The key lesson from past disease outbreaks—as well as COVID-19—is that “we can do better,” according to Epidemics That Didn’t Happen, a report released earlier this week that highlights effective strategies for preventing the next pandemic.
Looking at eight case studies from recent epidemics, or near-epidemics, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, the report identifies good practices in reacting to outbreaks, including yellow fever in Brazil, Ebola in Uganda, and COVID-19 in countries like Mongolia, Senegal, and Vietnam.
“Stronger preparedness systems by traditional metrics” often failed against COVID-19. “Key factors not captured in traditional metrics of epidemic preparedness—strong and timely policies, good communication, and quality of governance—were decisive.”
What’s needed: “modest investments, improved health systems, and better coordination and communication by determined leaders,” who must:
- prioritize and sustain investment in countries’ ability to prepare and respond;
- recognize and follow successful examples from countries around the world; and,
- prioritize early warning and response systems.
BIO’s Dr. Michelle McMurry-Heath recently said we need to incentivize R&D, boost domestic manufacturing capabilities, and expand support for biotechnologies that can help—read more.
Above all, we need to work together and acknowledge “the reality that we are all connected,” according to the report—which is why BIO continues to advocate for investment in pandemic preparedness and One Health collaboration to stop the next disease outbreak.
More Health Care News:
Reuters: Pfizer begins exporting U.S.-made COVID-19 vaccine to Mexico
“Pfizer has shipped more than 10 million doses to Mexico so far, becoming its largest supplier of COVID-19 vaccine.”
