Ottawa, February 7, 2022 – COVID-19 vaccines have proven to be the most effective tool against the serious health impacts of COVID-19. Innovative Medicines Canada (IMC) and its member companies recognize the importance of turning vaccines into vaccinations around the world. With a growing supply of reliable vaccines in Canada and in other nations, attention now is shifting to the remaining barriers to access due to distribution and logistics issues, as well as the impacts of vaccine hesitancy.
It’s important to recall that in less than two years, the global pharmaceutical sector researched, developed, manufactured, and shipped COVID-19 vaccines at an unprecedented rate, now reaching 1 billion doses produced each month globally. Effective vaccines, made to the highest standards of quality and safety, are available thanks to a robust global intellectual property system that enabled innovation, secured a complex supply chain, and drove collaboration around the world.
Close collaboration between industry and governments remains essential to Canada’s response to the pandemic at home and abroad, including educating populations on the safety and efficacy of vaccines. This collaboration will continue as Canada works to support the WHO’s June 2022 global vaccination target of 70%. Extending the partnerships built to date, now is the time for Canada and the world to ensure that COVAX has the resources it needs to deliver on the promise of access to biomedical innovation for all. IMC commends the Government of Canada for its commitment to donate at least 200 million additional vaccine doses to COVAX by the end of 2022, along with much needed financial support to COVAX for the procurement and delivery of vaccines.[1] This support is vital to overcome the logistical challenges and vaccine hesitancy confronting vaccination programs in many parts of the world.
IMC’s members are dedicated to continuing their efforts to work with governments, international organizations, NGOs and other stakeholders in the collective global effort to reverse the spread and contain the threat of COVID-19.
About Innovative Medicines Canada
Innovative Medicines Canada is the national association representing the voice of Canada’s innovative pharmaceutical industry. The association advocates for policies that enable the discovery, development, and delivery of innovative medicines and vaccines to improve the lives of all Canadians and supports the members’ commitment to being a valued partner in the Canadian healthcare system. “The association represents 48 companies who invest nearly $1.2-billion in R&D annually, fueling Canada’s knowledge-based economy, while contributing $8-billion to Canada’s economy. Guided by the Code of Ethical Practices, all members work with governments, private payers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders in a highly ethical manner.
For further information: media@imc-mnc.ca
[1] Source: Government of Canada. Canada’s international vaccine donations
