But such co-operation has never been the way of the world and it won’t happen now. A recent tally counted at least 60 nations imposing export restrictions of medical supplies, prioritizing their own needs over others. Britain banned the export of antimalarial and anti-viral drugs that have lately shown promise in treating COVID-19. In February it commandeered foreign-owned factories that produce masks and medical equipment (while it accepted supplies donated by well-meaning countries like Canada). That, in turn, compromises the World Health Organization data that Canada and other countries have relied upon, which are amassed from China and other countries.

Source: National Post April 06, 2020 13:36 UTC