March of Dimes Canada is proud to present the Jonas Salk Award to Dr. Janet McElhaney, Scientific Director of Health Sciences North Research Institute in Sudbury. 

Dr. McElhaney is being recognized for her seminal research on aging and the immune system. She coined the term “vaccine-preventable disability” to describe using immunization as a tool to reduce age-related frailty. Her work is particularly relevant as we all recognize the value of vaccines during the pandemic. Using vaccines to prevent disability rather than disease is a fascinating idea. 

The $10,000 Jonas Salk Award recognizes a physician, scientist or researcher who's made an extraordinary contribution toward preventing, alleviating or eliminating a disability. It has been presented every year since 1994. 

Congratulations, Dr. McElhaney!