The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic that began in late 2019 and continues as of the writing of this Perspective in summer 2022 has been the cause of both tremendous tragedy—in lives lost and economic hardship—and great triumph in the rapid development of effective vaccines. Many nations around the world have scrambled to respond to a once-in-a-century event that has exposed many weaknesses in response planning and capabilities, including those of the United States. Even as the pandemic continues, it is not too early to reflect on the missteps that have been made and lessons that can be learned so that the United States and nations worldwide can be better prepared for the future.

This volume contains a collection of essays that explores topics of critical importance toward that aim and identifies actions that can be taken to not only improve pandemic preparedness but also help prevent the occurrence of future pandemics. The essays center on U.S. challenges and experiences, but the solutions, in many cases, require collaborative efforts that reach across national boundaries.

Table of Contents

Chapter One

Introduction

Chapter Two

"You Warned Me, but You Did Not Convince Me"

Chapter Three

Outbreaks and Governance: Lessons from Wuhan, China, During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Chapter Four

Reforming Global Pandemic Preparedness and Response Institutions

Chapter Five

Balancing Risks and Benefits from Gain-of-Function Research on Dangerous Pathogens

Chapter Six

Making Biosafety and Biosecurity a Priority

Chapter Seven

Meeting the Medical Supply Needs of the Next Pandemic

Chapter Eight

American Attitudes About Vaccine Globalism

Chapter Nine

Conclusions

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