Europe to Purchase 325 Million mRNA, Vector-based, Protein-based Vaccines Annually

Reuters recently reported the European Commission secured purchase agreements with New York-based Pfizer Inc. and several European drugmakers to reserve the capacity to produce up to 325 million vaccines per year in case of a future global health emergency.

On June 30, 2023,  Reuters confirmed this new agreement covers mRNA, vector-based and protein-based vaccines and does not relate to existing COVID-19 vaccine agreements.

The Commission helps to shape the European Union's (EU) overall strategy, proposes new laws and policies, monitors their implementation, and manages the budget. It also plays a significant role in supporting international development and delivering aid.

To facilitate safe free movement during the COVID-19 pandemic, the EU established the EU Digital COVID Certificate in 2023, based on the EU Global Health and World Health Organization (WHO) Global Strategies on digital health.

On July 1, 2023, the WHO took up the EU system of digital COVID-19 certification (passports) to establish a global system that will help protect citizens worldwide from on-going and future health threats, including pandemics.