Ottawa – Theresa Tam, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, has said: Vaccination is a foundation of public health practice, but we haven’t taken full advantage of its potential to tackle existing and emerging public health threats. Gaps in vaccination access and uptake in Canada, fueled in part by the spread of mis- and disinformation, have led to an increase in vaccine-preventable outbreaks, such as measles and pertussis. Some populations also face disproportionate barriers to vaccination such as those living in rural and remote areas, individuals who have difficulties connecting with health services, or those who have experienced stigma in the health system. The public health system must be prepared to take advantage of scientific breakthroughs in vaccine technology. In the coming years, new vaccines will have the potential to address an expanding range of health threats, including the treatment of chronic diseases, cancers, and anti-microbial resistant pathogens. New ways to administer vaccines are also emerging, such as nasal vaccines and microneedle patches, that could help improve the vaccination experience, enhancing the acceptability and accessibility of vaccines. This is why we must strive to create the conditions for everyone in Canada to experience the full benefits of vaccination at every stage of life.
