closer to getting some normalcy back in our lives”: COVAX gets underway in Ghana

Ghana became the first African country to receive vaccines through the COVAX initiative in February. Meet one of the nurses spearheading the vaccination effort.

The next pandemic: H5N1 and H7N9 influenza?

More than 100 years after the 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic, type A influenza virus not only poses one of the largest threats to the modern world, but the risk of spill-over of avian influenza from poultry to humans is growing.

What we learned from tracking every COVID policy in the world

For one year, 600 people tracked 20 types of coronavirus restriction in 186 countries – here's what they found out.

The growing threat of pandemics

Whilst COVID-19 caught the world off guard, the speed at which it spread and the extent of its impact on people’s lives came as a great shock to most. However, some were not surprised at all.

Keeping It Cool: A visit to Ghana’s national vaccine storage facility

Ghana became the first African country to receive COVAX doses in February, kicking off a mammoth logistical effort in the country to get these doses to the frontline workers that need them. #VaccinesWork spoke to the cold chain experts making it…

Africa’s had a 30% rise in COVID-19 cases in the second wave

The continent had a milder first wave than the rest of the world, but research suggests that relaxed public health measures led to the coronavirus rebounding with a vengeance the second time around.

A year of #VaccinesWork in 10 articles from around the world

To mark the first anniversary of #VaccinesWork, we look back at some of the most-read articles on how countries have been navigating COVID-19 during an unprecedentedly challenging year for global health.

Why is a global Covid-19 vaccine rollout vital?

The Covid-19 pandemic is global, and to bring the pandemic to a close, a collaborative, global approach is needed. But why is it so important that all countries have access to vaccines as soon as possible?

Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine's rollercoaster ride continues, but latest results again suggest it is safe and effective

These results can help allay previous concerns in Europe about a lack of trial data for older people.

COVID-19 vaccines: could a squirt up the nose be just as good as a shot in the arm?

There are several COVID-19 vaccines being used around the world, but all need to be injected and some need ultra-cold refrigeration. Could next-generation intranasal vaccines be a quicker and easier way of protecting ourselves?

How far away are we from a new TB vaccine?

Tuberculosis kills millions of people each year, but several recent advances in vaccine development are providing fresh hope.

The next pandemic: Chikungunya?

The tiger mosquito that carries the chikungunya virus is now moving into new habitats in Europe and America thanks to climate change. This means the once tropical disease could soon become a global pandemic threat.

An Ounce of Pandemic Prevention

The global response to the coronavirus pandemic, for all its flaws, has yielded impressive results by ignoring traditional bureaucratic and sectoral silos. That should spur us to raise our ambitions for global public health, with an emphasis on…

Why COVID-19 makes you lose your sense of smell and how to get it back

The virus appears to attack support cells at the back of the nose, but “smell training” may help people to recover their missing sense.

What is Africa’s vaccine production capacity?

Accra, 18 March 2021 – COVID-19 vaccination in Africa is gathering pace, with more than 7 million doses so far administered. But the continent received vaccines later than other regions of the world and in limited quantity. A few weeks after…

“I serve my nation through my profession”: Community vaccinators in Afghanistan

Community vaccinators go where fixed health centres can’t reach. In Afghanistan, that means fighting Taliban injunctions, entrenched gender imbalances and difficult terrain, all to ensure the nation’s children are protected.

Tariah Adams: on tap for women and girls’ right to water, sanitation and hygiene

In today’s blog post, we’re featuring a fierce and passionate female WASH advocate from Nigeria. Tariah Adams, a Senior Communications and Advocacy Officer for White Ribbon Alliance Nigeria and campaign mobilizer, she has a personal interest in…

Learning Beyond the Classroom

At the end of the year 2019, we created an elaborate 2020 plan for our projects at Beyond the Classroom Foundation. As we got closer to our second project scheduled for the end of March, the government imposed a lockdown, banning all public…

COVID shows infectious disease is our greatest threat to global security

Unlike traditional security threats, infectious disease can’t be solved through sanctions, military posturing, deterrence or bilateral diplomacy, but rather through scientific collaboration, long-term investments in global health and resilient…

The next pandemic: Ebola?

Ebola has so far only affected African countries, and occasional cases outside of the continent have been rapidly contained. But the virus could mutate to spread more easily between people, making it more of a pandemic threat.

A year of #VaccinesWork in 10 articles celebrating women in global health

To mark the first anniversary of #VaccinesWork, we look back at some of the most read articles on COVID-19 during an unprecedented year for global health.

Homework: Trial and Error

So far, homeschooling has been trial and error because it’s difficult to keep the twins calm and engaged for long periods of time. We have no fixed curriculum and use online educational programs as a guide. 

“We’ll all be fine”: COVID-19 vaccines arrive at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra

After a difficult year, the vaccination roll-out is underway at Ghana’s premier medical facility, where health workers dare to hope that things can go back to normal.

John Nkengasong on Africa's Vaccine Game Plan

John Nkengasong is the Director of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He is also the WHO special envoy for Africa. John spoke to CovidHQAfrica desk about a range of issues including his vision for the vaccines in Africa, and…

No "us versus them": why equitable inclusion of all migrants in COVID-19 vaccine plans is essential

COVID-19 has demonstrated that viruses not only know no borders, but they also do not discriminate based on immigration status. Failing to take migrants into account in our vaccination efforts would hamper the effectiveness of these campaigns and…

A year of #VaccinesWork in 10 COVID-19 articles

To mark the first anniversary of #VaccinesWork, we look back at some of the most read articles on COVID-19 during an unprecedented year for global health.

Should I invest in a pulse oximeter?

Sales of medical devices that measure the oxygen saturation of blood are booming thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. But are they worth the investment?

Dormant virus reawakening may have triggered Ebola outbreak

Genetic sequencing has linked the recent outbreak of Ebola disease to a survivor of the 2014-16 West Africa epidemic, meaning the virus could have laid dormant in one survivor for over five years. What does this mean for our efforts to control…

Nigeria rallies over 7,000 traditional leaders against COVID-19

Abuja, 12 March 2021 – As the second wave of COVID-19 affects the global health and economic community, the World Health Organization (WHO) is supporting government to engage strategic stakeholders as part of concerted efforts to reverse the…

How can supply keep up with demand for COVID-19 vaccines?

With the historic global roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines in full swing, bottlenecks in the supply chain are inevitable as manufacturing output tries to keep pace with demand. A manufacturing supply chain summit last week outlined potential…

Vaccine Altruists Find Appointments for Those Who Can’t

An army of volunteers help people who otherwise would have had difficulty securing a covid vaccination because of cumbersome computer or telephone registration systems.

Does the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine really cause blood clots?

Various countries have halted the use of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, while reports of blood clots are investigated. Here’s what we know so far.

Battling misinformation wars in Africa: applying lessons from GMOs to COVID-19

For anyone who has worked on crop improvement in Africa over the last three decades, the flood of misinformation around vaccines evokes an eerie sense of déjà vu.

The next pandemic: Nipah virus?

Nipah virus can kill as many as three out of four people it infects. Since the fruit bat that carries the virus often comes into contact with humans, here we explain why the development of drugs and vaccines for the disease is becoming…

Why do some people with COVID-19 get sicker than others?

Our immune systems are supposed to defend us from invading pathogens but, in the case of COVID-19, an immune overreaction may be to blame for severe illness.

'Like being hit with a cricket bat’: A doctor’s battle with long COVID

Dr Paul Garner, a British infectious disease expert at the UK’s Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine caught COVID-19 early in 2020, and then developed Long COVID. Here, he talks frankly with Gavi about his experiences, how he recovered and how…

When can children get the COVID-19 vaccine? 5 questions parents are asking

COVID-19 vaccine testing on children is just getting started, and only in adolescents.

Why Ebola is back in Guinea and why the response must be different this time

The virus is always present in nature and when circumstances allow, it may jump from one species to another.

A history of quarantine

Since COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic, many countries around the world imposed some form of quarantine to control its spread. What can the history of quarantine teach us about isolation and lockdowns now?

Diphtheria may resurface as a ‘major global threat’ study warns.

Researchers identify bacterial variants that may be evolving resistance to antimicrobials and vaccines.

Ten lessons from Ogun State - from first COVID-19 case in Nigeria to building a resilient response

Vivianne Ihekweazu (Lead writer): On the day marking one year since the first COVID-19 case was reported in Nigeria, this article reflects on the experience and lessons learnt from the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker as she led…

At the end of the tunnel: the virus – then the vaccine – reach a remote Himalayan valley

For the people of Lahaul, the opening of a new high-altitude tunnel ends years of wintertime isolation – and opens a vital route of access for COVID-19 vaccines.

AstraZeneca vaccine: careless talk has dented confidence and uptake in Europe

Stockpiles of this vaccine are going unused in France and Germany, and unfounded criticism of it may be partly to blame.

Keeping the Cold Chain Cold: The Importance of Maintenance

This is the third in a three-part series highlighting key lessons learned since the launch, four years ago, of the Cold Chain Equipment Optimization Platform (CCEOP), established by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to ensure optimal cold chain…

Private sector innovation meets public health expectations

This is the second in a three-part series highlighting key lessons learned since the launch, four years ago, of the Cold Chain Equipment Optimization Platform (CCEOP), established by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to ensure optimal cold chain…

Breaking the glass vial: Women at the forefront of COVID-19 vaccine

Leaders in global health have been working on COVAX – a global initiative to ensure the fair distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Some of the top jobs are held by a diverse group of women, so in honour of International Women's Day we'd like to…

International Women's Day 2021

For this year's International Women's Day VaccinesWork has interviewed a number of women leaders and front line workers who represent this year's IWD theme: #ChooseToChallenge

International Women’s Day 2021: “Women come to me and I guide them”

This International Women’s Day Vaccines Work is hosting a series of interviews with inspirational women from across the world. Here Nighat Rani, a vaccinator in Pakistan, shows how her work rests on a bedrock of female empathy and understanding…

International Women’s Day: Chizoba Wonodi on the importance of a good mentor

This International Women’s Day Vaccines Work is hosting a series of interviews with inspirational women from across the world. Here Professor Chizoba Wonodi, Founder of Women Advocates for Vaccine Access in Nigeria and Country Director at the…

International Women’s Day: Quarraisha Abdool Karim on the fight against HIV

This International Women’s Day Vaccines Work is hosting a series of interviews with inspirational women from across the world. Here Professor Quarraisha Abdool Karim, epidemiologist and associate scientific director for CAPRISA – the Centre for…

International Women’s Day: Heidi Larson and the fight against vaccine hesitancy

This International Women’s Day Vaccines Work is hosting a series of interviews with inspirational women from across the world. Here Professor Heidi Larson, Founding Director of the Vaccine Confidence Project, explains how gender can affect…

International Women’s Day: Caring for Everyone: an ASHA worker’s COVID-19 story

This International Women’s Day Vaccines Work is hosting a series of interviews with inspirational women from across the world. Here Rathnamma P, an 'ASHA' in Bengaluru, India, explains how the country's army of one million female community health…

International Women’s Day: Anuradha Gupta on ‘choose to challenge’

This International Women’s Day Vaccines Work is hosting a series of interviews with inspirational women from across the world. Here Anuradha Gupta, Gavi’s Deputy CEO, explains what ‘choose to challenge’ – this year’s IWD theme – means to her.

The value of COVID-19 vaccines in children: Roadmap for a safer world

To make the world safe from COVID-19, we need everyone vaccinated, including children. To get back to normality, we also need vaccinated adults, ongoing safety measures, safe re-opening of schools, access to all recommended vaccines – and…

A little less hesitation, a little more action - Elvis and the polio vaccine

As political and public health leaders across the world work to encourage people to get vaccinated against COVID-19, what can they learn from the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll getting jabbed?

The ins and outs of Kenya's COVID-19 vaccine rollout plan

Reaching the goals of the plan requires the best possible interaction between public and private -for profit and not-for-profit - healthcare sectors.

Drone delivered COVID-19 vaccines take to the air

The first deliveries of up to 2.5 million doses of COVAX vaccines by autonomous drone began this week in Ghana.

What is COVID-19 vaccine efficacy?

Several vaccines that have become available have shown different levels of efficacy. So what is vaccine efficacy? Dr Lee Hampton, a paediatrician and medical epidemiologist with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, explains.

Scientists edge closer to a universal flu vaccine

A vaccine that apparently protects animals against multiple strains of flu has been created by tethering a relatively unchanging part of the surface proteins found on the virus to nanoparticles.

How to make sure COVID-19 vaccines reach as many people as possible

As more COVID-19 vaccines become available, countries the world over are now faced with the daunting task of carrying out mass vaccinations. Here, one expert explains how her organisation is supporting rollouts in the US and offers insights…

Why I volunteered to be infected with coronavirus

Most people have been doing everything they can to avoid getting COVID-19, but in the coming days British history student Jacob Hopkins has chosen to be deliberately infected with SARS-CoV-2 as part of the world’s first Challenge Trial. He…

COVID vaccines: how to make sense of reports on their effectiveness

Real-world studies of vaccines aren't directly comparable with clinical trials, but their results are still good news.

