What the Coronavirus Means for the Pharma Industry

There’s been a lot of commotion over the new coronavirus (2019-nCOV) on the news, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been quick to respond. However, the government organization has not yet pinpointed any diagnostics, vaccines, or drugs for the treatment and prevention of the new virus.

The number of infected patients is difficult to pin down at this time, but current estimates go well into the tens of thousands and are rising as a result of changes in testing methodology. Modern doctors fear the virus’s spread overseas as well.

While we’re not sure about future developments regarding the epidemic, we do know that the proper preparations can make the difference. The safety of ourselves and our loved ones goes first. Secondarily, many industries, including travel and pharmaceutical, must prepare for the consequences.

Lack of Blood

The blood supply may take a hit as more patients may require blood transfusions. Expect severe shortages in the following months.

Lower Attendance Rates for Conferences

Collaboration is key in the business world. Medical research depends on the assembly of industry professionals sharing and critiquing research. However, the coronavirus raises the risk of these large, physical meetups. The Mobile World Congress in Barcelona’s recent cancellation due to the virus illustrates how immense this issue may become.

Problems for Regulation

The FDA has experienced a heightened responsibility to deal with the crisis. For example, the organization has paid extra attention to foreign travelers on international flights. The outbreak will likely reduce the FDA’s ability to respond effectively, and the approval of new medicines may come more slowly than before.

Reduced API

API stands for active pharmaceutical ingredients. These vital components to the production of medicine largely come from China, and the virus will likely affect individuals using any type of medication, whether to treat diabetes, infections or other problems.

Disruption of Manufacturing

While APIs can come from a variety of sources, another issue is that a virus outbreak can make it difficult for individuals to go to work. This impact can potentially slow down the production of medicine further.

How You Can Prepare

Preparations for the coronavirus do not differ from those of other high-profile diseases. The Avian flu outbreak nearly two decades earlier called for similar extensive planning from the industry.

Pharmaceutical companies need to take the right steps to minimize the consequences of the coronavirus outbreak. Staff education is one of the best steps you can take to do so. 

The Center for Professional Innovation and Education (CfPIE) offers courses on Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) at can help your business thrive despite the new virus.

Have questions about the pharmaceutical training courses we offer? Please contact the CfPIE team today at 1-610-648-7550 or [email protected] if you have any questions at all about the courses we offer.