By: Yinuo Chen (Results volunteer)
Recent Ebola outbreaks and other emerging infectious diseases remind us that health threats can appear anywhere and spread quickly across borders. The question is not whether the next pandemic will happen, but whether we will be ready when it does.
The COVID-19 pandemic showed not being prepared can lead to disastrous results. It cost Canada over $624 billion and pushed approximately 88 to 115 million people worldwide into extreme poverty. These impacts show that investing in preparedness now is far less costly than responding to another global health crisis.
Canada has an opportunity to strengthen global health security by committing $125 million over five years to the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). Through its 100 Days Mission, CEPI aims to develop safe and effective vaccines within 100 days of a future pandemic threat.
By supporting CEPI, Canada can help protect lives and build a stronger global response before the next pandemic arrives.