5 reasons to believe the COVID-19 pandemic might be slowing down

COVID-19 cases are falling week on week, so can we allow ourselves to be hopeful?

The first COVAX vaccinations begin

COVID-19 vaccination campaigns using COVAX-funded doses commenced today in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, the first global rollout.

Country readiness for COVID-19 vaccines

This article is part of a series of explainers on vaccine development and distribution. Learn more about vaccines – from how they work and how they’re made to ensuring safety and equitable access – in WHO’s Vaccines Explained series.

COVAX vaccines take to the air by drone

Ghana is not only the first country to receive a shipment of COVAX vaccines, but it will be the first to broaden its reach by delivering them by drone. The new partnership with Zipline and UPS Foundation will see 2.5 million doses delivered this…

COVID-19: what happens if some countries don't vaccinate?

Even those that live in areas where the population has already been vaccinated would not be totally protected if the virus mutates elsewhere.

Planning for Success: Project Management Teams for the CCEOP

The first in a three-part series of blogs highlighting key lessons learned since the launch, four years ago, of the Cold Chain Equipment Optimization Platform (CCEOP), established by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to ensure optimal cold chain…

How Roald Dahl became a passionate vaccine advocate

Roald Dahl's daughter Olivia died of measles aged seven.

Why vaccine side effects might be more common in people who've already had COVID-19

Minor side effects are a normal sign that the immune system is mounting a protective response following vaccination, although they aren’t universal.

Ebola strikes West Africa again: key questions and lessons from the past

Countries in the West Africa region are in a very different position to seven years ago. They now have the experience of the past as well as new tools to tackle Ebola.

Real-world data supports the use of AstraZeneca vaccine in older individuals

Vaccine data from Scotland provides reassurance that the Oxford-AstraZeneca and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines will significantly reduce hospitalisations and deaths from COVID-19 among older people after the first dose.

African countries have an advantage in rolling out Covid-19 vaccines

The continent is one of the most experienced regions in the world in dealing with disease outbreaks.

Why do antibodies fade after a COVID-19 infection, and will the same thing happen with vaccines?

Maintaining antibodies in the blood requires creating certain long-lasting immune cells – but this doesn't always happen.

Will we ever get rid of COVID-19?

The pandemic won’t last forever, but the virus that causes COVID-19 might. Here we look at what we can expect over the next couple of years in a Q&A with Dr Lee Hampton, pediatrician and medical epidemiologist at Gavi.

How long does immunity last against Ebola?

The tracking of antibodies in Ebola survivors suggests they wax and wane, which could make vaccine booster shots necessary.

No Time to Waste

Saving the planet from catastrophic climate change will require not only a dramatic increase in funding for clean-energy research and development. We need innovation in policy just as much as in technology.

The $4 trillion economic cost of not vaccinating the entire world

The world's most advanced economies will incur half the total costs associated with a failure to vaccinate poorer nations, which could exceed $4 trillion if only half their citizens are inoculated.

Could a universal coronavirus vaccine future-proof our response?

With three major coronavirus outbreaks in the last two decades – first SARS-CoV, then MERS-CoV, and now SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19 – another outbreak is inevitable. Scientists are calling for the world to step up the search for a universal…

What are COVID-19 challenge trials and why do we need them?

A new trial about to start in the UK will deliberately infect people with the virus that causes COVID-19 – if we have vaccines already, why do we need this?

Tackling pandemic threats proactively

If we are to minimize the impact of future disease outbreaks, we must recognize the importance of immunization and invest in preemptive vaccine development, writes Tim Keys.

100 years and counting of mask wearing in Japan

As wearing face masks in public becomes the new normal across the world, what can we learn from a country like Japan, where this has been a long-established practice?

Grab, jab and release: keeping rabies off the streets of Goa

The global effort to contain COVID-19 risks disrupting campaigns against other diseases. Will the fight to control the deadly rabies virus in India be among them?

The largest global rollout of vaccines in history just got one step closer

The World Health Organization has given the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine an Emergency Use Listing, passing an important milestone before the first delivery of COVAX vaccines worldwide.

Vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 will have side effects – that's a good thing

The side effects of new SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are a result of immune system activation. While uncomfortable, they are both normal and expected. They are a sign that the vaccine is working.

Vaccine Solidarity Now

The G7 has an opportunity to demonstrate global leadership in the COVID-19 pandemic by making the success of the international COVAX vaccine-access facility its top priority. Global solidarity is not only morally right, but also offers the…

How have Covid-19 vaccines been made quickly and safely?

Unprecedented international cooperation and focus have led to multiple effective and safe Covid-19 vaccines in less than a year, and created a blueprint for future vaccine development. Here's how

Why having COVID-19 data on men and women is critical

COVID-19 deaths differ among men and women but the differences are not reported. A project is building sex-aggregated data on COVID-19 globally. Such data is key to developing effective solutions to fight COVID-19.

Side Effects and COVID-19 Vaccines: What to Expect

It’s totally normal to experience side effects from COVID-19 vaccines. Here’s what you need to know.

Could new outbreaks put Ebola vaccines to the test once again

Guinea is having its first Ebola outbreak since 2016, when West Africa experienced the biggest outbreak ever seen. Could the vaccine that contained previous outbreaks soon be redeployed?

COVAX Statement on WHO Emergency Use Listing for AstraZeneca/Oxford COVID-19 Vaccine

Geneva / New York / Oslo – 15 February 2021 The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance (Gavi) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), as co-leads of the COVAX initiative for equitable global access to…

When will the world be vaccinated against Covid-19?

With the first Covid-19 vaccines in short supply, how do governments decide who gets a vaccine first?

Is the colonial era still impacting people’s health today?

A new study suggests that historical traumas from the French colonial era may be associated with less trust in modern medicine and lower vaccination rates today.

COVID-19 variants are not going away, but vaccines may help make that OK

Clinically significant SARS-CoV-2 variants are likely to be here to stay, but multiple COVID-19 vaccines still have a role to play.

All roads lead to Ocean: how cancer treatment works in Tanzania

In Tanzania, the Ocean Road Cancer Institute is doing its part to ensure that people across the country can receive cancer treatment and care, regardless of their ability to pay.

The Gavi COVAX AMC Explained

Gavi’s CEO explains how the COVAX Advance Market Commitment mechanism will make COVID-19 vaccines available to lower-income countries.

Last Mile Delivery: How Borno State is reaching children in conflict zones with routine immunisation services

Maina Modu is the programme manager for Routine Immunisation in Borno State, working with the State Primary Health Care Development Agency (SPHCDA). He coordinates the state emergency routine immunisation coordination centre activities.

Tackling the COVID Hunger Crisis

The choice facing world leaders is simple: act now to tackle the hunger crisis, or pay a much higher price later. Immediate action will be cheaper and save more lives than responding only after multiple famines have taken hold and a generation’s…

Community Health Workers, Often Overlooked, Bring Trust to the Pandemic Fight

As the pandemic brings long-standing health disparities into sharper view, community health workers are coming to the forefront in the public health response. This fast-growing workforce help fill the gaps between health care providers and low-…

A leap forward in vaccine technology

By building on the lessons learned in 2020, it should be possible in the long term to compress vaccine development timelines still further. That would allow healthcare systems to stamp out disease outbreaks much earlier and save many more lives…

Do COVID-19 variants mean that we need a booster shot for our booster?

Oxford scientists are already working on an updated version of their COVID-19 vaccine to ensure people remain fully protected against new variants of SARS-CoV-2. But how would these be delivered and how often would they be needed? 

WHO experts have just recommended the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine: here’s what they found

The recommendations offer reassurance amid concern over whether some vaccines are as effective against new variants.

The Silent Pandemic of Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance has been a slow-growing scourge, fueled in part by relatively weak political support for implementing national action plans and surveillance systems. Because the problem is essentially the result of multiple systems failures…

Reaching Pakistan’s zero-dose children during the COVID-19 pandemic

In Islamabad’s slums, Gavi-supported Civil Society Human and Institutional Development Programme is ensuring that parents know that their children can be vaccinated safely by following COVID-19 guidelines.

All aboard the vaccine minibus: getting immunisation back on track in Pakistan

In Pakistan, a life-saving game of immunisation catch-up is underway after the COVID-19 emergency forced over a million children to miss out on routine vaccinations.

How important are surfaces in the transmission of COVID-19?

Contaminated doorknobs and packaging probably aren’t the main way the coronavirus spreads. But don’t throw away the hand gel and cleaning products just yet.

Will coronavirus really evolve to become less deadly?

The coronavirus is evolving, but which path it will take is far from certain.

The world's last smallpox patient

Smallpox was one of the deadliest diseases in the world, but it’s the only one in history to have been eradicated globally. One Somali man sat on the frontline of this effort and can inspire the world today as we battle yet another devastating…

What are 'adverse events' and 'emergency use authorisation' in relation to vaccination?

While vaccines are the safest way to prevent the spread of infectious disease, a tiny proportion of those vaccinated may experience an adverse event. Here, we explain how often this happens and why.

Here’s how we could stop antimicrobial resistance becoming the next pandemic

Antimicrobial resistance was already a major global health threat, but now the potential increase in the use of antibiotics in response to the pandemic could exacerbate the problem and threaten a potentially even bigger global crisis.

What’s the most effective face mask for preventing COVID-19 transmission?

Face coverings have become a standard feature of pandemic life, but which mask is best for everyday use, and how should you take care of it?

Protecting Lower-Income Countries with COVID-19 Vaccines Requires Global Solidarity

The medical and moral imperative for equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines is why COVAX was created. Co-led by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, together with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness…

4 things about mRNA COVID vaccines researchers still want to find out

Researchers are already working to improve the current crop of mRNA vaccines. Hopefully this will help them become more practical and affordable for the entire world, not just first-world countries.

How COVID-19 is altering cold and flu seasons

Pandemic restrictions and wider use of flu vaccines may have explained 2020’s record low cases of seasonal flu, but will the picture look like in tropical countries with year-round flu?

COVAX Statement on New Variants of SARS-CoV-2

The emergence of variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, serve as a powerful reminder that viruses by their very nature mutate, and that the scientific response may need to adapt if they are to remain effective against them.

How the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine could still help the battle against the COVID-19 variant

Research suggesting that one of the COVID-19 vaccines provides only minimal protection against mild-moderate infection caused by the 501.Y.V2 variant has raised concerns. But this doesn’t mean it won’t prevent severe disease and deaths.

Eliminating cervical cancer depends on global effort to ensure supply meets demand

Global access to HPV vaccine is vital, particularly in lower-income countries. Lessons learned from HPV roll-out could boost uptake of COVID-19 vaccines.

Why even a low efficacy COVID-19 vaccine could still be extremely useful

Efficacy rates for COVID-19 vaccines are higher than many scientists had dared dream of, but even if they prove less effective in real life, or in the face of new variants, they could still unlock normal life.

Who can’t have a COVID-19 vaccine?

The currently available coronavirus vaccines have been tested on adults of various ages, as well as those with long-term conditions, and appear to be safe. But there are a few groups who should avoid being vaccinated for now.

The Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine could stop transmission of the virus

Several COVID-19 vaccines may have now demonstrated their ability to prevent disease, but it was still not clear whether any could stop the virus being passed on. Now however a preliminary study suggests that some might also be able to reduce…

Can the world ever be cervical cancer-free?

As World Cancer Day approaches amidst the COVID-19 pandemic,  it’s now more important than ever to ensure continued access to HPV vaccines to eliminate cervical cancer around the world.

Women Leaders in Polio Eradication: Dr. Alda Morais Pedro De Sousa

Dr. De Sousa has spent more than twenty years charting the highs and lows of polio eradication in Angola.

How safe are COVID-19 vaccines?

Given the speed at which COVID-19 vaccines have been developed, it is understandable that people want to know whether they are safe. So what measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of these new vaccines?

Everything we know about Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose Covid-19 vaccine

The single-dose vaccine showed promising results in preliminary data from a phase 3 clinical trial.

The next step: Lifesaving typhoid conjugate vaccines reach Punjab province, Pakistan

Punjab province introduces typhoid conjugate vaccine, taking the next step in protecting children from typhoid in Pakistan.

How India is using a digital track and trace system to ensure COVID-19 vaccines reach everyone

A system originally designed to do real-time monitoring of vaccine supply chains in India has now been adapted to help ensure COVID-19 vaccines reach as many people as possible.

Results from Novavax vaccine trials in the UK and South Africa differ: why, and does it matter?

The results indicate that the vaccine efficacy in the UK was 89% for individuals who received at least two doses of vaccine. In South Africa, the vaccine efficacy was 60% in people without HIV.

COVAX publishes first interim distribution forecast

Geneva/Oslo/New York, 3 February 2021 – The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the World Health Organisation, as co-leads of the COVAX initiative for equitable global access to COVID-19 vaccines…

COVID-19 vaccines are now approved in some countries. What will it take to approve them for the rest of the world?

