A Delicate Compromise: A Policy Study of the Canadian Response to Ebola

Abstract

The Canadian response to Ebola has been controversial, yet largely a non-event as no cases of Ebola were declared in the country. This policy study combined a 3-i framework to qualitative directed content analysis to deconstruct the measures taken to prevent the introduction and spread of the virus into the country, and understand how the policy formulation and decision making processes have been influenced by institutions, actors' interests and ideas. Three main themes, cross-cut by those variables, emerged from the study: public health federalism, legacy of previous emergencies, and the extraordinary nature of the West African Ebola outbreak. Torn between their capacities, their mandate and their obligation for accountability, Canadian institutions enacted a compromised response plan. This paper elaborates on the multiple consequences of the measures taken and argues that a discussion is needed on the values that shall guide public health emergency preparedness and response.