COVID-19 Variants of Concern: Social Consequences & Implications for the Vaccine

Recent news about emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) has left many concerned about the social consequences, global impacts, and whether vaccines will be rendered ineffective against COVID-19. In this episode of the Public Health Insight, we examine the potential impacts on vaccine development, distribution, administration, and the understated implications of low-income countries being left behind in the global race for vaccines. We also discuss how the lack of standard nomenclature for VOCs can perpetuate stigma if they are simply named based on the country or region in which they were first identified.References for Our Discussion World Health Organization: SARS-CoV2 VariantsScience Mag: Viral mutations may cause another ‘very very bad’ COVID-19 wave scientists warnVox: The Coronavirus is mutating. Now what?Podcast Co-HostsWilliam Wang, BA, MPHLeshawn Benedict, MPH, MSc, CAPM®Gordon Thane, BMSc, MPH, PMP®Sulaiman Alhalbouni, BMSc, MPHShare Your Thoughts With Us!Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. We would love it if you shared your thoughts by commenting on our posts, sending us a direct message through social media, or by emailing us at [email protected]. Until then, we’ll see you in the next one.Music CreditsTokyo Music Walker - Way HomeLukrembo - SunsetLakey Inspired - Street Dreams • Oceans • Chill Day • Watching The Clouds • Feeling Good • The Dreamer • Beach Dayz • The ProcessSend us a Text Message to let us know what you think.