With the World Health Organization inviting COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers to submit their candidates for evaluation, we examine the process from submission to Emergency Use Listing.

COVID-19 variant found in Brazil ‘spreads faster’

Manaus variant spreads faster and could carry higher risk of infection. Researchers believe new variant spread from Brazil to Asia. Fast, widespread vaccination is best way to slow down mutations.

When Your Chance for a Covid Shot Comes, Don’t Worry About the Numbers

When getting vaccinated against covid-19, there’s no sense being picky. You should take the first authorized vaccine that’s offered, experts say.

Q&A: Tales from the COVID frontline – coping with the pandemic on a psychiatric ward

Irene Baker* is a care assistant at a psychiatric hospital in England. She describes the challenges of caring for mentally ill patients during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The body's fight against COVID-19 explained using 3D-printed models

A biologist explains what proteins do in viruses, how they interact with human cells, how the vaccine delivers mRNA into the cell and how antibodies protect us.

New GPEI Director Aidan O’Leary takes helm of global polio effort

In a special one-off interview, PolioNews (PN) talks to both Aidan O’Leary (A-O’L) and Michel Zaffran (MZ) about the future of polio eradication.

Vaccine cold chain Q&A

Pfizer and Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine candidates have turned the vaccine cold chain into hot news. But what is a cold chain? How does it work? And what does it have to do with equity?

4 of our greatest achievements in vaccine science (that led to COVID vaccines)

We've gone from a novel virus to several COVID-19 vaccines in less than a year. Here's what we've learned from earlier vaccines to allow this to happen.

COVAX Supply Forecast reveals where and when COVID-19 vaccines will be delivered

COVAX is forecasting it will roll out over 2 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses in 2021. What does that mean for the world’s poorest countries?

How much of an impact do vaccines really have?

The world’s most comprehensive study reveals all! A new study looking at the impact of vaccinations in 98 countries over the past 20 years concludes that 37 million people are alive today thanks to vaccines.

Will the Covid-19 vaccine work on the new variants?

Scientists are working to understand what mutations of the virus mean for inoculation strategies.

How will COVID-19 vaccines be approved for use in Australia?

Australia is set to get the green light to roll out the Pfizer vaccine any day now. There is a complex process behind this.

The state of the world’s sanitation

To achieve universal sanitation, we need greater investment and higher rates of sanitation coverage.

Is there an economic case for global vaccinations?

New research adds to the argument that the global distribution of COVID-19 vaccines is the most optimal solution for a global economic recovery.

What if I don’t get my second Covid-19 vaccine dose on time?

Don't panic if a second dose isn't available exactly when you need it.

Friendship Bench: Zimbabwe’s Community-based Talk-Therapy Supporting Communities during the COVID-19 Pandemic

In Zimbabwe, Friendship Bench, a community-based approach is providing solutions to people struggling with their mental health during this pandemic.

The importance of blood markers in assessing vaccine efficacy

If vaccine efficacy can’t be assessed through placebo-controlled trials in future, how can we know if they are effective?

Hesitancy over new COVID-19 vaccines doesn’t seem likely to affect uptake

The initial concern that nervousness over the new vaccines would slow uptake doesn’t seem to have become a reality in the early days of COVID-19 immunisation, although it will be critical to maintain vaccine confidence suggests an Ipsos poll.

South African scientists who discovered new COVID-19 variant share what they know

Scientists have observed that 501Y.V2 has quickly become "dominant" among multiple variants that have been circulating in the South African population.

Door to Door in Miami’s Little Havana to Build Trust in Testing, Vaccination

It’s time-consuming but worthwhile: Residents respond to messages about Covid testing and vaccines when outreach teams speak their language and make a personal connection.

COVID-19 impact ‘vastly underestimated’ in African countries

Zambian data challenges the assumption African populations may have been spared from COVID-19.

How accurate are lateral flow tests?

Will these rapid tests really allow us to lower our guard during the pandemic?

COVID-19 and the cost of vaccine nationalism

Without a vaccine, the worldwide economic impact of COVID-19 would have been $3.4 trillion a year. But even with a COVID-19 vaccine, unequal allocation could cost the global economy up to $1.2 trillion a year in GDP.

Why healthy food and its local production should be part of the COVID-19 response

COVID-19 is deepening global food insecurity, as the pandemic’s economic impact adds to existing challenges.

Coronavirus: why combining the Oxford vaccine with Russia's Sputnik V vaccine could make it more effective

Vaccines that use harmless viruses as a delivery mechanism are vulnerable to being attacked by our immune system – but experimenting with how they are given could get around this.

Delaying the second COVID vaccine dose – a medical expert answers key questions

A medical professor explains the reasoning behind the delay in the UK and what impact this might have on the vaccine's effectiveness.

COVAX announces new agreement, plans for first deliveries

COVAX announced the signing of an advance purchase agreement for up to 40 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine; rollout to commence with successful execution of supply agreements.

Could coronavirus persist in ‘safe havens’ of the body?

Some people continue to shed viral RNA for weeks or months after developing COVID-19. Could persistent pockets of infection be to blame?

The public health impact of a single-dose HPV vaccination schedule

New review of evidence on a single-dose HPV vaccination schedule is published by PATH-led consortium.

COVID-19 policy briefs must be realistic: a review by young southern African scientists

African leaders can make strategies to fight COVID-19 more accessible to the people.

Lasting immunity: Why COVID-19 vaccines may succeed where natural infections fail

Immunity to most coronaviruses is short-lived, but will the same hold true for the virus that causes COVID-19 or vaccines against it?

What it takes to vaccinate 39 million children in Pakistan

Health workers take COVID-19 precautions to deliver polio drops.

The Ethics of Prioritizing COVID-19 Vaccination

In the United States and some other countries, members of disadvantaged racial and ethnic minorities have a lower-than-average life expectancy, and therefore are under-represented among those most likely to die from COVID-19. How should…

5 Reasons to Wear a Mask Even After You’re Vaccinated

Vaccination, face coverings and physical distancing are essential parts of a team effort against the coronavirus.

Breaking down barriers: UNICEF volunteers lead sanitation survey across Bangladesh

Young volunteers gain new skills and give back to their communities.

Mutating coronavirus: reaching herd immunity just got harder, but there is still hope

New variants will push the number needed to reach herd immunity up.

Will the new variant of COVID-19 make re-infection more likely?

New variants of the coronavirus are causing alarm across the UK and South Africa, with many countries closing their borders to travellers from these countries. But what effect could new strains have on our ability to control the pandemic?

South Sudan: We are ready to take up the challenge

Western Equatoria Ministry of Health and UNICEF are preparing for COVID-19 vaccination campaigns.

Eureka! Two Vaccines Work — But What About the Also-Rans in the Pharma Arms Race?

How two effective vaccines on the market make it so much harder to quickly test any competing vaccines.

How COVID-19 is placing increased pressure on water resources for farmers in Cameroon

In Cameroon’s Marua region, the pandemic means farmers are now faced with the double challenge of using what limited water resources they have to grow crops while saving lives through handwashing.

If I delay getting a COVID-19 vaccine, what impact will it have?

Taking a wait-and-see approach to COVID-19 vaccines could lead to only pockets of the population being protected. Will this be enough to end the pandemic?

Oxford scientists: how we developed our COVID-19 vaccine in record time

What normally takes decades has been achieved in 12 months, without cutting corners.

How South Africa is preparing for its COVID-19 vaccine introduction

As participating countries look towards receiving their first batch of COVID-19 vaccines through the COVAX Facility, we examine how South Africa is ramping up its readiness.

Has Covid-19 permanently altered the development timetable for other vaccines?

Covid-19 has changed the world of vaccines, but that doesn't mean all diseases will get treatments as quickly.

Preparing ahead: How Imo State harnessed the REDISSE project to improve its COVID-19 response

As at January 12, 2021, Nigeria has had over a hundred thousand confirmed cases of the novel 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection. The pandemic has continued to challenge healthcare system...

Heading Off the Next Pandemic

As long as humans encroach on nature, pandemics are inevitable — making it important to concentrate resources in areas where people and wildlife are linked.

Could COVID-19 vaccines be tweaked to cover new coronavirus variants?

We’ve always been able to adapt vaccines to protect against emerging variants and additional pathogen strains, but new vaccine platforms could make this even easier.

What is it like to receive two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine? One 92-year-old shares his experience.

On 8 January, Derrick C became one of the first people in the UK to receive his second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, three weeks after the first dose. Here we ask him what that was like.

How to keep Ebola vaccines at -70°C?

As a Gavi-funded emergency stockpile of Ebola vaccines becomes accessible, we look at the ultra-cold chain equipment used to keep these vaccines at the right temperature.

Can you spread Covid-19 if you get the vaccine?

Answering this question will take us one step closer to our new normal.

Why resistance is common in antibiotics, but rare in vaccines

How resistance to drugs originates, and why it's different for vaccines.

Why lockdown can be bad for your immune system - and what to do about it

Lockdowns are an effective way of reducing COVID-19 infections, but they could take a more general toll on our health if we allow them to.

COVID-19 immunity: how long does it last?

Long-term protection will depend on the 'memory response' developed by our immune systems – and the initial signs are promising.

From biodefence to the DRC: How the Ebola vaccine became one of the fastest vaccines to license in history

COVID-19 vaccines are set to become the quickest vaccines in history to go from initial trials to rollout, but what lessons can we learn from its speedy predecessor: the Ebola vaccine?

Lessons from Rwanda’s Fight Against COVID-19

While some of the world's richest and most technologically advanced countries have struggled to contain the spread and morbidity of COVID-19, Rwanda has set a shining example of how to manage a pandemic and safeguard public health. Chief among…

Why delivering COVID-19 vaccines might be just as hard as developing them

From Liability Laws to Production Delays, the 2009 H1N1 Swine Flu Vaccine Rollout Offers a Cautionary Tale for Today.

Coronavirus: few vaccines prevent infection – here’s why that’s not a problem

Sterilising immunity means that the immune system is able to completely prevent a virus from replicating in your body. Not all vaccines provide this.

Trekking through the snow to deliver vaccines

Vaccinators tackle winter conditions and challenging contexts during Afghanistan’s last polio campaign of the year.

COVID-19 comes as a double blow to those living with HIV

In March 2020, as soon as the first cases of COVID-19 were detected in Kyrgyzstan, a state of emergency was declared, and the country went into lockdown.

Can Poor Countries Avoid a Vaccine Bidding War?

For all of the good news about the arrival of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines, the hard truth for the coming year is that global demand will outpace supply. Without a multilateral agreement to allocate doses globally, the road to recovery…

Is altering the dosing strategy of COVID-19 vaccines a good idea?

Uncertainty in the availability of vaccine doses is prompting some countries to consider altering dosing schedules, or mixing different vaccine types. How could this impact the effectiveness of vaccines?

COVID-19 FAQs: The 10 questions you need to know the answer to

We believe the best way to address misconceptions is to arm yourself with the facts and have a few key points and statistics. Here’s our list of facts to combat common misinformation.

Coronavirus vaccines: how will we know when life can go back to normal?

Here's what we still need to find out before we can know when we'll be able to return to our pre-coronavirus ways.

Globalizing the COVID Vaccine

In less than a year, the world has come together to develop effective COVID-19 vaccines and a multilateral platform for allocating them most efficiently around the world. But with the risk of vaccine nationalism still looming large, now is the…

What do the new COVID-19 variants mean for vaccine development?

Viruses are constantly mutating and often this process does not have any impact on the risk they pose to humans. However, occasionally mutations can occur which make it easier for viruses to infect us, or which could render vaccines against them…

Long COVID: who is at risk?

Long-lasting symptoms appear unrelated to how bad your infection was, though women appear more affected than men.

What you need to know about a COVID-19 vaccine

Answers to the most common questions about coronavirus vaccine development.

Managing Well in the Work-From-Home Era

Managers owe it to their employees to stop treating work from home like a luxury. The office wasn’t invited into the home. It turned up like an unexpected guest – and it shows few signs of leaving soon.

What are whole virus vaccines and how could they be used against COVID-19?

Whole virus vaccines use a weakened or deactivated version of the disease-causing virus to trigger protective immunity against it.

Seven vital questions about RNA Covid-19 vaccines

The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Covid-19 vaccines are more than 90% effective, as reported in phase III clinical trials – and the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is the first Covid-19 vaccine to be licensed.

What are viral vector-based vaccines and how could they be used against COVID-19?

Viral vector-based vaccines use a harmless virus to smuggle the instructions for making antigens from the disease-causing virus into cells, triggering protective immunity against it.

How close are we to a ‘workable’ HIV vaccine?

Despite huge advancements in the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS in recent decades, an effective vaccine remains elusive – and is desperately needed to end the global pandemic that kills more than 700,000 people each year.

Severe COVID may be caused by 'autoantibodies' – here is what that means

Antibodies that go rogue and attack healthy tissue identified in patients with severe COVID.

What are protein subunit vaccines and how could they be used against COVID-19?

