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The Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), based at the University of Saskatchewan, has signed a new partnership agreement with a European pathogen research network.
The agreement between VIDEO and the European Research Infrastructure on Highly Pathogenic Agents (ERINHA) – a federation of high-containment labs and research institutes across the continent working to advance vaccines, diagnostics and treatments for infectious diseases including Ebola – was signed in Paris and witnessed by Premier Scott Moe, who is currently overseas on a trade mission.
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The university said VIDO will serve as the network’s North American hub as the groups work to improve vaccines and address threats posed by infectious diseases.
“The partnership will support work on infectious disease threats that can affect human and animal health, food security, and economies around the world, underscoring the value of trusted networks in preparing for health challenges that do not stop at borders,” the university said in a statement.
“Through the partnership, VIDO will contribute integrated vaccine manufacturing capacity, high-containment research, large-animal model expertise, and training and exchange opportunities to the ERINHA network.”
Dr. Volker Gerdts, VIDO’s director and CEO, said the agreement reflects the organization’s commitment to working with international partners to protect the health of both humans and animals.
“By joining the ERINHA network, VIDO will help strengthen global pandemic preparedness, food security, and biodefence while advancing Canada’s role in developing vaccines, diagnostics, and other solutions for high-consequence infectious diseases,” Gerdts said in a statement.
“We are proud to bring Saskatchewan science to this important international partnership.”
Dr. Jonathan Ewbank, ERINHA’s director general, said global preparedness hinges on international partnerships and access to the best scientific expertise from around the world. He said his network is pleased to welcome VIDO as a new hub.
“This agreement will help advance the collaborative science needed to better understand and respond to emerging infectious disease threats,” Ewbank said, quoted in a statement from the University of Saskatchewan.
“We know that we can count on Canadian partners!”
Moe said it’s good to see Saskatchewan building strong partnerships with other nations, which he said showcase the province’s advancements in research and innovation.
“This agreement highlights the global impact being made right here in Saskatchewan and reinforces our province’s role in advancing solutions that protect people, animals, and food systems around the world,” Moe said, quoted in the university’s statement.
