Vaccine manufacturer Pfizer somewhat unexpectedly announced imminent throttling back of deliveries. Financial Times FT.Com explains this should be temporary during January and February 2021, while it increases manufacturing capability. Pfizer’s throttling supply to increase capacity may affect European, and Canadian ability to vaccinate vulnerable people according to program.
Regulatory Approvals Behind the Curtailment in Deliveries
The manufacture of vaccines is under strict regulatory control, and so it should be for our safety. Pfizer told Financial Times the changes require regulatory approval, and we agree this should be so. The modifications will affect the manufacturing plant in Puurs, Belgium, from where supplies go out to European nations. However, Pfizer says there will be a ‘significant increase in doses available for patients from late February and March’ onward.
Pfizer’s throttling supply to increase capacity puts additional pressure on EU nations already facing criticism for slow roll outs. We understand six Nordic and Baltic states are ‘severely’ concerned about the sustainability and credibility of the COVID-19 vaccination process’. However, United Kingdom is confident of vaccinating all four of its priority groups by February 15, 2020.
Pfizer’s Throttling Supply, to Increase Capacity and Market Share
This will be an interesting one to watch. The Pfizer vaccine requires unusually cold conditions for storage and transport. Whereas the Moderna and Astra Zeneca ones are more suitable for existing healthcare situations with standard fridges and freezers.
Meanwhile Russia and China are pushing their vaccines hard in the third world. Some nations there have been holding back for more user-friendly ones amenable to their facilities.
Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, Denmark and Sweden have appealed to the European Commission for relief. Sweden, for example is expecting a 25% cut in week one. Business Insider confirms Pfizer is not the only company staggering under global demand for Pfizer vaccines. We wish them well with their upgrade, and we hope to see them back in full production soon.
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