Protein subunit vaccines use fragments of protein from the disease-causing virus to trigger protective immunity against it.

What are nucleic acid vaccines and how could they be used against COVID-19?

Nucleic acid vaccines use genetic material from a disease-causing virus to trigger protective immunity against it.

Rethinking healthcare in Africa with geospatial mapping

In August 2020, Nigeria became the last African country to be declared free from wild poliovirus.

Five mantras for effective COVID-19 vaccine communication

Well-designed communication can increase healthy behaviours, including vaccine uptake. Here are our top five mantras for how to think about COVID-19 vaccine communication.

MVIP update – 1 million doses administered, Kenya 1st anniversary, cooperation for vaccine access

Kenya marked its 1st anniversary of the launch of the pilot in September, with more than 128,000 children reached with vaccine, and one country health official expressing “a great sense of pride” in being part of the effort to protect children…

What you need to know about COVID-19 vaccine approvals in Nigeria and South Africa

Before any COVID-19 vaccines can be delivered to the public, their use must be approved by national regulatory authorities. We look into the process before vaccines would be approved for distribution and use in Nigeria and South Africa.

A united front: building vaccine confidence during a pandemic

To combat vaccine misinformation at home and around the globe, we must build trust.

What to expect when you get a COVID-19 vaccine

Now that the first COVID-19 vaccine has been approved, and others are on the way, what does getting vaccinated actually involve? Here are some of the logistics involved and what to expect after you’ve had your vaccine.

There are four types of COVID-19 vaccines: here’s how they work

The fight against COVID-19 has seen vaccine development move at record speed, with more than 170 different vaccines in trials. But how are they different from each other and how will they protect us against the disease?

Two billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been secured to ensure that no-one misses out

The COVAX Facility plans to start rolling out the doses in early 2021 to high-risk groups in participating countries, with the aim of vaccinating up to 20% of populations of participating countries by the end of the year.

To be effective, COVID-19 vaccination plans must include migrants

As we prepare for one of the world’s largest vaccination efforts, and on the occasion of International Migrants Day, we are coming to a critical reckoning: the need for inclusive approaches in our health-related thinking and practices has never…

There’s a new strain of COVID-19 – should we worry?

Viruses mutate all the time, but this new mutation affects the viral protein that invades human cells. What does this mean for the pandemic and the vaccine?

Ask an Expert: Why Are There So Many COVID-19 Vaccines — and Is It Better to Have More?

Vaccines have been approved – so why are we still developing others?

How did scientists manage to develop safe COVID-19 vaccines in just ten months?

The COVID-19 vaccines currently rolling off production lines have been developed faster than any other vaccine against a new disease in history. How have scientists achieved this incredible feat? And could the lessons learned enable more rapid…

Why get vaccinated when the flu vaccine doesn’t work well?

The best way we can prevent flu infection is by getting vaccinated. The problem with the flu vaccine is that in some years it doesn’t work as well as others.

Can I catch COVID-19 from Christmas wrapping paper?

Coronavirus can survive on surfaces, so should unwrapping presents be considered risky? We examine the evidence.

More typhoid conjugate vaccines, more impact

A second typhoid conjugate vaccine has achieved WHO prequalification and others are in development. More vaccines will help increase access to TCVs.

2020 Year in Review: The impact of COVID-19 in 12 charts

12 charts provide an overview of our research in the face of a truly unprecedented crisis.

Will an mRNA vaccine alter my DNA?

Some of the COVID-19 vaccines use messenger RNA to provoke an immune response. But what exactly is this genetic material, and how does it interact with the DNA in our cells?

A 4-point checklist for assessing countries' vaccine readiness

As the new COVID-19 vaccines begin to ship out, how ready are health systems to manage delivery? Here are four ways countries should frame that question.

Getting girls on board with the HPV vaccine

New girl-centered toolkit helps health officials develop and implement communications campaigns that resonate with girls in their countries.

Rallying to vaccinate every child against polio

Community mobilizers inform and prepare communities for vaccinators.

How to stay safe from COVID-19 this festive period

COVID-19-related restrictions differ from country to country, but as families gather to celebrate during the festive holidays there are some important things you can do to protect yourselves and your loved ones against coronavirus.

What do immunity passports and vaccination certificates mean for COVID-19 restrictions?

Here’s why continuing to physically distance and wear masks is vital until we can be sure how long vaccine-acquired immunity lasts.

What psychology can tell us about why some people don’t wear masks – and how to change their minds

Some people respond strongly to perceived threats to their freedom and push back – others are simply more accepting of risk.

Are African countries ready for the COVID-19 vaccine?

Preparing African countries for COVID-19 vaccines will require thoughtful planning and unprecedented coordination across a wide-range of stakeholders.

Oxford COVID-19 vaccine: newly published results show it is safe – but questions remain over its efficacy

We need more data on the low-dose, high-dose regimen used in one arm of the trial, which may make the vaccine more effective.

Mobile phone data reveals the most effective strategies for reducing COVID spread

Restaurants, gyms and religious establishments appear to account for most coronavirus infections in US cities, but new analysis suggests there are strategies which can reduce the risks.

Could Ebola survivors hold the key to understanding long COVID?

Like patients with long COVID, some Ebola survivors have lingering symptoms which can make it difficult to work or function in everyday life. Dr Janet Scott has been studying these survivors, and now also has her sights on COVID-19. She tells us…

Routine vaccinations during a pandemic – benefit or risk?

Some countries may stop their vaccination programs for a while to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. But which is better: fewer coronavirus infections or making sure children get all their usual vaccinations?

What COVID is costing women

Without a greater focus on the gender dynamics of the COVID-19 crisis, women and girls will suffer long-term handicaps that constrain their economic prospects for years to come, if not permanently. We already know enough about the pandemic's…

Keeping trust in immunisation during the COVID-19 pandemic

At this crucial moment for immunisation, considering community perceptions of vaccination has never been more important.

Five ways that scientists are ensuring the safety of COVID-19 vaccines

As companies race to develop COVID-19 vaccines, some development processes have been run in parallel to stop the pandemic as quickly as possible. Yet safety remains paramount; now that we are on the brink of rolling out some of the vaccines that…

How small clinical trial sample sizes can offer important findings

Scientists have been racing to develop COVID-19 vaccines that could reach millions, yet many of the studies have surprisingly small sample sizes drawn from the clinical trials. Does that matter?

Why an antidepressant could be used to treat COVID-19

Fluvoxamine has shown positive results in early trials.

The peril of ignoring childhood pneumonia in the age of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic now threatens global progress on preventing and treating childhood pneumonia, potentially reversing decades of health gains for the world’s most vulnerable children.

COVID-19 could undermine progress towards reducing infant mortality

Over the past three decades, improvements to maternal and newborn health have led to many more infants surviving beyond the first 28 days of life. But disruptions to health services caused by the COVID-19 pandemic may now be undoing years of hard…

Four reasons why we need multiple vaccines for Covid-19

Having a range of Covid-19 vaccines available for people to use around the world will be essential to bringing the pandemic under control. Here’s why.

10 things you should know about vaccine candidates

Despite the benefit of all the recommended public health measures in preventing transmission, vaccines still provide us with the best chance of our lives returning to some semblance of normality.

Equal, rapid access to COVID-19 vaccines won’t just save lives; it will save money

Research suggests that the quickest way to end the pandemic and limit the economic damage is for all countries to benefit from a coordinated global vaccine deal.

IOM and Gavi working together to give the most vulnerable ‘a good start’ in South Sudan

This week Gavi signed a historic agreement with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to improve immunisation coverage for migrants and forcibly displaced persons around the world. IOM’s South Sudan Communications Officer, Liatile…

Ensuring safety of COVID-19 vaccines

CEPI spoke with vaccine safety expert, Dr Robert Chen, Science Director of The Brighton Collaboration – the largest global organisation of scientific experts on vaccine safety – about how vaccine safety is assessed in clinical trials and how…

Anxiety, depression and insomnia: the impact of COVID-19 on mental health

COVID-19 patients are at an increased risk of being diagnosed with anxiety, depression or insomnia. Here’s a closer look at how the SARS-CoV-2 virus can impact your mental health.

Why the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine is now a global game changer

The global pandemic is far from over, but this latest in a series of welcome announcements brings renewed hope even if several hurdles remain.

Gavi and IOM join forces to improve immunisation coverage for migrants

Memorandum of understanding signed today will strengthen collaboration on vaccination efforts and related health services for migrants and forcibly displaced persons across the world

The longest mile in the COVID-19 vaccine cold chain

Promises of COVID-19 vaccine doses for developing countries will face challenges along the crucial cold chain.

COVID-19 ‘Vaccine for the World’ shows up to 90% efficacy

Interim analysis of the AstraZeneca/Oxford COVID-19 vaccine candidate – to which Gavi has secured access – suggests an efficacy of 62– 90%. Crucially, the vaccine can be administered and distributed using existing health care and supply chain…

Oxford vaccine results are in: here's how to ensure it is used

The Oxford vaccine – developed in partnership with AstraZeneca – stops 70% of people developing COVID symptoms, and, depending on how the doses are given, may even protect up to 90% of people.

Resumed immunization campaigns are critical to preventing COVID-19 as well as polio

Local adaptation and innovation has allowed the resumption of polio immunization campaigns – and points the way to more effective, community-based delivery of a whole range of basic health services.

COVID-19 antibody levels could fall faster in men than women

New research suggesting that antibodies reduce faster in men compared with women could have implications for vaccine development.

A pandemic we can prevent

Although antimicrobial resistance has been a known and growing problem for decades, only one new class of antibiotics has been discovered since 1984. Tackling AMR requires a fundamental change in how new antibiotics are valued, and government…

Natural immunity to COVID-19 may be long-lasting

Until now, we didn’t know how long immunity after infection with COVID-19 would last – new research suggests it could be long-lasting.

Coronavirus vaccine results are pouring in, and it's good news for older people

Early results from COVID-19 vaccine trials are starting to emerge, and scientists have received the first reports from three independent studies with optimism because protection against the coronavirus is possible.

What is lateral flow testing and how could it be deployed against coronavirus?

Unlike PCR tests, which involve complex laboratory equipment and highly trained staff, lateral flow tests can be processed on the spot and return a result far quicker. But how exactly do they work, and could they really make a difference to the…

Rediscovering the public health origins of WASH

As COVID-19 continues to surge over the globe, it forces us to reckon with the fact that true global health equity – universal access to primary healthcare – is an unfinished task that we pay for at our collective expense. Water, sanitation…

Moderna follows Pfizer with exciting vaccine news – how to read these dramatic developments

It is very exciting to hear another positive story about vaccine trial results – a good vaccine is the most likely way of ending the pandemic.

What is the difference between efficacy and effectiveness?

The two terms used to describe how well a drug or vaccine works are often used interchangeably, but they are not actually the same thing – here’s why.

The Human Cost of COVID-19: Eugene

Vienna, Austria – In this final story in the World Health Organization series exploring the human cost of the COVID-19 pandemic, Eugene, a care-home nurse in Austria, shares the story of how he survived coronavirus.

Volunteers take lead on contact tracing in hard-to-reach communities

As COVID-19 has overwhelmed the medical system, a group of volunteers in Nigeria is undertaking the task of slowing the disease’s spread within communities.

Vaccine roll-out is still months away – how can we avoid more lockdowns in the meantime?

The main way the virus is thought to spread is through respiratory droplets and fomites (contaminated objects or materials such as clothes, furniture and door handles). With this mode of spread, most infections take place through close contact,…

Video: How Kenya is prioritising routine immunisation services during the COVID-19 pandemic 

The Ministry of Health and UNICEF Kenya, with support from Gavi, are working to ensure that routine health services, such as immunisation, continue during the pandemic. Watch their video to learn more.

5 ways COVID-19 is exacerbating global poverty

COVID-19 has presented many new social and economic challenges, and is exacerbating already existing ones. One such challenge is global poverty. Right now over 700 million people live in extreme poverty worldwide, which is defined as living on…

The Human Cost of COVID-19: Gracia

In this third story in the World Health Organization series exploring the human cost of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gracia, a junior high school student in West Papua, learns life skills for the future.

COVAX Facility governance explained

How will the COVAX Facility ensure equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines is indeed equitable? By Aurélia Nguyen, Managing Director, Office of the COVAX Facility

COVAX Facility convenes first meeting of COVAX AMC engagement group

The COVAX AMC Engagement Group, composed of Gavi COVAX AMC participants, donors, and other stakeholders, forms a key component of Facility governance.

'Back to normal by spring': are we expecting too much from the first COVID-19 vaccines?

Pfizer’s update certainly is fantastic news. A COVID-19 vaccine could well be approved and ready for use in the next few months. But whether that means we can all get back to normal life by early 2021 is less certain.

The Human Cost of COVID-19: Shukria

In this second story in the World Health Organization series exploring the human cost of the COVID-19 pandemic, Shukria, a volunteer, talks about how she helps her community with providing masks and awareness messages about COVID-19.

