The Intelligence from The Economist Dropped shots: Russia’s third wave
Jul 7, 2021
Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, dives into Russia's turbulent COVID-19 landscape, revealing the stark reality behind the third wave and its devastating impact. He discusses the public's deep mistrust of the Sputnik V vaccine fueled by mixed government messaging. The conversation also touches on DARPA's pivotal role in advancing mRNA technology, changing preconceived notions of its defense-only focus. Lastly, Lockwood honors Kenneth Kaunda, reflecting on his legacy and the broader challenges of fostering innovation.
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Russia's COVID-19 Crisis
- Russia is experiencing its third and most severe COVID-19 wave, driven by the Delta variant.
- Official death tolls are significantly undercounted; excess deaths suggest a much higher impact.
Low Vaccination Rates in Russia
- Despite being the first country to register a COVID-19 vaccine (Sputnik V), Russia's vaccination rate remains low.
- Vaccine hesitancy is widespread, with many Russians expressing disinterest in getting vaccinated.
Sputnik V's Early Approval
- Sputnik V's approval before phase three trials and data discrepancies raised concerns about its development.
- Although later data confirmed its efficacy, the initial doubts contributed to vaccine hesitancy.