161 options to cut the risk of future pandemics of animal origins

In 10 Seconds? There is an ongoing debate – despite the current scientific evidence – about the origins of the current pandemic but Covid-19 is a good reminder of how animals often can be human-infecting pathogen sources. Researchers have now developed a list of options to minimise such risks.

Why do we need to act? 2020 made humanity yet again sit up and listen to species-jumping microbes and think about how to avoid future pandemics. We had to balance the possibility of mass deaths and healthcare system collapse with crippling lockdowns that threatened livelihoods, social connections, and physical and mental health. The experience shows the importance of prevention. So, a research team has analysed risk factors of emerging pathogens and developed 161 possible options to reduce pandemic risk.