Are We Ready for the Next Pandemic? A Global Vision

[This document is one of a series of discussion notes addressing fundamental questions about global health. Its purpose is to transfer scientific knowledge into the public conversation and decision-making process. The papers are based on the best information available and may be updated as new information comes to light.]

A new highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 might have the potential to spread among mammals. This is highly concerning news, and positions it at the forefront of potential causes of the next pandemic.

While regional and national initiatives are important and play a crucial role in pandemic preparedness and response, it will be of little use to be one of the best-prepared countries for a pandemic if a respiratory virus is rampant in neighbouring countries or in a country like the United States where millions of residents travel abroad each year. We need effective international coordination if we are to prevent a repetition of the losses sustained during COVID-19.

In this new ISGlobal policy brief, Elizabeth Diago-Navarro and Clara Marín-Carballo explain why the risk of pandemics is increasing, what the next one could look like, which viruses could cause it, and what mechanisms exist today to deal with it.

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