Over US$ 2 billion raised to support equitable access to COVID vaccines with additional US$ 5 billion needed in 2021

The European Commission, France, Spain, The Republic of Korea and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation pledge US$ 360 million to Gavi’s COVID-19 Vaccines Advance Market Commitment (COVAX AMC)

A smart label on vaccine vials will be vital for safely rolling out future COVID-19 vaccines

Interim results suggesting that Pfizer/BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine provides more than a 90% efficacy, offers hope that immunisation can be effective against COVID-19. But the need to store this vaccine at “ultra cold” temperatures could pose…

Until a coronavirus vaccine is ready, pneumonia vaccines may reduce deaths from COVID-19

The yearly influenza season threatens to make the COVID-19 pandemic doubly deadly, but I believe that this isn’t inevitable.

The Human Cost of COVID-19: Nombasa

In the first of a World Health Organization series exploring the human cost of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nombasa, a frontline healthworker, makes an urgent appeal to governments and global health partners.

Six in ten children are immune to the COVID-19 virus despite never being infected by it

Immunity triggered by exposure to the coronaviruses that cause the common cold could protect people, especially children, against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Adverse events following immunisation: what are they, and when are they cause for concern?

A successful vaccine produces the best possible immune response, whilst keeping side effects to a minimum. When adverse events following immunisation (AEFIs) do occur, it is important that they are reported, especially if they are serious, even…

Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine may be over 90% efficacious, so what happens next?

An interim analysis of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine candidate suggests is more efficacious than many had dared to expect. The announcement is a welcome indication that a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine might be within reach, but there are…

Why we will always need vaccinations

Vaccination programmes have prevented millions of deaths worldwide, but their continued success relies on our continued participation.

Do mutations of COVID-19 virus in mink pose a threat to people?

With Denmark culling its entire farmed mink population following discovery of a mutated form of SARS-CoV2, are we at risk of further complications and diseases from animal-human transmission?

Coronavirus: believing in conspiracies goes hand in hand with vaccine hesitancy

While developing an effective vaccine probably won’t bring an immediate end to the pandemic, it’s clear that things can’t begin to return to normal without one. Anything that reduces a future vaccine’s effectiveness will be a problem. This…

Come together: how the fight to end polio can help the COVID-19 recovery

The world is anxiously awaiting the development of a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. Nearly 60 years ago, the world was also waiting in eager anticipation of a publicly available vaccine to stop a disease that was ravaging communities around…

Why understanding superspreaders could be one key way of controlling the COVID-19 pandemic

Superspreading events, where one person infects tens of others, appear to be playing an increasingly significant role in the spread of COVID-19. So what have we learned about these events and how can we stop them from fuelling the pandemic?

Gavi COVAX AMC: a shot in the arm for international cooperation

Never has the development of vaccines been so widely anticipated as for COVID-19, and arguably never has so much been at stake. Because without COVID-19 vaccines, we cannot bring this crisis to a swift end.

How does COVID-19 trigger a loss of smell and other olfactory disorders?

Anosmia is the medical term for a sudden loss of smell and has been associated with COVID-19. Here’s a closer look at the olfactory dysfunctions linked to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

How deliberately infecting volunteers with COVID-19 could help accelerate vaccine development

Josh Morrison, Co-founder and Executive Director of 1Day Sooner, an organisation that advocates on behalf of challenge trial volunteers, explains why.

Equitable COVID-19 vaccine distribution will lead to the biggest reduction in deaths

Mathematical modelling suggests that if wealthy countries stockpile COVID-19 vaccines, we will see nearly twice as many deaths than if vaccines were shared equally across the globe.

COVAX Facility convenes first meeting of COVAX Shareholders Council

The COVAX Shareholders Council, composed of all self-financing participants, forms a key component of Facility governance.

We need Covid-19 treatments as well as vaccines – and they have to work for everyone

Effective treatments that are accessible to everyone who needs them have to be part of the solution to the coronavirus pandemic – here's why.

What impact does malnutrition have on the effectiveness of vaccination?

Malnutrition can affect the immune system and the quality of immune response to vaccinations, with potential implications for low-income countries where COVID-19 is already fuelling a "hunger pandemic" in the most vulnerable people.

COVAX welcomes appointment of civil society representatives

As part of the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, COVAX – the vaccines pillar of the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator, co-led by Gavi, CEPI, and the WHO – welcomes the appointment of civil society organisation representatives to…

Overcoming the COVID-19 Disruption to Essential Health Services

It is clear that COVID-19 will persist much longer than anticipated. If countries do not take action soon to ensure the continuity of essential health services during the pandemic, the future death toll from communicable and noncommunicable…

How COVID-19 may have increased dengue infections in Thailand and Singapore

Spending less time in the workplace usually results in lower rates of infectious disease, but workplace closures in Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific may be increasing exposure to the mosquitoes that transmit dengue virus.

How geospatial technology can help to zero in on zero-dose children

Combining geographical information on populations, locations of health care sites, and the movement of vaccinators can offer insights into how efficient and equitable vaccination coverage is, and has great potential to improve immunisation…

Digitizing vaccine cold chain, key to post-pandemic immunization in Indonesia

For some vaccinators in the vast archipelagic nation of Indonesia, a day in their professional life may involve trekking through deep tropical valleys and jungles or crossing the open waters on rickety boats to isolated islands.

Why protecting, promoting essential services for women and children is now more critical than ever

Now, COVID-19 is unleashing substantial health, social and economic impacts in every corner of the globe. But it is the poorest countries and the most vulnerable communities around the world that stand to suffer the most from this protracted…

CEPI expands global manufacturing network, reserving manufacturing capacity for more than 1 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines

CEPI’s strategic investments in vaccine manufacturing at facilities around the world will support the COVAX goal to produce 2 billion doses of safe and effective vaccine by the end of 2021.

Let’s flatten the infodemic curve

We are all being exposed to a huge amount of COVID-19 information on a daily basis, and not all of it is reliable. Here are some tips for telling the difference and stopping the spread of misinformation.

Ghana launches polio campaigns despite the challenges of COVID-19

In the face of the challenges posed by the pandemic, Ghana is working to protect 4.5 million at-risk children from polio through the launch of two polio vaccination campaigns. Here’s a closer look at those efforts for World Polio Day.

Post-COVID Capitalism

The COVID-19 pandemic has shone a spotlight on social, economic, and environmental risks that have been building for the past half-century of neoliberalism. Even amid the deep uncertainties of today's global situation, one thing is clear: it is…

We need a global response to the COVID-19 pandemic

President of Niger H.E. Issoufou Mahamadou talks about the importance of routine immunisation and Gavi support in Niger, and the need for ensuring universal access to COVID-19 vaccines through the COVAX Facility.

How Gavi, UNICEF and WHO supported Timor-Leste’s successful COVID-19 response strategy

Timor Leste has kept COVID-19 infections to a minimum, and thanks to effective collaboration has managed to successfully reverse the initial declines seen in immunisation coverage and health service delivery.

Q&A with Dr Odete

Timor-Leste’s Director-General of Health Services for the Ministry of Health discusses the unique challenges of tackling COVID-19 in Timor-Leste and how have they been addressed.

Why we need a “portfolio approach” to COVID-19 vaccine development

Most vaccine candidates in early development fail: this is the stark reality of vaccine development.

Children who get zero vaccines deserve 100% of our attention

Over 50% more children were immunised in Gavi countries in 2019 than in 2000, yet 10.6 million children continue to miss out entirely on basic vaccinations. Here’s why reaching these children and setting them on the pathway to full immunisation…

Once we have effective Covid-19 treatments, it shouldn’t only be the rich who benefit

We need a range of treatments to make Covid-19 preventable and treatable. Jeremy Farrar describes recent progress made by research and why more investment is needed.

Brazil city ‘might have reached herd immunity'

Herd immunity threshold may have been reached in Amazonas capital, Manaus, but experts warn that herd immunity is not the end of the pandemic.

Why some people might be immune to certain COVID-19 vaccines

Vaccines based on the common cold virus are at the forefront of the COVID-19 vaccine race, but they may be less effective in people who have previously been infected by these common pathogens. So how could we overcome this challenge?

Why handwashing with soap is the most effective way to stop viruses

Global Handwashing Day and the ongoing spread of COVID-19 is a timely reminder about the importance of handwashing with soap as an effective and affordable way to stay healthy.

COVID-19 as an awakening for hand hygiene access

Globally 3 billion people lack hand hygiene facilities at home and two out of five health care facilities lack hand hygiene at points of care. As the pandemic unfolded around the world, hand sanitizer and handwashing stations became as in-demand…

Taking the long view on vaccine markets

Gavi’s long-term approach to developing healthy markets for critical vaccines has led to greater stability and security, providing countries with the confidence that supplies will be available to meet their demand.

2019 was a landmark year for countries co-financing their vaccine programmes

In 2019, a higher share of Gavi-supported countries than ever before met their co-financing obligations on time, thanks to strong political commitment.

How “data poverty” could worsen health inequalities during the pandemic and beyond

Big data has the potential to change society for the better, but this opportunity is being undermined by a failure to collect data from across societies and make it publicly available.

Strong systems for strong vaccine coverage

In 2019, countries delivered more than 230 million routine vaccinations, a record number, supported by unprecedented levels of health system funding from Gavi to support immunisation and protect the most vulnerable children. Here is what Gavi did…

What is the world like for girls today?

On International Day of the Girl Child, Gavi’s Megan Holloway looks at how COVID-19 is impacting the lives of girls.

A Moment of Truth in the Pandemic

As the most ambitious pandemic-response initiative ever conceived, the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access Facility is the best chance the world has to bring the pandemic to an end. But to succeed, COVAX requires broad international buy-in, based on…

The World Food Programme wins 2020 Nobel Peace Prize amidst ‘hunger pandemic’ triggered by COVID-19

These global efforts are increasingly urgent as the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to put millions of lives at risk from famine and malnutrition.

Will silent reinfections drive the spread of COVID?

People who have had COVID-19 can develop an immune response that normally protects people from recurrent infection. But now that reinfections of COVID-19 have been recorded, what does that mean for our ability to fight the virus?

Immunization continues amid COVID-19

European Commission Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) humanitarian air bridge made it possible.

Japan pledges US$ 130 million to support global access to COVID-19 vaccines

Japanese Government pledges US$ 130 million in funding to the Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC), bringing the total raised to roughly US$ 1.8 billion.

Protecting community health workers means protecting communities in the DRC

Preventing and controlling infectious disease is possible with dedication of health workers, multi-stakeholder collaboration and equitable access to vaccines. Africa’s wild polio-free certification, which took decades of collaborative effort, is…

What are monoclonal antibodies – and can they treat Covid-19?

For more than 30 years, monoclonal antibodies have transformed the way we treat many diseases. Researchers think they are also one of the most promising treatments for Covid-19. Here's why.

How emergency use authorisations could accelerate access to COVID-19 vaccines

Emergency use procedures are designed to make potentially life-saving medical products available as quickly as possible during health emergencies. A record number have been granted since the arrival of COVID-19 pandemic, but what does this mean…

AVADAR: How digital health fast-tracked Nigeria’s drive to eradicate polio

Polio, a contagious disease caused by the poliomyelitis virus is transmitted primarily when stool from someone infected contaminates foods, drinks or water sources. It invades the nervous system and could, in a matter of hours, lead to complete…

Why I volunteered for a COVID-19 vaccine trial

Vaccines are designed to trigger an immune response to pathogens we’ve never encountered before. But how does it feel to be one of the first humans to encounter a new vaccine? British communications consultant Heather Macdonald-Tait explains what…

Countries pledge nearly US$ 1 billion to support equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines

The United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Italy and Sweden pledge approximately US$ 960 million to Gavi’s COVID-19 Vaccines Advance Market Commitment (COVAX AMC)

How COVID-19 is heightening the economic risks in Gavi-supported countries

In a matter of months, the COVID-19 pandemic has devastated the global economy. Now a new study looks at how this economic shock is impacting sovereign debt levels of Gavi-supported countries.

Q&A with Professor Salim Karim

Africa has not been as hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic as predicted. Here, we talk to Professor Salim Abdool Karim, the head of South Africa's Ministerial Advisory Committee on COVID-19 to find out why and what the future might hold.

Understanding urban challenges in Uganda

In the first of this series, we look at the highlights of an evaluation to determine the potential barriers to immunisation caused by the increase in urbanisation.

Why the world is at risk without immunisation

Vaccines save lives by protecting children and adults from diseases. COVID-19 pandemic is a clear example of what a world without vaccines could look like. Governments should ensure that delivery of essential services such as vaccines remains a…

How good quality data is vital to saving lives

Throughout the 2016–2020 strategic period, the Vaccine Alliance has worked with countries to improve data quality. From GIS to SMS, new tech and tools aim to reach more people with life-saving immunisation.

How Gavi’s co-financing model works

To bring countries on a trajectory towards financial sustainability, and to empower them to take ownership
of their vaccination programmes, Gavi has pioneered an approach to co-financing and transition.

