Medical Countermeasure Product Development - Alternatives Paper

摘要

Chemical Biological and Radiological (CBR) threats, emerging infectious diseases and pandemics pose an imminent, real and serious danger to Australia's healthcare, economy and national security. In order to respond and have an all-hazard preparedness approach to these threats, Medical Countermeasures (MedCMs) are required. MedCMs can include drugs, vaccines and diagnostics (devices and materials). Currently, there exists a dependence on non-Australian sources for MedCM products however there is no assurance that these products will be available in a time of need. Alternative solutions must be considered and developed. This paper provides a strategy focused on exploring affordable and integrated capability to acquire (by development or purchase) MedCM products for Australia.