The World Health Organization has urged countries to work in unison in efforts to develop and distribute a COVID-19 vaccine.
The WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom said in a media briefing on Tuesday that solidarity was essential in the quest to eradicate the virus.
Tedros likened the fight against the pandemic to an instrumental ensemble which incorporates various talents to produce the best melody.
“Like an orchestra, we need all instruments to be played in harmony to create music that everyone enjoys,” he said.
“One or two instruments playing by themselves just won’t suffice when the world is waiting and listening intently. We will work to bring the band together, to promote science, solutions and solidarity because we believe to our core that we do it best, when we do it together.”
Tedros’ remarks came as the world’s COVID-19 infections neared the 22 million mark, with a death toll exceeding 774,000.
He called for the prioritization of the people most at risk, once a COVID-19 vaccine is approved for use.
He said “consideration will be given to countries’ in relation to threat and vulnerability” highlighting frontline health workers and persons aged 65 years and over as high-risk groups.
