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The political aspect is important. Especially since the Kremlin doesn’t have many other hits to show to the outside world or to its own people. Of course, being the first and the best in the world when it comes to something of global importance builds self-esteem. That the vaccine hasn’t really been fully tested and the ones now being vaccinated are a bit of a guinea pig is something the mainstream TV channels are quietly talking about.
“Tradition of high competition”
At the same time, it is the case that there is a long tradition of high competition when it comes to research and medicine in Russia. And when those in power in the Kremlin point out that developing a vaccine is a top priority, then the necessary capacity exists. And in Europe, the United States, and China, vaccines have developed just as quickly.
Few countries in the world have found more infected by the coronavirus. According to unreliable official statistics, more than 40,000 Russians have died from covid-19. But President Putin clearly believes that the Russian economy cannot withstand a major recession. The population seems to agree. So you put your hope in the vaccine.
“Initially quite modest”
The so-called mass vaccination that has now started is initially quite modest. Perhaps around five thousand Muscovites were vaccinated today. Out of a population of around 15 million. That brings me back to politics and international prestige: Pfizer / Moderna announced that their vaccine gave 90 percent immunity. The next day, Russia announced that the Russian vaccine provided 92% protection. A few days ago, the UK announced that vaccination will start next week. So today vaccination began in Russia.
But the concrete thing here remains that there is a vaccine (somewhat uncertain) that is now beginning to be administered to people in risk groups. First, people who are forced to have contact with many people at work; doctors, health professionals and teachers. It is considered good news and a Russian success.
