The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has urged Pfizer and Moderna to boost their production volume of COVID-19 vaccines to meet the ongoing demand and supply gaps in the market. The EMA, in a statement, emphasized that the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, particularly in Europe, has put a significant strain on the existing vaccine supplies.
The EMA stated that Pfizer and Moderna, being two of the biggest vaccine manufacturers, should augment their production capacity to ensure timely delivery of vaccines to meet the growing demand. The agency emphasized that this is crucial to prevent the spread of the virus and reduce hospitalizations.
The EMA’s appeal comes as many European countries are struggling to control the surge in COVID-19 cases, with some experiencing a third wave of the pandemic. Many countries are reporting a shortage of vaccines, which is making it challenging for healthcare providers to maintain adequate supplies.
The EMA’s recommendation is based on its monitoring of the vaccine supply and demand situation in Europe, which suggests that the current vaccine production is not keeping pace with the demand. The agency warned that if the situation is not addressed, it could lead to a reduction in vaccine availability, which would have serious implications for public health.
In response to the EMA’s appeal, both Pfizer and Moderna have agreed to increase their production volume. Pfizer has announced plans to increase its monthly production capacity by 80 million doses, while Moderna has pledged to boost its production by 50 million doses.
It is worth noting that the EMA’s appeal is not limited to Pfizer and Moderna alone. The agency has also been working with other vaccine manufacturers, such as Johnson & Johnson, to ensure that there is adequate supply of COVID-19 vaccines. The EMA has also been monitoring the production capacity of other manufacturers, such as AstraZeneca and Novavax, to ensure that they are meeting the demand.
In conclusion, the EMA has urged Pfizer and Moderna to boost their production volume of COVID-19 vaccines to meet the growing demand and supply gaps in the market. The agency’s appeal comes as many European countries are struggling to control the surge in COVID-19 cases and are facing a shortage of vaccines. The move is aimed at preventing the spread of the virus and reducing hospitalizations.