Srinagar, May 7: Two major drug makers , US Pfizer and German BioNTech in collaboration with International Olympic Council (IOC) on Thursday announced the signing of MoU through which Pfizer and BioNTech will donate COVID-19 Vaccines to Tokyo Olympics 2020 bound athletes.
As per statements issued drugmakers will start supplying vaccines as early as the end of this month so that athletes and delegations can complete their vaccinations by the opening of the games in late July.
The IOC is expected to discuss the matter with national Olympic committees around the world and provide vaccines as needed. It is up to states to offer immunization to athletes and delegations, in accordance with local guidance, before traveling to Japan for the Tokyo games.
“This donation of the vaccine is another tool in our toolbox of measures to help make the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 safe and secure for all participants, and to show solidarity with our gracious Japanese hosts,” IOC President Thomas Bach said in a statement. “We are inviting the athletes and participating delegations of the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games to lead by example and accept the vaccine, where and when possible.”
Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in a statement: “The return of the Olympic and Paralympic Games represents a monumental moment of world unity and peace after a grueling year of isolation and devastation. We are proud to play a role in providing vaccines to athletes and national Olympic delegations.”
Several participating countries, including Australia and Iran, have taken steps to inoculate their Olympic athletes. IPC President Andrew Parsons said last week that around 60% of Paralympians have been vaccinated.