The EU Commission did not renew its order for the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. In fact, they have not renewed the order since June. Thierry Brenton said that they will see what happens next. However, the EU has signed a massive contract with Pfizer-BioNTech. Both the organizations have agreed to a contract for supplying 1.8 billion doses by 2023. Two weeks ago, the EU launched legal reports against AstraZeneca. It stated that the pharmaceutical giant has allegedly failed to respect its terms with the 27-nation union.
The centerpiece of European Immunization: AstraZeneca Vaccine
The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is European immunization’s integral part. It is a key ingredient in the global strategy to supply vaccines to poor nations. As compared to Pfizer’s vaccine, it is cheaper and affordable. It is easy to store and easy to use as well. But the company’s slow delivery pace is frustrating the Europeans. They have held it responsible for the slow rollout of vaccines in the European market. Significantly, AstraZeneca is Britain’s centerpiece for the vaccination campaign. Many people in the UK are inoculated with its jab.
EU Projects Pfizer’s Vaccine Better than AstraZeneca’s
Hence, observing the situation, the EU has not renewed its contract with AstraZeneca. The company is held responsible for slow vaccine rollout. On the other hand, Pfizer’s vaccine rollout strength is good. The new contract will entail vaccine production. Besides that, they will also ensure that all essentials are sourced from the EU. Pfizer-BioNTech will provide the EU with 50 million doses in the latter quarter this year.
EU Commission President said that Pfizer is a reliable company. It delivers on time and does what it promises, unlike AstraZeneca. The technology used in both the Covid vaccines is also different. Pfizer’s vaccine contains RNA or mRNA. It helps in building spike protein inside the human body. This spike protein helps in further immunization against COVID-19.
AstraZeneca Regrets the EU’s Decision
AstraZeneca signed a contract with the EU for delivering 300 million doses. They had hoped to supply 80 million in 2021’s first quarter. But, only 30 million were supplied. Now the company will provide only 70 million in the latter quarter. Although, they had promised 180 million doses. The company said that they regret the EU’s decision. However, they will defend themselves in court.
