While the COVID-19 pandemic has advanced areas including vaccine science and global strategies on reduction of transmission of virus, it has similarly exposed inherent structural deficiencies such as vaccine inequality and mismanagement by governments. As wildlife consumption returns in parts of Asia, the threat of outbreaks similar to COVID-19 remains. Climate change and deforestation have increased contact between animals and humans, increasing the risk. While the end of the COVID-19 pandemic looks near in sight, is the world prepared for future outbreaks? Have we learnt our lessons or will we repeat our mistakes? Associate Professor Alex Cook, Vice Dean (Research), weighs in on Insight, Channel NewsAsia.
