Alberta doctors, scientists say COVID-19 response report should be dismissed
Dozens of Alberta scientists, doctors, and researchers have come together to voice their concerns over the recommendations outlined in the Alberta government’s pandemic response report. In an open letter, experts in infectious disease, pediatrics, virology, and immunology are urging the government to reject the report, citing inaccuracies and misrepresentation of scientific evidence.
The $2-million task force report, published on the government’s website, has faced criticism from various groups, including the Alberta Medical Association, who have described it as “anti-science” and “anti-evidence.” Among the recommendations in the report are suggestions to prevent healthy children and teens from receiving COVID-19 vaccines and to halt the use of vaccines altogether without full disclosure of potential risks.
The signatories of the open letter argue that the task force has cherry-picked data to support a specific narrative and has misrepresented the body of evidence relating to vaccines. They emphasize that vaccines remain the best defense against COVID-19, as they are effective in preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and death, as well as the risk of long-term complications such as MIS-C in children.
Infectious disease researcher Craig Jenne, who holds a PhD in immunology, expresses his concern over the misleading information presented in the report and the potential dangers it poses. He points out that the data used in the report appears to be flawed and selected to fit a particular agenda.
Pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. Cora Constantinescu, who has treated children with COVID-19, stresses the importance of protecting children’s health. She is troubled by the absence of pediatric specialists as contributors to the task force report and worries that misinformation could lead to fewer children receiving necessary protection.
Premier Danielle Smith responded to the criticisms, stating that the government will consider the diverse perspectives presented in the report before making any decisions. She emphasizes the importance of listening to all voices in discussions about science and making assessments based on evolving evidence.
Despite the backlash, MLA Eric Bouchard has called for swift action to pause access to COVID-19 vaccines for children, echoing the sentiments of the task force report. The report itself was reissued with corrections after a contributor’s name was mistakenly included.
The authors of the open letter urge the government to consider the recommendations of reputable health organizations, such as Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada, which consistently affirm the safety and efficacy of vaccines. They emphasize the need for comprehensive and evidence-based reports to guide government decisions during the ongoing pandemic.
