Coronavirus outbreak might lead to problems for Europe’s medicines supply

At this moment, the novel coronavirus outbreak isn’t causing problems for Europe’s medicines supply. But that’s almost certain to change, industry experts warn — and at the worst possible time according to POLITICO.

“Were this epidemic to develop into a global pandemic, most countries will face shortages of essential medicines at a time where they would need them the most,” warned the European Fine Chemicals Group, which represents manufacturers of active ingredients in medicines’, the report adds.

What’s the reason behind such concern? 

While Europe is one of the world’s top manufacturers of drugs, the raw ingredients often come from China or India. This dependence on Asia was already a source of alarm at the EU’s highest political levels, with shortages and impurities prompting calls for action in both Brussels and national capitals.

The European Medicines Agency hasn’t received any reports of supply disruptions, a spokesperson said, echoing reports from trade associations for both innovative medicines manufacturers and those who make cheaper, generic versions.

Via POLITICO