More than 100 countries to begin vaccinating populations against COVID-19

Paris, Feb 1 (AFP/APP): More than 100 countries have yet to begin vaccinating their populations against Covid-19, with reasons varying from cost constraints to poor organisation, red tape and widespread mistrust of vaccines.

Here are four case studies from around the world. – Japan – Relatively spared by the pandemic with fewer than 6,000 deaths in a country of 126 million, Japan has reached deals with Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca that together will cover its entire population.

But despite huge stakes — Tokyo is due to host the summer Olympics in July after postponing the Games for a year — Japan has chosen to take its time with the rollout.

Media outlets suggest the drive will begin in May, more than five months behind most other wealthy countries.

Health authorities, who can be held responsible for any side effects, want to confirm the vaccines’ safety through domestic clinical trials before giving any of them a green light.