Statement 6 February 2023

Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework (EB152)

By IFPMA

On 6 February 2023, IFPMA attended the 152nd session of the Executive Board at the World Health Organization in Geneva. IFPMA delivered a statement for the agenda item related to the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework.

As a long-standing partner of the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework, industry is highly concerned about the recommendation by the PIP Advisory Group to the WHO DG to expand the Framework to include seasonal influenza viruses and to take this discussion to Member States. Industry strongly opposes this expansion as it would 1) not help improve influenza pandemic preparedness and response nor strengthen the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), the main mandate of PIP, 2) not effectively address the access- and benefit-sharing (ABS) challenges it aims to improve, and 3) negatively impact rapid development, manufacturing, and delivery of seasonal influenza vaccines. Moreover, this would mean a third negotiation process in parallel to the INB and IHR discussions.

Industry also notes the PIP Framework should not be considered an ABS model for the Pandemic Accord as its transactional nature, among others, is not fit-for-purpose for rapid pandemic response.

About IFPMA

The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) represents over 90 innovative pharmaceutical companies and associations around the world. Our industry’s almost three million employees discover, develop, and deliver medicines and vaccines that advance global health. Based in Geneva, IFPMA has official relations with the United Nations and contributes industry expertise to help the global health community improve the lives of people everywhere. For more information, visit ifpma.org.

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