Vaccine supply chains: priority areas of action emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic

Vaccine supply chains – from raw material sourcing and production to getting vaccines into people’s arms – have been widely acknowledged as a key constraint to achieving high coverage for COVID-19 vaccines globally. While there has been extensive discussion on vaccine production and access, equally important are the complexities of sourcing critical components and raw materials; installing and maintaining cold chain infrastructure; vaccine supply chain information systems; and well-trained and motivated staff to run and manage the logistics of vaccine distribution. There is an urgent need for a blueprint (and accompanying governance structure) that lays out specific technical activities, public and private investments, and coordination tasks needed for the overall vaccine supply chain to be ready to handle large demand surges such as during pandemics and large outbreaks.