Gavi to provide US$ 150 million to support low- and middle-income countries’ readiness to deliver COVID-19 vaccines

The Gavi Board has approved the provision of US$ 150 million in initial funding to jumpstart support COVAX AMC-eligible countries’ readiness to deliver COVID-19 vaccines, in the form of planning, technical assistance and cold chain equipment

A Nurse in Uganda is a Trusted Messenger of Hope

Her own healthy baby son is how Ugandan nurse Maureen Wandawa demonstrates the benefits of immunization. Working together to build confidence in, and access to, vaccines for all who need them is one way we can #UniteforHealth to keep us all safer…

Download for life: a mobile app to improve vaccine coverage in Côte d’Ivoire

Gavi's partnership with telecoms provider Orange and the Ministry of Health overcomes barriers to childhood immunisation through tailored, tested technology.

From equality to global poverty: how Covid-19 is affecting societies and economies

The Covid-19 pandemic is a social and an economic crisis just as much as it is a health crisis – its repercussions, severe and far-reaching, are being felt across the world.

More than one million people have died of COVID-19

The true number could be much higher, and two million could die before we get a vaccine, says the World Health Organization.

How do vaccine challenge trials ensure the benefits outweigh the risks?

The UK is expected to host the world’s first COVID-19 human “challenge” trials, which will involve deliberately infecting healthy volunteers with coronavirus to assess the effectiveness of experimental vaccines. So far, around 2,000 potential…

Recovering Better through Gender Equity

Gender equality must be at the heart of not only our response, but our attempts to restructure systems to be fairer and more equal to recover better.

Global investors must support pharma solidarity and collaboration in the response to COVID-19

The prospect of having the first supplies of at least a few effective COVID-19 medicines and vaccines by the end of 2020 is a key driver of recent market optimism.

What do vaccines do?

The benefits of immunisation extend beyond preventing childhood deaths. Vaccines are also a vital tool in the fights against cancer, outbreaks and antimicrobial resistance.

What does COVID-19 mean for this year’s flu season?

Every winter, hundreds of thousands become infected with seasonal influenza, which kills between 290,000 and 650,000 people worldwide each year. But this year, we have another respiratory illness to contend with: COVID-19. So, what does this mean…

New collaboration makes further 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine available to low- and middle-income countries

Collaboration among the Serum Institute of India (SII), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will accelerate manufacturing and delivery of up to an additional 100 million doses of future vaccines, if proven to be…

The world needs Gavi now more than ever

When I join Gavi in January, it will be at a time when it is contemplating the most ambitious period in its history.

The last mile of polio eradication and the vaccination challenges it brings

We are close to a polio-free world, yet cases of vaccine-derived disease are challenging the eradication effort.

Classroom precautions during COVID-19

Tips for teachers to protect themselves and their students.

How market shaping works

The goal of our market shaping work is to help ensure vaccine markets work better for lower-income countries. We want the maximum number of people to receive the life-saving and health-protecting benefits of immunisation.

Experimental approaches to address post-transition risks

After transitioning out of Gavi support in 2017, the Republic of Moldova is mobilising champions and advocates to strengthen vaccine confidence – which is crucial to the success and sustainability of immunisation programmes.

Keep focus on emerging infections, Disease X: analysts

Biggest funders of emerging infectious diseases R&D are also biggest recipients. Ebola and Zika experienced R&D spike in wake of epidemics. US is losing global leadership role in the field.

How to keep vaccine production going during a pandemic?

Vaccine manufacturers have worked hard to adapt to a new normal of keeping supplies for immunisation programmes going in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Typhoid: immunising against antimicrobial resistance

Typhoid fever is increasingly resistant to the main antibiotics used to treat it. Gavi is supporting a new vaccine to help control this deadly disease – and fight antimicrobial resistance.

Which COVID-19 test is most relevant to me?

At the beginning of the pandemic there was a mad scramble to develop a test which would accurately diagnose COVID-19 infection. Now, six months in, hundreds of testsare available – but how do they differ, and which test is the…

Gavi at UNGA: Global solidarity to defeat COVID-19 and create a better world for all

September 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This year, the focus of the high-level General Debate is the importance of effective multilateralism.

What does the pausing of the AstraZeneca trial mean for other COVID-19 vaccines?

Gavi’s Derrick Sim, Director of Vaccine Supply and Demand, discusses why it is sometimes important to halt clinical trials.

Leaders in the fight against infectious diseases

Snapshots from DRC, India and Zambia illustrate country ownership and progress in the fights against Ebola, polio and HPV.

10 reasons why pandemic fatigue could threaten global health in 2021

Being in a constant state of high alert and uncertainty is exhausting yet health officials warn that we can’t let our guard down yet and resisting living with the ‘new normal’ could threaten our health.

Coronavirus vaccine: why it’s important to know what’s in the placebo

Some researchers conducting clinical trials on a COVID-19 vaccine have not revealed to the public what the placebo contains, but they should.

How health systems work and why they matter

Supporting health systems is essential for Gavi’s work to improve immunisation coverage and equity.

Could COVID-19 be fuelling drug resistance?

We need to understand the impact of Covid-19 on wider health issues to shape better public health responses and limit long-term consequences. Drug resistance is one of these, Gemma Buckland-Merrett explains.

How can we make fair and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines a reality?

How will COVAX ensure that COVID-19 vaccine doses reach all countries at the same time, and protect those people that need it the most?

Resilience and the risks to global health security

When disaster strikes a country, the impact on people’s health can be immense and long-lasting. As the effects of climate change are felt around the world through rising temperatures and sea levels, natural disasters are increasingly frequent and…

Rwanda: Changing perceptions

When I was 12, I received the HPV vaccine just like most girls my age in Rwanda. The day after we got the first dose, my classmates started spreading rumours about the vaccine that they had heard from their families and communities.

Why vaccines?

Vaccines are the best tools yet invented to prevent child deaths and protect people’s health. Gavi funding for access to vaccines has protected a generation of children growing up in lower-income countries. Gavi funds twin approaches to…

There’s more than one way for a COVID-19 vaccine to end this pandemic

Effective vaccines prevent individuals from developing disease, but some also stop people transmitting the pathogens that cause them. What role will they have to play in ending the COVID-19 pandemic?

The three Vs needed to end this pandemic

While scientific and vaccine manufacturing community make huge strides in the race towards that goal, it is important to remember that vaccines are only one of three Vs needed to beat this coronavirus.

The role of social mobilisers during COVID-19

How one social mobiliser in South Sudan has managed to contribute to health security in her region.

Our shared future is not a choice

2020 was already going to be a monumental year — the beginning of the 10-year countdown for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Mapping vaccine confidence worldwide

Anecdotes of how people feel about vaccines are plenty, but there have been few attempts to gather robust global data. This five-year study reviewed survey responses from over a quarter of a million people around the world on how they felt about…

A record-breaking year for childhood immunisation

Gavi’s CEO provides an overview of its flagship publication, launched today.

Malawi: Reaching girls earlier

In Malawi, primary school drop-out rates are among the highest in Africa. To try and guarantee high coverage, the HPV vaccine is administered to 9-years-old girls.

Why is no one safe until everyone is safe during a pandemic?

No one is safe until everyone is safe. This phrase has become a slogan for global health figures but what does it mean in the worldwide COVID-19 response?

COVID-19 vaccines: what happens after clinical trials

If a COVID-19 vaccine is to reach the global public sometime next year, it will be the result of one of the fastest developments and rollouts of a vaccine against a new disease ever. In contrast, the RTS,S malaria vaccine, which is currently…

How Ethiopia is maintaining health services during a pandemic?

Ethiopia has overtaken Nigeria to become the Gavi-eligible African country most affected by COVID-19. Over the past week, the number of confirmed cases in Ethiopia has grown exponentially. Despite the pandemic, immunisation activities – both…

COVID vaccine is being speeded up but urgency cannot be at expense of safety, says Dr Seth Berkley

As CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance funded largely by Bill Gates, Dr Seth Berkley has helped vaccinate almost half the world’s children from fatal and debilitating diseases. His current baby is the COVAX Facility to help develop, manufacture and…

Are vaccines a global public good?

As COVID-19 vaccines have a critical role to play in ending this pandemic crisis, many experts have described them as a global public good. But what exactly does that mean?

Supply chains: The lifeline for getting PPE to community health workers

You may have heard the saying, “no products, no programs,” but for those who work in public health during COVID-19, the saying has become “no PPE, no programs.” And for community health workers (CHWs) who play a vital role in providing health…

How vaccination can reduce sepsis and save millions of lives

Many of the infections that can lead to sepsis are becoming resistant to antibiotics, which means that preventing them by vaccination is critical.

Ethiopia Reaching girls at scale

Helping rural and urban girls across Ethiopia understand cervical cancer and HPV.

Different types of immunity and why they matter to COVID-19

Antibodies are one route to immunity against disease, but T cells and innate immunity also play a crucial role in protecting us. So, how could these different types of immunity be mobilised against COVID-19

How Somalia is resuming vaccination campaigns despite COVID-19

More than 3,000 health workers are conducting a three-day health campaign from 30 August to 1 September 2020 to ensure that around 400,000 children aged under five receive measles and polio vaccines, as well as vitamin A and deworming tablets, at…

COVAX explained

To end this global health crisis we don’t just need COVID-19 vaccines, we also need to ensure that everyone in the world has access to them.

Who should we vaccinate first?

When COVID-19 vaccines become available demand is likely to outstrip supply, at least initially. So, who should be first in line?

Modelling the Manufacturing Process for COVID-19 Vaccines: Our Approach

Researchers across the world are working flat out to develop and manufacture a vaccine for COVID-19 that can end what has been the worst pandemic in at least a century.

How to measure the success of a COVID-19 vaccine?

Dr Melanie Saville, CEPI’s Director of Vaccine Development, discusses what a successful vaccine against COVID-19 would involve, some of the unknowns and the challenges that vaccine developers are wrestling with, and what makes CEPI’s approach…

How the Democratic Republic of the Congo overcame the world’s worst measles outbreak amid the COVID-19 pandemic

Before the pandemic began, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was already facing a severe measles outbreak which started at the end of 2018. Despite huge challenges caused by COVID-19 and other diseases, the largest measles outbreak in…

Q&A with Helen Rees

How the African Region is Celebrating the End of Wild Polio while cVDPV Outbreaks Continue

Is it possible to get COVID-19 more than once?

What do the first confirmed cases of reinfection with COVID-19 mean for the rest of us and future of this pandemic?

Australia commits AU$ 80 million to guarantee access to COVID-19 vaccines for all

The funding will support the Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC), which aims to secure doses of COVID-19 vaccines for 92 low- and middle-income countries and economies at the same time as wealthier nations

DRC: The great lengths that polio vaccinators go to reach every last child

By foot, boat and bicycle, thousands of volunteer vaccinators in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) go to extraordinary efforts, sometimes at personal risk, to help eradicate polio.

As global health players pivot to COVID-19 responses, we need coordinated, real-time, formative evaluations

An estimated $15.9 trillion has been mobilised to respond to the health and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of this has gone to multilateral and bilateral funders to support low- and middle-income countries’ (LMIC) governments.

Borno: Africa’s Last Wild Poliovirus Frontier

When Aisha took her son Busami Modu to his grandmother’s house in Kuya, a village in Borno state, Nigeria, she waved goodbye to a healthy, happy little boy. A “beauty to behold,” she recalls. The next time she saw him, he was paralysed and unable…

Can vaccine clinical trials be sped up safely for COVID-19?

One of the most time-consuming parts of vaccine research and development is the testing of a vaccine. How does this work, and how, in the context of COVID-19, are scientists trying to speed it up?

Exclusive: Survey shows over a third of the public think a COVID-19 vaccine will be available by the end of the year: are they right?

Data from global Ipsos survey shows 37% of those polled worldwide think it is likely a vaccine will be available by the end of the year. But is this optimism misplaced?

Call for applications: COVAX seeks civil society representatives to contribute to ensuring equitable global access to COVID-19 vaccines

CSOs will play a vital role in the development and implementation of the COVAX initiative as well as the deployment of any successful vaccine through COVAX.

How is Nigeria addressing the public health challenges due to COVID-19?

As one of the African countries most affected by COVID-19, Nigeria has faced significant economic and health impacts, including to routine immunisation, in the face of the pandemic.

What do diarrheal disease and COVID-19 have in common?

Diarrheal disease is the second leading infectious killer of children under five worldwide. Lessons learned from tackling this deadly disease could also help us recover from COVID-19 stronger than ever.

Somalia responds swiftly to measles outbreak in Jubaland State

A surveillance system in Somalia is providing real-time early warning disease alerts to help tackle health threats such as measles outbreaks and COVID-19 cases.

How has our urban world made pandemics more likely?

As more people have moved to cities, population density, human encroachment and increased global interconnectivity have contributed to the spread of infectious diseases.

How do the quarantine measures that have been implemented throughout history compare to the COVID-19 response?

