Winter is coming.

And with the threat of the ‘twindemic’ (Covid-19 infections plus ‘Flu) looming large over the struggling health service, a Cork MEP is on the hunt for solutions.

Ireland South MEP Deidre Clune is consulting international experts about the continuing fight against Covid-19.

As a member of the European Parliament’s Special Committee on the pandemic, Clune is attending meetings at the European Medicines Agency in Amsterdam and the vaccine manufacturer BioNTech in Germany.

“This fact-finding mission will be key to the Committee’s task of analysing the EU’s response to the crisis and learning lessons for the future.” said MEP Clune.

“We have travelled to EMA’s headquarters to quiz management and staff, including Executive Director Emer Cooke, about their role in the development, evaluation, approval and monitoring of Covid-19 vaccines.”

The delegation will also study the manufacturing process of mRNA vaccines, at the BioNTech laboratories in Mainz.

This information will feed into the work to enhance response mechanisms, address supply issues, and ensure Europe is better prepared for any future health crises.

“While the worst of the pandemic appears to be over, we cannot afford to become complacent.” MEP Clune added.

“The EU has recently approved two new updated Covid-19 vaccines, and I would urge everyone to take up their latest vaccine or booster offer so they are best protected ahead of the winter months.”