MISSISSAUGA, ON, March 19, 2020 - On Wednesday, March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a pandemic in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. This is a serious health situation and we extend our sympathies to all who have lost loved ones, to patients, and healthcare professionals. We recognize that the public and private sectors across the globe need to work together to help effectively manage this quickly evolving situation.

Diagnostic Testing For COVID-19

Roche Canada recognizes that addressing a pandemic of this magnitude requires the contributions of all members of the healthcare ecosystem and community. 

We are currently working with Health Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and provincial public labs to align strategy for available COVID-19 testing solutions, including those provided by Roche, according to the needs of various jurisdictions. We are diligently providing our solutions for COVID-19 testing to laboratories and we are taking the necessary measures to help reduce the level of pandemic impact.

Considering the high demand for this testing globally, we are working with our global supply chain and authorities to ensure that supplies are distributed to provincial laboratories and designated high priority institutions. Roche Canada will continue to follow federal agency and public health laboratory guidelines for direct procurement for these tests. 

Participation in Clinical Research For COVID-19

While there are currently no approved therapeutic options for the treatment of COVID-19, Roche is actively involved in understanding the potential of our existing portfolio. We are pleased to confirm that Canada has been selected as a participant in a Phase III clinical trial studying the safety and efficacy of one of our portfolio medicines in hospitalized adult patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. In addition, Roche is also collecting and compiling data from other, independently-led clinical trials that are taking place around the world.

Roche advocates that people follow the steps outlined by the WHO, the Federal Government of Canada, and the various provincial and regional public health authorities, to take appropriate measures to protect themselves and others from the virus. Roche is working with and supporting the WHO and global and national non-governmental organizations, health authorities and the governments in affected countries to ensure people can get access to diagnostics and healthcare. In order to continue fulfilling this role, Roche has implemented solid business continuity planning. As a healthcare leader, Roche is committed to providing solutions for the world’s most challenging healthcare threats, like this novel coronavirus outbreak.

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