Another Pandemic Is ‘Absolutely Inevitable,’ Says Patrick Vallance
Sir Patrick Vallance, the former chief scientific adviser to the UK government, has warned that another pandemic is “absolutely inevitable” and stressed the need for the incoming British government to prioritize preparedness, stating, “we are not ready yet.”
At a panel event during the Hay Festival in Powys, Vallance emphasized the importance of the upcoming election, noting that it provides an opportunity to address critical issues. He highlighted the necessity for the next government to enhance surveillance systems to detect potential pandemics early.
Reflecting on his 2021 address to G7 leaders, Vallance reiterated the need for quicker development and deployment of diagnostic tests, vaccines, and treatments to avoid the extreme measures seen during the Covid-19 pandemic. These improvements are feasible but require better coordination, he noted.
By 2023, Vallance observed, the G7 seemed to have “sort of forgotten” his earlier recommendations. He urged that pandemic preparedness be maintained consistently, akin to the military’s constant state of readiness. “We need to treat this preparedness in the same way and not view it as an easy thing to keep cutting back when there’s no sign of a pandemic,” he said.
Vallance pointed to the World Health Organization’s proposed pandemic accord as a positive step, encouraging international cooperation on pandemic preparedness. However, he expressed concern that the issue lacks sufficient focus and risks being sidelined on G7 and G20 agendas, which would leave the world vulnerable to future pandemics.
He also criticized the inefficiency of current inquiry processes and called for improved methods. Despite advocating for the election, Vallance commended the outgoing government’s anti-smoking bill, expressing disappointment that it would not pass before the election but urging its quick adoption afterward.
Regarding protests, Vallance supported the right to demonstrate, describing it as “part of our democracy.” He criticized Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s team for failing to find a better location for his speech amid protests, calling it a “sign of incompetence.” However, Vallance condemned acts of vandalism, such as when paint was thrown over an exhibition at the Natural History Museum, where he serves as chair. He also denounced a recent attempt by Just Stop Oil protesters to damage the Magna Carta.
