- Countries all over the world are reporting the sale of fake, or misleadingly labelled, vaccines.
- Counterfeit COVID vaccines are part of the rapidly increasing worldwide trade in fake medicines that poses a grave threat to health.
- Blockchain-backed traceability systems could be used to authenticate drugs – paired with secure labels.
In the past, forgers have targeted currency, artworks, even wine. Now, COVID-19 vaccines are in their sights. In July, CNN reported thousands of people had fallen prey to a scam selling fake coronavirus vaccines in India, with doctors and medical workers among those arrested for their involvement. At least 12 fake vaccination drives were held in or near the financial hub of Mumbai. Around 2,500 people who thought they were being administered a legitimate AstraZeneca dose were in effect receiving saline – and paid for the privilege. Another fake vaccination camp…
