Pandemic readiness: Canada urged to protect vulnerable groups
The next pandemic is inevitable and could be more dangerous than Covid-19. Authors of the latest report from Canada are urging immediate preparations, with a focus on disadvantaged and marginalised social groups.
20 October 2024 15:06
The report, "The Time to Act is Now," was commissioned by the Canadian government and prepared by six scientists and doctors tasked with assessing the importance of collaboration with scientists during a pandemic. Experts summarised: "Canada needs to learn from the COVID-19 pandemic and take action before the next health emergency strikes."
They also note that before the pandemic, the collection and sharing of data on health determinants were inadequate. During the pandemic, city health services began to gather significant data, but in many instances, these efforts were initiated too late.
Preparation must start now
"A future emergency ... could be faster moving and more severe than the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 disproportionately negatively impacted communities already experiencing inequities and health disparities. This included lower-income Canadians, homeless and under-housed populations, Black and other racialized populations, and individuals living in vulnerable conditions," wrote the authors of the latest Canadian report.
In response, experts recommend forming a Canada-wide advisory group now rather than convening an expert panel only during the next pandemic.
Pandemic and social issues
The report highlights that the pandemic had a disproportionately severe impact on Canadians who face systemic barriers in accessing healthcare, have poorer health conditions, and contend with social issues that can exacerbate the effects of emergencies.
One of the principal conclusions of the report concerns the need to improve equality in access to healthcare.
Traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis
The authors also point out the difficulties faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada during the pandemic, not just due to inadequate access to healthcare or poverty. They emphasised that Indigenous knowledge on health issues must be integrated into the coordination of scientific research and expert opinions, underscoring the need to fund studies that incorporate the traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.
The report cites New Zealand as an example, which includes principles of collaboration with Māori in its national risk register, which supports ministries and enables the use of their unique knowledge in planning and preparation processes. The experts emphasised that such standards are crucial in crisis planning.
