Big news item the other day, Russia announces the covid vaccine is approved for use.  This although stage 3 (widespread testing) has not been conducted.

Based on the best information cobbled together by the press about 87 people have tested the vaccine so far.  This raises very real questions about both the safety and ultimate effectiveness of the vaccine.

Jumping the Gun

While the continuing positive progress toward the development of a vaccine is welcome, Russia’s announcement is very negatively colored by the doubt it is generating worldwide.

Is this really an effective preventative solution or is it just Russia eager to empress the world with their capabilities.  Even the virus name (Sputnik) seems to be more focused on marketing than anything else (first manned space vehicle, first covid virus).

Harm or Good

It is unlikely many other countries will adopt the Russian vaccine without rigorous testing.   This announcement gives hope (that is good) it could be a false hope (that is bad).

Efforts on phase 3 vaccine testing throughout the world will continue and it is unlikely countries like Canada or the U.S. will approve any vaccine for use without completion of the normal full testing protocols.

Of course in the case of U.S., it is hard to predict what Donald Trump will try to do.  Hopefully, there are enough checks and balances in place to ensure the country does not take to many risks (although past behavior makes you wonder).

Bottom Line

This political positioning by Russia could very much backfire.  If the vaccine is not as effective or does have unidentified negative side effects moving quickly might be a mistake.

On the other hand, if the vaccine is effective this will be a great win for Russia.  All in all this is a risk decision which could go either way (good or bad), the jury is out.