On January 4, 2021, Britain launched a mass rollout of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, distributing 530,000 doses. Unlike Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, this shot requires no ultra-cold storage, making it easier to distribute, especially in less wealthy nations.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson, facing a severe infection wave, warned of tougher restrictions but expressed hope, stating, “We see a way out, though tough times lie ahead.”
Global Pandemic Toll
The coronavirus infected nearly 85 million people and killed over 1.8 million globally since emerging in China in December 2019, per AFP’s tally. Britain, with around 1 million vaccinated using Pfizer’s shot since December, aims to inoculate tens of millions in three months, Johnson told the BBC.
China’s Vaccination Push
In China, authorities vaccinated 4.5 million people with largely unproven emergency vaccines, targeting health workers and state employees for overseas roles. Beijing races to inoculate millions before the Lunar New Year travel season in February, aiming to curb the virus’s spread.
US Struggles with Vaccine Rollout
The United States, surpassing 20 million cases and 350,000 deaths, faced criticism for a slow vaccine rollout. Only 4.2 million received shots, far below the Trump administration’s 20 million goal. Anthony Fauci called the delays “understandable glitches,” while Moncef Slaoui proposed halving Moderna doses to stretch supply, citing similar immune responses. Logistical issues and hospital strain hampered efforts.
India Approves Vaccines
On January 3, India approved the AstraZeneca and Bharat Biotech vaccines, targeting 300 million vaccinations by mid-2021. Despite the ambitious plan, a survey of 18,000 Indians showed 69% hesitated to get vaccinated, fueled by social media skepticism and conspiracy theories.
Israel’s Rapid Vaccination
Israel led global efforts, planning to vaccinate 2 million people—about 20% of its population—with both Pfizer doses by January’s end. The country’s fast start contrasted with global challenges in production and distribution.
Challenges and Hope
Vaccine delays, logistical issues, and public skepticism threaten progress, especially as new variants emerge. Britain’s AstraZeneca rollout and global efforts signal hope, but experts warn of a tough road ahead as nations battle rising cases and strained healthcare systems.
