COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL Preparedness for COVID-19 vaccination strategies and vaccine deployment

1. On 15 October 2020, the European Commission published a communication which sets out what it views as key actions that Member States should take in preparing for and eventually deploying COVID-19 vaccines.

2. The Communication notes the importance of vaccines as part of a long-term way of managing COVID-19, especially given that non-pharmaceutical interventions (for example wearing masks, and self-isolating) are not a sustainable solution to the virus.

3. The Communication highlights work done by the Commission on working with key vaccine manufacturers to secure vaccine supplies once available and emphasising that the supply has been secured for all Member States. It also notes that the Commission has worked with various international partners to raise money for global efforts towards vaccine development.

4. It also details the need for logistical preparations in terms of ensuring there is an available workforce to administer the vaccine, as well as the means to transport the vaccine, to make it readily available to people and to ensure that uptake is widespread.