COVID-19 has triggered lockdown measures for billions of people around the world. As many of us struggle to adapt to the ‘new normal’, we look at the origins of quarantine measures - and how they’ve been used to contain deadly outbreaks for…

How do vaccines actually work?

Vaccines prevent millions of deaths every year by harnessing the body’s immune system to create defences against future infection. But how exactly does this work?

Up to 100 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to be made available for low- and middle-income countries as early as 2021

New landmark collaboration between the Serum Institute of India (SII), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to accelerate manufacturing and delivery of up to 100 million doses of future safe and effective COVID-…

How is Pakistan maintaining routine immunisation despite the COVID-19 pandemic?

Despite disruption to routine immunisation in Gavi-eligible countries due to COVID-19, collaborative efforts between Alliance partners and governments have made it possible to partially resume immunisation sessions in countries such as…

How creative communication strategies are helping fight COVID-19 misinformation in DRC

The misinformation surrounding COVID-19 in the Democratic Repubic of the Congo isn’t new – public health officials have seen rumours and myths circulate with Ebola. Here’s how they are tackling them.

New evidence shows investments in vaccination produce even greater returns than previously thought

Analysis suggests that investments in vaccination programmes will result in US$ 0.8 trillion in returns over the next ten years.

Why COVID-19 means Gavi is supporting more countries than ever before

Since 2000, Gavi has been increasing equitable access to vaccines by working with the world’s poorest countries. Yet during a pandemic, more prosperous countries are also at risk of falling through the net. How will Gavi respond?

92 low- and middle-income economies eligible to get access to COVID-19 vaccines through Gavi COVAX AMC

Gavi Board agrees scope of COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC), which aims to secure doses of COVID-19 vaccines for 92 low- and middle-income countries and economies at the same time as wealthier nations.

You’ve got your antibody test result – but what does it mean?

If you test positive for COVID-19 antibodies, does that actually mean you’ve been infected?

Children missing out on routine vaccinations in Somalia amid COVID-19 fears

In the recent past, 25-year-old Zahra Mohamud* had visited the Hawadle maternal and child health centre in Hargeisa regularly to have her older son Ibrahim* vaccinated against the most common childhood diseases.

Gavi has helped lower-income nations narrow the vaccine coverage gap

Lower-income countries are seeing better vaccination coverage than they have had in decades, but the COVID-19 pandemic is threatening to hamper progress.

Now is the Time to Pave the Way for Equitable Vaccine Distribution 

When COVID-19 vaccines become available, one of the biggest challenges the global community will face is equitable distribution. This will be the single largest vaccine deployment in history.

Gavi helps immunise 65 million children in 2019, though COVID-19 puts progress under pressure

New analysis of WHO/UNICEF data by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, shows the gap in vaccine coverage between Gavi-supported lower-income countries and wealthier countries has shrunk to record lows

COVAX Facility country consultations conclude with participation from at least 136 countries

Briefings led by Gavi, CEPI and WHO over the past two weeks saw participation from at least 136 countries interested in joining a COVAX Facility aimed at guaranteeing equitable access to eventual COVID-19 vaccines.

How are Gavi-supported countries maintaining routine immunisation during the pandemic?

A spotlight on Ethiopia, India, the Solomon Islands and Zambia

Governments have had to act fast to not only protect their people against COVID-19 but also to ensure protective measures like vaccination against other infectious diseases…

Why the UK wants to recruit half a million people in a COVID-19 vaccine trial

The UK has just secured 90 million doses of future COVID-19 vaccines, and now it is trying to recruit volunteers for some of the biggest ever phase 3 trials to test potential vaccines.

Delivering life-saving vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic

Health workers are stopping at nothing to ensure immunizations for every child.

What happens if COVID-19 mutates?

Reports of a potentially more infectious form of the coronavirus have fed fears that a "mutant” version of the virus could arise. But what does mutation actually mean and is it really a cause for concern?

Should countries stop vaccinations to halt the spread of COVID-19?

It’s a devil’s choice governments have faced since the start of the pandemic, but new research could provide the answer.

Can the BCG vaccine protect against COVID-19?

While researchers racing to develop a COVID-19 vaccine, the potential of the BCG vaccine – used to prevent TB – to slow the pandemic has been hotly debated. New research suggesting that the BCG could prevent severe COVID-19 disease has made…

Could COVID-19 be airborne, and if so how do we protect ourselves?

Ever since the new coronavirus was identified, there has been a debate about whether it is airborne or not. Now, over 200 scientists from around the world have written to the World Health Organization urging it to consider the potential of COVID-…

The vaccines success story gives us hope for the future

As the world waits for a vaccine to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic, we look back to all that vaccines have achieved for humanity.

Q&A with Ola Rosling of Gapminder

The head of Gapminder, whose mission is to fight ignorance with a fact-based world view, talks with Gavi about data and COVID-19.

How Technology Helps Health Workers Deliver Essential Care in Developing Countries

Living Goods saves lives by supporting digitally empowered community health workers who deliver care

How do we know who is immune to COVID-19?

With surveys using antibody tests yielding disappointing results, there are growing concerns that fewer people may have already been infected with SARS-CoV-2 than was previously hoped. Yet antibodies are only part of our immune system’s response…

Accelerating access to routine immunisation in the time of COVID-19: What follows Gavi’s replenishment?

This article is a summary of an online conversation hosted by the Gavi CSO Constituency in partnership with ACTION, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, RESULTS UK & Save the Children.

How the COVID-19 lockdown is affecting routine immunisation

Routine immunisation has slowed in many Gavi-supported countries around the world. Here, researchers writing in The Lancet, including a Gavi scientist, look at the effect of lockdown on vaccination programmes in Karachi, Pakistan …

New private sector commitments to fund access to future COVID-19 vaccines announced at international pledging summit

Global technology company TransferWise and a donor which asked to remain anonymous made significant financial commitments to Gavi’s Advance Market Commitment for COVID-19 Vaccines (Gavi COVAX AMC)

30 June 2020: Overview of COVID-19 situation in Gavi-supported countries and Gavi’s response

Across Gavi-eligible countries, we have seen a consistent increase in cases since March 2020. Within the month of June alone, the number of cases has more than doubled, with 70 out of 73 Gavi-eligible countries reporting over 1 million confirmed…

How is the pandemic impacting one of the world’s largest refugee settlements?

As of 27 June 2020, there have been 513 tests carried out in the camps, with 49 confirmed cases.

First African trial of a COVID-19 vaccine

The first African clinical trial for a COVID-19 vaccine has started in South Africa, run by the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (Wits).

Global Citizen Mobilizes Over $1.5B in Cash Grants and $5.4B in Loans and Guarantees for a Total of $6.9B Pledged for COVID-19 Relief

'Global Goal: Unite for Our Future' mobilized over $6.9 billion to help the world’s most vulnerable.

Ebola is officially over in North Kivu and Ituri - what can we learn for COVID-19?

On 25 June, the outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo that has raged for more than 2 years is over. What does this mean for the country and what can it teach us about ending the COVID-19 pandemic?

Gavi Board calls for global access to COVID-19 vaccines

Gavi Board shows support for continued work on COVAX Facility: a global, coordinated mechanism designed to ensure rapid and equitable access to safe and efficacious COVID-19 vaccines to as broad a global population as possible

What is the COVAX pillar, why do we need it and how will it work?

With more than 200 COVID-19 vaccines already in development, why do we need the Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator Vaccine Pillar, or COVAX Pillar?

First-of-its-kind vaccine agreement helps end Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC

DRC government and WHO declare over the long-running Ebola outbreak in North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri provinces after more than 50 days without a case.

Why development aid transparency matters

At a time when economies are under pressure and government spending is under scrutiny, transparency and accountability within the development sector is more important than ever.

Gavi a top performer in leading transparency index

The Vaccine Alliance ranked in the highest ‘Very good’ category out of 47 international development organisations assessed in the 2020 Aid Transparency Index

Will we see a deadly second wave of COVID-19 later in the year?

Beijing, a city month’s ahead of Europe in COVID-19 terms, is now plunging back into lockdown. Many are concerned that this could be the first hint of a second wave. But is that likely and what would it look like?

Seven things countries have done right in the fight against COVID-19

There has been a huge variation in how countries have responded to COVID-19. Whilst some have imposed strict lockdown measures, others have avoided tight restrictions. But what works best?

16 June 2020: Overview of the COVID-19 situation in Gavi-supported countries and Gavi’s response

Seventy (of 73) Gavi-eligible countries have reported 824,259 confirmed cases and 20,641 deaths. The number of cases is increasing at an average rate of 4% from the previous day.

The long-term health effects of COVID-19

Even mild symptoms from the new coronavirus can last for weeks, or disappear only to rebound with renewed intensity, so what long-term effects does the disease have on our health?

How COVID-19 is reshaping priorities for both domestic resources and development assistance in the health sector

As the devastating consequences of the pandemic unfold across the world, COVID-19 is making long-lasting changes in global health

Is COVID-19 about to take off in Africa?

So far relatively few people in Africa have been infected by the novel coronavirus, with around 215,000 cases and 5,800 deaths in a population of 1.2 billion in the continent. But with lockdowns lifting, will cases soar?

Pneumonia vaccine price drops dramatically for lower-income countries thanks to the Gavi Pneumococcal AMC

New supply agreement between UNICEF and Serum Institute of India (SII) makes pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) available at US$2.00 per dose, a 43% reduction from the Gavi price at the start of the AMC

Vaccinations and COVID-19: What parents need to know

How to safely get routine vaccinations for your child during the COVID-19 pandemic

When it comes to COVID-19 vaccines how can governments back a winner?

With so many COVID-19 candidate vaccines in development, and with most of them likely to fail, what’s the best way for governments to ensure they back a winner and ensure there are enough doses for everyone?

Do lockdowns actually work?

A third of the world has been under some form of lockdown to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, but has it made any difference to the number of cases and deaths?

How digital tools are helping Pakistan monitor routine immunisation during the pandemic

A Gavi-supported digital immunisation registry is keeping track of vaccination activities to make sure children remain protected from other infectious diseases.

5 reasons why pandemics like COVID-19 are becoming more likely

SARS, Ebola, Zika, and now COVID-19. Five reasons why disease epidemics and even pandemics are becoming increasingly common.

How are Gavi's private sector partners stepping up to help fight COVID-19?

Despite the devastating economic impact this pandemic has had on businesses across the world, many are doing their part to bring this crisis to an end.

Could COVID-19 ever be eradicated?

Ideally, humanity would end COVID-19 by eradicating it so there are no new cases globally even in the absence of preventive measures. However, experience with other disease eradication programmes indicates that this will be very challenging, and…

How the world changed on 4 June

On 4 June, global leaders met at a virtual event to pledge support for Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and in the process made history by reaching new global health milestones

02 June 2020: Overview of the COVID-19 situation in Gavi-supported countries and Gavi’s response

Seventy (out of 73) Gavi-eligible countries have reported 475,401 confirmed cases and 12,464 deaths. Though this number still accounts for a small proportion, about 7%, of global COVID-19 cases, this share is expected to increase given the…

World leaders make historic commitments to provide equal access to vaccines for all

The Global Vaccine Summit, hosted by the UK, raises US$ 8.8 billion from 32 donor governments and 12 foundations, corporations and organisations to immunise 300m children and support the global fight against COVID-19.

Gavi launches innovative financing mechanism for access to COVID-19 vaccines

Gavi Advance Market Commitment for COVID-19 Vaccines (Gavi Covax AMC) launched at Global Vaccine Summit 2020 draws strong support, early commitments from global leaders.

Supporting Gavi now to build a better future

We’ve all seen the shocking projections: at least 80 million children under one are at risk of developing diseases like measles, diphtheria, and polio due to disruptions in routine immunization services because of COVID-19.

Gavi provides funding to support the pandemic response in Myanmar

As one of the poorest low-income countries in South East Asia, Myanmar faces many barriers to implementing a strong and effective response to COVID-19. Gavi has now allocated over US$ 8.8 million to help ensure that Myanmar is better able to…

How physical distancing, masks and eye protection reduces the spread of COVID-19

In the absence of a vaccine or treatment against the new coronavirus, measures to control its spread rely on avoiding contact with people who we are not sharing a house with. This study shows the varying effects of such preventive measures.

When will it be safe to hug people again?

The physical distancing necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19 can be emotionally distressing, but since the virus is unlikely to disappear soon, when will life regain a semblance of normality?

Q&A with Keller C. Rinaudo, CEO and Co-Founder of Zipline

Zipline is a California-based automated logistics company that uses autonomous drones to make on-demand, emergency deliveries of high priority products, including emergency and routine vaccines and other health products.

Why is the Global Vaccine Summit so important?

The pandemic will only strengthen our commitment to vaccinate vulnerable communities. On 4 June 2020 Gavi will hold its third donor pledging conference online with the aim to raise vital funds for the next five years.

How does COVID-19 compare to past pandemics?

The COVID-19 pandemic is most often compared to the H1N1 influenza pandemic of 1918, or Spanish flu, even though there have been three other major pandemics since then. So how does this coronavirus pandemic compare to those?

