Canada and the United Kingdom were among the first of three countries to approve and administer the first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines. While there are a few similar vaccines in the pipeline, Pfizer is the only company to receive emergency authorization. Comparatively, the United States reported record-breaking case numbers on Wednesday. Earlier today, the first shipment of Pfizer vaccines left the factory in Michigan.
The vaccine has had clinical success, with 95% effectiveness at preventing the illness. The first wave of vaccines are prioritized for healthcare workers, elderly individuals, and people with pre-existing conditions. However, due to the limited number of vaccines, states are anticipating, they will only be able to vaccinate 13%-18% of their workers. Interestingly, White House Staffers will be among the first groups receiving the vaccine.
There has been some contention around administering the vaccine to young people, but it has received approval for people 16 years and older. However, the vaccine is not expected to be widely available until the Spring of 2021. It will be interesting to see what kind of impact the first wave of vaccines will have on the countries daily operations.
CIMA Law Group Blog 