Sean Tarry Writes.

Scientists and researchers all across the country, and the world, are working diligently to protect populations from harmful impacts of the next deadly virus

Although the most significant impacts of the COVID-19 global pandemic seem to be behind us, for the most part, its lasting effects are not yet completely understood by scientists and researchers around the world. This poses potential challenges, both current and future, when it comes to protecting people against viral threats. With this in mind, the Canadian Federal Government recently announced the development of a network of pandemic preparedness research and innovation hubs located across the country. The university of Toronto-led hub -Canadian Hub for Health Intelligence & Innovation in Infectious Diseases (HI3) – is focused on enhancing Canada’s ability and aptitude to quickly and effectively respond to any future pandemic. The University of Windsor is one of the hubs more significant partners. It’s work that Kenneth Ng, Professor in the University of Windsor’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, says is critical in helping scientists better understand how certain types of viruses replicate and spread in order to protect the health and wellbeing of people everywhere.

“It’s incredibly important work that the team here at Windsor, and teams at other universities and organizations all across the country, are doing,” he says. “The pandemic caused a lot of issues around the world, shutting down borders and disrupting communities everywhere. Things will happen. And, generally speaking, most outbreaks of that nature are somewhat unpredictable by nature. It makes it very important for scientists and researchers across Canada to continue conducting work meant to develop a better understanding of COVID-19, its spread, and apply those findings to prepare for the next pandemic. There’s definitely a lesson in here for us. We need to heed what we’ve experienced to ensure that we can respond quicker and more effectively to these types of threats in the future.”

Enhanced preparedness

Ng and his team at Windsor have enjoyed some of the initial wave of government funding that was announced a little more than a year ago as part of its $10 million investment meant to support the creation of five research hubs across Canada through the Canada Biomedical Research Fund. It’s funding that he recognizes as critical to the continuation of testing and research. And, it goes a long way, he says, toward ensuring the country’s preparedness planning and execution.

“It’s vitally important that government make these investments,” he says. “It’s support that encourages scientists and researchers across the country to be as proactive as possible in the face of threats that have yet to rear their heads. It enables us to move from a reactive field to one that is on the front foot, attacking these challenges face on in search of solutions to our problems.”

Securing our health and wellbeing

Ng goes on to explain that the research and work being conducted across all of Canada’s hubs is only made possible through close collaboration and the open sharing of information. He suggests that it’s the only way an endeavour of this size and scope will work. And he says that he looks forward to continue working toward a healthier and safer planet for everyone.

“It’s very important that everyone involved is pulling in the same direction, working toward the same goal. And, as we continue executing our work in the spirt of partnership and collaboration, we are closer every single day toward achieving enhance pandemic preparedness in the country, and a safer, healthier future for Canadians everywhere.”