.jpg)
The Next Pandemic: A $2.5 Billion Plan to Slash Response Time to 100 Days
The world learned a harsh lesson during the COVID-19 pandemic: preparedness is paramount. Now, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) is launching a bold five-year strategy, CEPI 3.0, aiming to dramatically reduce the time it takes to develop vaccines against future threats – down to just 100 days. This ambitious plan requires a $2.5 billion investment, building on the $1.1 billion already secured.
The High Cost of Inaction
The risk of another devastating pandemic is significant. Research indicates that future pandemics could cost the global economy over $700 billion annually. The COVID-19 pandemic itself underscored the devastating impact of being unprepared, with estimates suggesting more than 8 million lives could have been saved had vaccines been available within 100 days of the virus’s identification.
CEPI 3.0: Three Pillars of Pandemic Defense
CEPI 3.0 focuses on three interconnected priorities to accelerate and equitably distribute protection against epidemic and pandemic threats:
Developing Vaccines for Known and Emerging Threats
CEPI will prioritize developing response-ready vaccines for pathogens like Lassa, Nipah, and Rift Valley fever. Simultaneously, the organization will invest in research to understand viral families identified by the World Health Organization as potential sources of Public Health Emergencies of International Concern (PHEIC) or pandemics. This proactive approach aims to provide a crucial headstart in responding to newly emerging viruses.
Rapid-Response Platforms for Swift Vaccine Production
A key component of CEPI 3.0 is accelerating the development of platform technologies. These platforms will be embedded with regional manufacturers, enabling countries to quickly develop and produce vaccines during outbreaks. Collaboration with regulators will ensure they have the necessary data to facilitate rapid regulatory assessment of candidate vaccines. This approach aims to improve equity by enabling faster vaccine access globally.
Strengthening Global Networks for a Coordinated Response
CEPI will connect, strengthen, and rigorously test its global scientific networks to ensure a seamless response at every stage of an emergency – from initial research and development to manufacturing. The plan includes securing access to 1-2 billion doses of regional manufacturing capacity to enable a speedy and equitable outbreak response.
Africa at the Forefront of Pandemic Preparedness
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) recognizes the transformative potential of CEPI’s 100 Days Mission. Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, highlighted CEPI’s role as a global R&D champion and emphasized the partnership’s contribution to strengthening Africa’s surveillance capacity and vaccine development infrastructure.
CEPI’s Track Record: A Foundation for the Future
In less than a decade, CEPI has develop into a central player in global health security. The organization has supported over 50 vaccine candidates and 25 platform investments, co-led COVAX to deliver nearly 2 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses, and contributed to scientific breakthroughs for numerous pathogens, all while prioritizing equity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is CEPI’s 100 Days Mission? CEPI aims to develop safe, effective, and accessible vaccines against a virus with pandemic potential in as little as 100 days.
- How much funding does CEPI need for CEPI 3.0? CEPI requires a total of $3.6 billion, with $2.5 billion still needed.
- What types of pathogens is CEPI focusing on? CEPI is prioritizing vaccines for known threats like Lassa, Nipah, and Rift Valley fever, as well as preparing for emerging viral threats.
Did you know? Had vaccines been available 100 days after the identification of COVID-19, more than 8 million lives could have been saved.
Pro Tip: Investing in pandemic preparedness isn’t just a public health imperative; it’s a sound economic strategy. The cost of preparation pales in comparison to the economic devastation caused by a widespread pandemic.
Learn more about CEPI’s work and the CEPI 3.0 Investment Case here.
What steps do you think are most crucial for pandemic preparedness? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
