The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have called for an intensified global effort to advance research in preparation for future pandemics. This appeal was made at the Global Pandemic Preparedness Summit 2024 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
CEPI and WHO emphasized the need for a broader research approach that includes not only individual pathogens but also entire pathogen families. This strategy advocates for the use of prototype pathogens as models to build a comprehensive knowledge base about related pathogens, regardless of their immediate pandemic risk. Such an approach aims to develop tools and countermeasures that can be quickly adapted to emerging threats.
The WHO R&D Blueprint for Epidemics report highlighted the necessity of expanding research efforts to cover less-studied pathogens and regions, particularly those with high biodiversity but limited resources. This includes areas where novel pathogens may exist but lack the infrastructure for thorough research. The report used the analogy of scientists searching for lost keys to illustrate the need for broader research; by studying prototype pathogens, researchers can illuminate previously unknown areas of potential risk.
Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEO of CEPI, expressed strong support for WHO’s scientific framework, noting its potential to improve global preparedness by focusing on entire pathogen families. The framework aims to enhance the world’s capability to respond swiftly to unforeseen variants, emerging pathogens, and zoonotic spillovers.
The report, developed by over 200 scientists from more than 50 countries, evaluated 28 virus families and one core group of bacteria, analyzing their epidemic and pandemic risks based on factors such as transmission patterns and the availability of diagnostics and treatments.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, underscored the need for combined scientific and political efforts to prepare for the next pandemic. To support this initiative, WHO is establishing Collaborative Open Research Consortia (CORCs) for each pathogen family, which will involve global researchers and stakeholders to foster greater collaboration and equitable participation.
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