CARE Health Equity and Rights - Policy Report - Our Best Shot: Women Frontline Health Workers

Less recognized, but no less important, are the 3.5 million semi-formal and informal health workers around the world who serve the patients at the “last mile” of delivery.iv At least 70% of these health workers are women - who are risking their lives to get vaccines, services, and supplies to the most underserved and at risks populations in the world.v “The constant fear of my safety and survival. [...] In the US alone, 76% of nurses are reporting burnout and exhaustion, and there are similar numbers in most countries in the world.ix Investing in these women is one of the best ways to ensure we experience the benefits of COVID-19 vaccines. [...] With variants of the virus, such as those found in the UK, South Africa, and Brazil, continuing to emerge CARE Policy Report March 2021: Our Best Shot 4 With variants of the virus, such as those found in the UK, South Africa, and Brazil, continuing to emerge and spread in new countries, it is painfully clear that the safety of any person depends on the ability to protect everyone. [...] Health and beyond to provide health care and support workers are the lynchpin in delivering fast and fair communities during the pandemic. [...] Focusing on delivering COVID-19 vaccines, and supporting women health workers who are crucial to any delivery plan, is our best shot of ensuring fast and fair delivery of the vaccine, and control of the COVID-19 pandemic.