“We must eliminate the vaccine gap between the rich and the poor… Korea’s leadership should play an important role”

by times news cr

Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, who recently visited Korea

Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, said in an interview with the Dong-A Ilbo on the 4th, “It is important to invest in a health system that protects the most vulnerable communities while preparing for a pandemic.” Reporter Park Hyung-ki [email protected]

“One of the important lessons the COVID-19 pandemic has taught the world is that diseases do not stop at borders.”

Sania Nishtar, CEO (61) of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, said this in an interview with the Dong-A Ilbo on the 4th, “It is important to invest in healthcare systems that protect the most vulnerable communities as we prepare for infectious disease pandemics.” She also said, “The African Vaccine Manufacturers Accelerator was launched this June,” and “We need to establish a strategy to diversify and continuously invest in (vaccine) manufacturing capabilities to minimize export restrictions in the event of a future pandemic.” Gavi is an international organization established in 2000 by Microsoft founder Bill Gates to increase vaccine accessibility in developing countries.

Nishtar stressed that vaccination can prevent many infectious diseases, and in particular, cervical cancer can reduce deaths by up to 90%. “Cervical cancer is a devastating disease that has a huge impact on women in low-income countries,” he said. “In 2022, 348,000 people died (from cervical cancer), and 90% of the deaths occurred in low- and middle-income countries.”

He added that there are still many children around the world who are not receiving vaccines. “Last year, 11 million children around the world did not receive a single dose of vaccine,” he said. “Our role is to help close the gap in vaccination coverage in low-income countries, restore vaccination coverage to pre-pandemic levels, and strengthen vaccination systems in the long term.”

Regarding Korea, he evaluated it as “remarkable for its dynamic and vibrant economy and innovative spirit.” CEO Nishtar said, “Korea’s journey from aid recipient to major donor is unique,” ​​and “Korea’s experience is a powerful example of what is possible with determination and vision, and it is a key player in helping other countries achieve similar progress.” He also said, “Korea’s commitment and leadership can play a critical role in the future of global health,” and “I look forward to Korea’s influence growing to ensure that all children have access to vaccines.”

Reporter Park Kyung-min [email protected]

Hot news right now

2024-09-11 22:01:32

You may also like

Leave a Comment