Canada Urged to Strengthen Pandemic Preparedness and Data Sharing

Experts emphasize the need for improved communication and support for vulnerable communities ahead of future health crises.

A panel of experts warns that another global health crisis is inevitable and Canada must act now to prepare.
The report highlights the importance of effective disease surveillance and data sharing between provinces, territories, and the federal government.
It calls for the establishment of a permanent scientific advisory group to provide consistent guidance during emergencies.
Addressing inequities in healthcare access for racialized, Indigenous, homeless, and long-term care residents is deemed critical.
Despite past successes like wastewater surveillance, recent cuts to such programs raise concerns about future data availability.