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S&P: EU could meet 70% vaccination target by late July if production steps up

15 February 2021 11:54 (UTC +04:00)

According to S&P Global Ratings' calculations, the EU could be able to vaccinate 70% of its adult population against COVID-19 by late July 2021 and its more vulnerable demographic group of over 65s by end-April. The U.K. and the U.S. should reach 70% by July 2021, APA-Economics reports citing the rating agency.

However, if there is a delay in delivering the expected volumes, reaching 70% would move to late August or early September. A delay could potentially result from a slower ramp-up of production, later approval of the Johnson & Johnson one-dose vaccine, logistical challenges with distribution and administration and last, but not least, willingness of people to be vaccinated.

As of now the European Commission has contracted for 2.3 billion doses and has had exploratory talks for another 260 million doses.