INSIS Featured on ICI Radio-Canada: Advancing Vaccine Safety Research
We’re thrilled to announce that in January 2024, the International Network of Immunization Special Services (INSIS) was spotlighted on ICI Radio-Canada, CBC’s national French-language television network. This coverage highlighted the groundbreaking work INSIS is leading in vaccine safety and development.
Tackling Very Rare Vaccine Side Effects
INSIS, a global consortium based at the University of Alberta, is investigating the rare adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines. With support from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and $15.3 million in funding, INSIS aims to uncover how vaccines might trigger these side effects and to develop solutions that pave the way for safer vaccines in the future.
A “very rare” adverse reaction affects less than 0.001% of the population. These events are often detected only after vaccines are distributed widely, as clinical trials cannot capture the full diversity of health conditions and genetic backgrounds present in large populations. INSIS is leveraging international data to compare cases of these side effects, offering insights to improve vaccine design and safety.
Why Vaccine Safety is Crucial
Dr. Karina Top, co-leader of the project and a professor at the University of Alberta, emphasized the importance of vaccine safety:
“The safety bar for vaccines is very high because we give them to healthy people so they don’t get sick. We don’t want very rare side effects to happen, so we need to understand why they occur and how to prevent them.”
This research aligns with the ambitious 100-day mission to accelerate vaccine development against emerging pathogens—a vital goal for future pandemic preparedness.
The Broader Impact of Vaccines
Vaccines have historically been powerful tools in combating infectious diseases. INSIS underscores their importance, noting they save 2–3 million children annually and have eradicated deadly illnesses like smallpox. During the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines proved even more impactful, saving an estimated 20 million lives globally.
A Spotlight on Innovation
INSIS’s appearance on ICI Radio-Canada brings well-deserved attention to the team’s innovative work. By addressing the challenges of very rare side effects, INSIS is not only enhancing vaccine safety but also reinforcing public trust in these life-saving interventions.
This recognition highlights the critical role that global collaboration and cutting-edge research play in safeguarding health worldwide. We’re incredibly proud to see INSIS receive this acknowledgment for their contributions to vaccine safety and pandemic preparedness.
To read the full article, visit: ICI Radio-Canada.
