The emergence of viruses: are we prepared for the next pandemic?

This presentation aims to analyze the causes and consequences of emerging viruses and our ability to cope with future pandemics. It will define what an emerging virus is and its relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the central question of the presentation will be posed:

Are we prepared for the next pandemic?

The development will explain how viruses emerge and spread, and will analyze the most recent cases, such as SARS, MERS, Denge, COVID-19, and especially H5N1 (avian flu). The measures taken to face the COVID-19 pandemic and their effectiveness will be discussed, as well as the lessons learned and the preparation for future pandemics.

Possible strategies to prevent and control future pandemics will also be addressed, including animal health monitoring, vaccine and treatment research, epidemiological surveillance and public health systems preparedness, giving as an example what measures are being taken with respect to the possible threat of H5N1.

In summary, the presentation will address the problem of emerging viruses and the need to be prepared for future pandemics, ranging from their origin and propagation, to possible strategies to prevent and control their spread, and emphasizing the importance of collaboration and collective action.

Speaker:

Dr. Isabel Solá Gurpegui, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CSIC-UAMC) and co-director of the coronavirus group at that institution.