Canada’s top scientific advisor suggests that the Canadian government should conduct a thorough evaluation of its handling of the COVID-19 crisis to enhance the nation’s readiness for future health emergencies. Mona Nemer emphasized the importance of acknowledging people’s feelings and experiences related to the pandemic, including those who have suffered loss or faced economic challenges.
Nemer, an independent consultant, stressed the need for a non-political and focused review process to address specific questions efficiently. She highlighted the importance of providing context for discussions, such as the benefits of vaccines in saving lives, to ensure a constructive reflection that prepares the country and its citizens for upcoming health threats.
The discussion comes as Conservative MP Dean Allison plans an inquiry in September focusing on individuals allegedly affected by COVID-19 vaccines. Nemer expressed concerns about decreasing trust in government and science, emphasizing the importance of addressing public concerns transparently.
Additionally, Nemer raised alarm about the global response to diseases like Ebola, citing delays in diagnostic readiness that hindered containment efforts. She urged for pandemic preparedness to be integrated into routine health services and emphasized the ongoing need for vigilance against emerging health threats beyond COVID-19.
Nemer highlighted the importance of building public trust during peacetime to navigate future crises effectively. She emphasized the lessons learned from the pandemic and the continuous need for preparedness to mitigate the impact of future health emergencies.
(Photo Credit: Sean Kilpatrick/The Canadian Press)
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/covid-19-response-canada-reflect-inquiry-dean-allison-chief-science-adviser-mona-nemer-9.7300026)