I’m a virologist – this is what I fear most about the next pandemic

The Covid Inquiry has ruled that due to Boris Johnson’s lack of leadership during the pandemic, the first lockdown was introduced too late – which contributed to the loss of 23,000 lives. Baroness Hallett’s report also criticises the Department of Health for “misleading” Downing Street that the UK was well-prepared for a pandemic.

As a virologist, I know how important the findings of this inquiry really are. In calling out the “acts and omissions” by people like then-Prime Minister Johnson, the report delivers accountability for decisions made, plus justice and acknowledgement for those who were lost and bereaved. It also has the potential to drive policy change and guidance for future pandemic preparedness.

It was only five years ago, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, that we