The successive failures of the Jair Bolsonaro government in the national planning of vaccination against coronavirus have caused governors to seek outlets that do not depend on the federal government. They want to know in writing from Eduardo Pazuello (Health Ministry) how many vaccines he plans to buy, giving them freedom to buy their own. Behind the scenes, governors are negotiating directly with laboratories, but they are unable to complete the acquisitions.
Last year, the government's negationist stance had already led states to seek alternatives. In October, however, Pazuello appeared and made an assertive statement that the ministry would buy all vaccines approved by Anvisa, which gave governors some peace of mind.
The failure of the flight to India, the promises in vain and the diplomatic problems with China have depleted the hopes of governors.
Behind the scenes, governors report that they have been trying to make purchases, but suppliers are charging very high prices or selling in very large quantities, making acquisitions unfeasible for now.
Translated by Kiratiana Freelon