The approval of multiple vaccines will hopefully end the COVID-19 crisis in 2021 – but what can people and brands learn from this pandemic? Canvas8 spoke to Richard Preston, the author ofThe Hot Zone, to understand how it compares with previous outbreaks and its potential long-term impact.

The travel industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, with many people simply not allowed to travel, and others choosing not to. For Australian brand Tripfuser, this presented an opportunity to innovate and meet people’s travel lust with a bubble-based strategy.

Dracula’s castle in Romania is offering visitors a free COVID-19 vaccine alongside a tour of its torture exhibition. Meanwhile, in Shanghai, girl band SNH48 has been enlisted to promote vaccinations. These schemes aim to lure vaccine-hesitant Gen Zers through experiential nudges.

Krispy Kreme is hoping to incentivize Americans to get the COVID-19 vaccine by offering those with valid vaccination cards a free donut. The playful initiative has had a mixed reception, with some criticizing the brand for doling out unhealthy food for a public health cause.