By: Jolianna Mbaka (Results volunteer)
The ongoing Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda, alongside a sudden hantavirus outbreak on a global cruise ship, are stark reminders that viral threats are not a distant memory. They are happening right now, proving that the next pandemic is not a question of if, but when.
When a crisis strikes, the speed of science determines whether an outbreak is successfully contained or becomes a global catastrophe. During COVID-19, vaccine development took 326 days. Experts estimate that hitting a 100-day target instead would have saved eight million lives.
With future pandemics projected to cost the global economy over $700 billion annually, cutting preparedness budgets is a dangerous mistake. Preparing now is simple economic common sense—investing in pandemic prevention yields an incredible $14 return for every single dollar spent. Because world-class Canadian researchers are already core partners in this global network, a pledge to the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) directly strengthens our own biomanufacturing jobs and national security.
With the G7 Leaders' Summit approaching this month, Canada must lead. Our government must champion the 100 Days Mission by investing $125 million over five years in CEPI 3.0.
Volunteer Voices articles are penned by Results Canada volunteers, fellows, and staff. The views and opinions expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Résultats Canada. Click ici for more Volunteer Voices articles and learn how you can submit your letter to the editor (LTE) or op-ed.
