Vaccine disinformation is not new. We've seen anti-vax types of information and disinformation sown in communities for other health threats, and this does lead to loss of life and to great suffering. Many of you have met Jill Promoli in your travels as MPs. She's the woman who lost her very young child to influenza, and she has been advocating for years for people to be immunized against the flu. When you hear the stories, you realize this is not specific to COVID-19.
Of course, these vaccines were developed in record time, and it's really a testament to the coordinated will and determination of science and researchers working together on a common goal. It's important that Canadians have access to and are pointed to credible sources. I always say to people who are hesitant or unsure that the best source of information for them is a personal health care provider, if they have one. Then of course there are health care websites that are government run and credentialed as such.
Part of it is our responsibility as leaders to make sure we're pointing the people who trust us in the right direction and that we're not giving messages that are meant to sow division. Rather, we should give people access to accurate information so they can make the best decision for themselves with a foundation of credible information. It isn't about trying to force people to accept vaccinations; it's about making sure they have the right information and credible information.
I'll end with this, MP Kelloway, because it's important. The risk from COVID-19 far outstrips any risk from vaccination. We know this. If you allow it, MP Kelloway and Chair, I'd love for Dr. Sharma to talk a bit about the technical end of what goes on at Health Canada to make sure these vaccines are indeed safe.