The Banking Executive Magazine - April 2021

The COVID-19 VACCINES are put together and consolidated in a vaccine technology framework proposed by the Union of Arab Banks. This framework embraces COVID-19 vaccines knowledge repository, tracking dashboard, tech- nologies, policy and guidance, pro- duction, operation, and impact on GDP, stock market, and various eco- nomic sectors. We conclude with recommendations to empower the vaccine technology framework in a global digital economy and GROW, BUILD, and DEPLOY the supporting global digital economy platform. VACCINES BASICS The World Health Organization WHO informs that vaccination is a simple, safe, and effective way of protecting people against harmful diseases. It helps the body to build resistance to specific infections and strengthen immunity. Vaccines train the immune system to create anti- bodies when exposed to a disease. Most vaccines are given by an injec- tion, but some are given orally or sprayed into the nose. COVID-19 VACCINES DASHBOARD Gavi, The World Vaccine Alliance, tracked COVID-19 vaccines devel- oped so far. According to Gavi sources, as of January 2021, two hundreds novel coronavirus vaccine candidates are under development, of which 64 are in clinical trials. ISSUE 148 APRIL 2021 the BANKING EXECUTIVE 55 Figure 1: The COVID-19 VACCINE RACE (sources: Gavi, The World Vaccine Alliance)