"The world is on the brink of a catastrophic moral failure," says @DrTedros @WHO.

>39 Million vaccine doses have been administered in 49 high-income countries.

25 (just 25) doses have been given in one low-income country.

"Even as they speak the language of equitable access, some countries and companies continue to prioritize bilateral deals, going around COVAX, driving up prices and attempting to jump to the front of the queue."

@DrTedros says that's compounded by manufacturers prioritizing approval in rich countries. That will delay deliveries to low-middle income countries and create a scenario "with hoarding, a chaotic market, an uncoordinated response, and continued social and economic disruption."

To at least get the vaccine to health workers & elderly everywhere, @DrTedros says (rich) countries with bilateral contracts "need to be transparent on these contracts with COVAX, including on volumes, pricing & delivery dates. And to give COVAX a place in line."

"We also call vaccine producers to provide WHO with full data for regulatory review in real time, to accelerate approvals. We also call on producers to allow countries with bilateral contracts to prioritize supplying COVAX rather than new bilateral deals," says @DrTedros

Estimates from Economist Intelligence Unit