Immunisation and COVID-19 at the 73rd World Health Assembly

Equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines was a major priority for world leaders attending the virtual meeting

Why are BAME groups experiencing high rates of death from COVID-19?

Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities in Europe and the USA are overrepresented in COVID-19 deaths. In the bid to slow and, ultimately, stop the spread of COVID-19 it is vital to understand the reasons why, in order to adequately…

Vaccines for the happy few = health for none

Health is not just a human right, it is a prerequisite for development. Through its advocacy programme Global Health, Global Access, Cordaid continually stresses the importance of Health for All.

COVID-19’s collateral damage could devastate low- and middle-income countries

While the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths stays relatively low across Africa, Asia and Latin America compared with the rest of the world, the economic and social consequences are likely to reverberate for decades to come.

Could COVID-19 accelerate the digitisation of vaccine records?

The COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting vaccination programmes across the world, but this could provide an opportunity to hasten the move to digital record-keeping systems.

What is COVID-19’s ‘R number’ and why does it matter?

Altering the ease with which the new coronavirus spreads in the population is critical to controlling the pandemic. The number of people infected by any single case - the R number – will be key. If the virus is able to infect more than one person…

We are working hard to ensure that immunization services continue to be available for every child

There is no fundamental reason to stop immunization in any situation.

19 May 2020: Overview of the COVID-19 situation in Gavi-supported countries and Gavi’s response

Seventy (out of 73) Gavi-eligible countries have reported 257,996 confirmed cases and 7,547 deaths. These 70 countries account for a small proportion, about 5%, of global COVID-19 cases and 2% of global deaths.

Here are four ways Vietnam has managed to control COVID-19

Vietnam became one of the first countries to report a COVID-19 infection and the first to report human-to-human transmission outside of China. One hundred days later, just 270 cases had been confirmed in the country, with no deaths.

How quickly can we get a COVID-19 vaccine?

It is clear that the search for COVID-19 vaccines is being fast-tracked like never before. In just a few months, we now have over 100 vaccine candidates in development, ten of which are being tested in clinical trials.

At least 80 million children at risk of disease as COVID-19 disrupts vaccination efforts, warn Gavi, WHO and UNICEF

Agencies call for joint effort to safely deliver routine immunization and proceed with vaccination campaigns against deadly vaccine-preventable diseases.

Is COVID-19 here to stay?

Experts are warning that COVID-19 could become an endemic disease. What does this mean and how will it impact our response?

How do you keep pregnant women safe during a pandemic?

Pregnant women can be more exposed to risk during outbreaks. With 200 million pregnant women in the world, is the global pandemic response adequate to protect them, and not just from the coronavirus?

Rwanda’s efforts to strengthen its health system paying off in midst of COVID-19 pandemic

The country has made strategic investments including supply chain strengthening and technological innovation, all of which have allowed critical immunisation activities to continue during and beyond the quarantine.

Is air travel risky in the age of COVID-19?

Does air travel increase your chances of getting becoming infected by the novel coronavirus and contracting COVID-19?

What is contact tracing, how could it reduce the spread of COVID-19, and how could it affect me?

Controlling the pandemic demands a multi-pronged approach with other key methods like contact tracing to help stop the chain of transmission.

Q&A with Jonathan Stambolis, CEO of Zenysis Technologies

Zenysis is an advanced analytics software company. Their platform helps countries harness the life-saving power of data to improve the delivery of essential health services, like childhood vaccination, and to fight infectious disease outbreaks.…

The future with COVID-19: three potential scenarios

What our lives will look in the short to medium term future is uncertain, but what does seem clear is we won’t return to a pre-COVID-19 life any time soon. Here are three potential scenarios that infectious disease experts have sketched out for…

Maintaining commitment to immunization in Africa through COVID-19 and beyond

The COVID-19 pandemic is putting a strain on health systems worldwide. The increasing demand on health facilities and health care workers has dramatically shifted resources from essential routine health services to COVID-19 response as countries…

The poorest are most likely to die from COVID-19

Social inequity will put the poorest populations at greater risk from COVID-19

How COVID-19 could be causing a rare complication in children

Initially, children seemed to be least affected by the new coronavirus. However, new evidence suggests that a small number might have a rare immune reaction to COVID-19, with some needing intensive care.

How can fragile countries, like Afghanistan, respond to COVID-19?

As countries rich and poor struggle with challenges in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, Afghanistan is taking proactive steps to overcome its own.

How equipment is protecting us against COVID-19

Personal protective equipment, or PPE, such as masks and gloves are becoming part of our daily lives, but what counts as effective PPE and what doesn’t?

How COVID-19 is causing a ‘hunger pandemic’

The new coronavirus has killed more than a quarter of a million people in just a few months, but the pandemic’s effect on food, housing and job insecurity will last years.

Is antimicrobial resistance exacerbating the COVID-19 pandemic?

Will efforts to save lives in cases of severe COVID-19 trigger another global health crisis once the pandemic is over?

5 May 2020: Overview of the COVID-19 situation in Gavi-supported countries and Gavi’s response

Sixty-nine (out of 73) Gavi-eligible countries have reported 123,129 confirmed cases and 3,941 deaths, five more countries than the 64 announced last week. These countries account for about 3% of global COVID-19 cases and deaths.

How can the technology in our pockets track COVID-19?

Tracking who is infected is essential to controlling the transmission of contagious diseases. Could digital technology prove to be a game-changer for the current pandemic?

10 infectious diseases that could be the next pandemic

Because of vaccination, many deadly diseases are now preventable. But we still lack vaccines for other potentially lethal diseases that could spread to become pandemics like COVID-19. Here is a list of 10 diseases to watch.

COVID-19: Diagnostic testing uses, types and challenges

Even when a COVID-19 vaccine is available, testing can help pinpoint populations who should be prioritised for immunisation.

Five ways coronavirus could impact the future of global health

For the global health community, the implications resulting from COVID-19 could be immense.

What is an Advance Market Commitment and how could it help beat COVID-19?

How we can ensure that once a COVID-19 vaccine is available, it is accessible to everyone that needs it.

28 April 2020: Overview of the COVID-19 situation in Gavi-supported countries and Gavi’s response

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed a heavy burden on global economies, health care systems and other core sectors. Gavi is helping countries reallocate their health system strengthening grants to provide fast and flexible funding for vital…

Keeping routine immunisation going during COVID-19 in Indonesia

Q&A with Dr Vertando Halim, Coordinator of Expanded Programme on Immunization, Jakarta, Indonesia 

When is it safe to lift COVID-19 lockdown?

With so many lives and livelihoods at stake, when will the lockdowns end, and what will they look like across the world?

COVID-19: Gavi and UNICEF to secure equipment and diagnostics for lower-income countries

As part of Gavi’s work supporting lower-income countries’ response to COVID-19, the Alliance is providing US$ 40 million to UNICEF to secure supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) and diagnostics for 58 countries.

A COVID-19 vaccine might be ready within 18 months. But what happens then?

The world is currently on pause, buying time while an effective vaccine against COVID-19 is developed. Already, several vaccines have entered human trials, and discussions have begun about how the most promising candidates might be manufactured…

Gavi’s role in the COVID-19 response in supported countries

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed a heavy burden on global economies, healthcare systems and other core sectors. Gavi is helping countries reallocate their health system strengthening grants to provide fast and flexible funding for vital resources…

Gavi and global health actors collaborate to accelerate COVID-19 technologies for all

Goal of new global collaboration is to make COVID-19 diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines available to everybody that needs them as quickly as possible.

Lessons in preparing to distribute COVID-19 vaccine

How the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic can help us be better prepared for distributing and administering potential COVID-19 vaccines.

COVID-19 threatens weak health systems in indigenous Amazonian communities

Indigenous groups face unique health challenges. How do we mitigate these risks in our COVID response?

Will wearing a mask protect me from COVID-19?

How exactly is the COVID-19 virus spread and will a mask protect me?

Why a gender lens is needed for the COVID-19 response

The immediate and long-term consequences of the coronavirus pandemic are disproportionately impacting the lives of women and girls, and the most marginalised.

Can routine immunisation be carried out safely during COVID-19 pandemic?

How does the benefit of stopping the spread of coronavirus weigh up against the risks from diseases such as measles?

COVID-19 News in Brief

Informal workers at risk from both COVID-19 and lockdown measures

With COVID-19 spreading in low- and middle-income countries, governments have been imposing strict lockdowns that could pose an even greater threat than the virus itself.

COVID-19 lessons from a frontline health worker

Interview with Emmanuel Lansana, outpatient supervisor at Monrovia’s Redemption Hospital in Liberia, about lessons learned from the Ebola outbreak that can help tackle COVID-19.

How Africa has developed its scientific research capabilities

Africa is better prepared now to perform research in emerging infections than during the Ebola epidemics in West Africa.

Should we wear masks against COVID-19?

Will new evidence suggesting that the virus is airborne mean we all need to wear masks?

When is COVID-19 most contagious and why is self-isolation so important?

Although there are guidelines on how long people should self-isolate when infected, the data on how long people remain contagious is not yet fully understood.

Coronavirus risks creating a lethal vaccine gap

Could the impact of COVID-19 on routine immunisation be an even bigger threat in low-income countries than the virus itself?

COVID-19: massive impact on lower-income countries threatens more disease outbreaks

At least 13.5 million people to miss out on vaccinations due to postponement of campaigns and interruptions in routine vaccinations, with millions more likely to follow.

Why human impact on the environment is leading to infections like COVID-19

As we continue to encroach on the environment and erode natural habitats, the likelihood of other diseases like COVID-19 emerging to devastate the planet are high.

What kind of tests are there for COVID-19?

Large-scale testing for COVID-19 could help solve some of the mysteries surrounding the virus that are still puzzling scientists.

Modelling suggests suppression strategy will save more lives from COVID-19 in poor countries

Imperial model of the spread of COVID-19 implies a suppression strategy could be most effective.

What is COVID-19 and how is it spread?

With nearly 550,000 people infected, almost 25,000 dead, and hundreds of millions in lockdown across the globe, the coronavirus pandemic has brought the world to a standstill. But what do we know about COVID-19 and what can we do to fight this…

Gavi applauds G20 Leaders' commitment to supporting the global effort against COVID-19

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance applauds the commitment of the G20 Leaders chaired by Saudi Arabia “to provide immediate resources to the WHO’s…

What is herd immunity?

The idea of herd immunity as the solution to the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered heated debate, but what is herd immunity and how does it work? 

How do we stop the spread of a pandemic in a slum?

Over 1 billion lives are at risk if COVID-19 sweeps through crowded slums. How can we prepare?  

Why is coronavirus lockdown necessary?

With an increasing number of countries around the globe going into lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people forced to stay home may be wondering why these measures are necessary, how long they will need to go on for and what it will…

What is Gavi’s role in stopping the COVID-19 pandemic?

On the most recent issue of The Bio Report podcast, Gavi's Aurélia Nguyen discusses COVID-19 vaccine development, the role of the Vaccine Alliance in stopping the pandemic, and shares lessons learned from the 2014 Ebola outbreak that may prove…

When a COVID-19 vaccine is available, how will we pay for it?

When a COVID-19 vaccine is available, how will we pay for it?

Gavi Board calls for bold engagement to respond to COVID-19

With the COVID-19 pandemic already affecting 47 Gavi-supported countries, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance has already taken new steps to help strengthen the preparedness of health systems in lower-income countries with the full support of its Board.…

Research summary: How do you beat the COVID-19 pandemic in the absence of a drug or vaccine?

If COVID-19 epidemics are not controlled, 510,000 people could die in the UK and 2.2 million in the USA.

COVID-19: Q&A

With zero cases of COVID-19 in Mozambique so far, Dr Rosa Marlene, National Director of Public Health of Mozambique, discusses a potential impact that a pandemic of this magnitude could have on the country’s health system.

What not to touch: how to avoid contact with the new coronavirus

We touch countless objects every day, from house keys to our mobile phones. The virus that causes COVID-19 can last for anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours in the air (in the form of aerosol droplets) before drifting down onto surfaces,…

How clinical vaccine trials are speeding up in a pandemic

Clinical trials for vaccines can take 10-15 years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars, which is why pharmaceutical companies can be reluctant to start down that challenging road without a definite pay-off at the end. As the COVID-19 pandemic…

How might COVID-19 play out in Africa?

Africa marks a critical juncture for the coronavirus pandemic.

How do you stop a pandemic?

From travel restrictions to social distancing, what is the best way to stop a pandemic?

What is an emergency vaccine stockpile and how can they prevent pandemics?

We don’t yet know how the COVID-19 pandemic will progress and how long it will take for a vaccine to be developed, but the knowledge and experience gained from past outbreaks can be applied to the global response to coronavirus. 

Will coronavirus herald a new era in vaccine innovation?

A vaccine against the novel coronavirus is under urgent development as the number of people infected with COVID-19 increases, a process which could also result in a new range of highly innovative vaccine technologies that ushers in a new era in…