Recent news about emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) has left many concerned about the social consequences, global impacts, and whether vaccines will be rendered ineffective against COVID-19. In this episode of the Public Health Insight, we examine the potential impacts on vaccine development, distribution, administration, and the understated implications of low-income countries being left behind in the global race for vaccines. We also discuss how the lack of standard nomenclature for VOCs can perpetuate stigma if they are simply named based on the country or region in which they were first identified.

References for Our Discussion

• World Health Organization: SARS-CoV2 Variants
• Science Mag: Viral mutations may cause another ‘very very bad’ COVID-19 wave scientists warn
• Vox: The Coronavirus is mutating. Now what?

Podcast Co-Hosts

• William Wang, BA, MPH
• Leshawn Benedict, MPH, MSc, CAPM®
• Gordon Thane, BMSc, MPH, PMP®
• Sulaiman Alhalbouni, BMSc, MPH

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Music Credits

• Tokyo Music Walker – Way Home
• Lukrembo – Sunset
• Lakey Inspired – Street Dreams • Oceans • Chill Day • Watching The Clouds • Feeling Good • The Dreamer • Beach Dayz • The Process

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