COTW: World Vaccination Rates

This map shows the problem the world faces suppressing the SARS CoV-2 virus, which is showing amazing resiliency and adaptability despite the unprecedented rapid development of several effective vaccines.  The African continent is conspicuous because of its low vaccination rates (7%), and high levels of immune-compromised individuals.  As one researcher said, the virus is "relentlessly opportunistic" in its fight to survive and spread.  Omicron originated in a a human population that is under-vaccinated and has many members with HIV infections.  Thus, it had time to adapt and mutate extensively, thereby increasing the probability of successfully infecting individuals, and increase transmissibility.  Omicron has 30 or more mutations of its spike protein, which it uses to attach itself to human cells that then replicate its DNA.  

The chart demonstrates a simple, yet difficult fact: without high levels of vaccination worldwide, the coronavirus will continue to adapt, multiply and infect humans even in countries with high vaccination compliance because evolution works.