Plan to expand global access to Covid-19 vaccines nears fish-or-cut-bait moment

It's a crucial time for the WHO, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations to finalize an ambitious plan to secure a Covid-19 vaccine deal for more than 170 lower-income countries. Countries have to indicate by today whether they plan to participate in the so-called COVAX facility, CEPI CEO Richard Hatchett tells STAT's Helen Branswell. Countries have until Sep. 18 to make a binding commitment, and by early October to provide funds in support. This moment is especially important because many high-income countries, including the U.S. and Japan, have said they'll fund their own way to secure supplies of a vaccine, which could jeopardize non-wealthy countries' access. "We’ve argued the COVAX facility really offers the world the best shot at doing that globally in the fastest possible way, as well as providing for equitable access," Hatchett says.