Learning from the pandemic

The retrospective report Technical report on the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/technical-report-on-the-covid-19-pandemic-in-the-uk https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/technical-report-on-the-covid-19-pandemic-in-the-uk/list-of-chapters-authors-reviewers-and-contributors Baroness Hallett, independent public enquiry https://covid19.public-inquiry.uk Set up to look at the pandemic https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9eFdKVwD1ARs3j9BSoGndw Online form launched 16th November https://share.covid19.public-inquiry.uk/s/your-experience Chapter 1, Section 6 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/technical-report-on-the-covid-19-pandemic-in-the-uk/chapter-1-understanding-the-pathogen What was the duration of, naturally acquired immunity, and vaccine acquired immunity, and the risk of reinfection over time? By early 2020 Data emerged indicating that the majority of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 displayed an antibody response between 10 to 14 days after symptom onset Throughout the first half of 2021 Following natural infection Antibody detectable in saliva for at least 8 months, and in blood for at least 9 months. The presence of antibody, associated with a protective effect against infection, at least 7 to 10 months Cell-mediated immune response to SARS-CoV-2 was shown to be detectable up to 8 months after infection Reflections and advice for a future CMO or GCSA (for Chapter 1) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/technical-report-on-the-covid-19-pandemic-in-the-uk/chapter-1-understanding-the-pathogen#questions-on-the-disease Point 1 Scientific and medical advice will often need to be formulated on the basis of limited data. Point 2 Understanding the pathogen and the disease was a global effort, particularly at the outset, and sharing data and expertise from the beginning was key. Point 3 Gaining a clear understanding of the pathogen and the disease required an array of cross-disciplinary studies to be initiated quickly. Point 4 Building on and adapting existing research systems and networks was usually much faster than setting up new systems, but strong leadership, direction and coordination are required. Point 5 Viral variants, population behaviours and population immunity changed significantly over time requiring continuation of studies. Not mentioned State secrecy needs to be eliminated, early, open sharing of all science. No more cover ups Dangerous gain of function research should stop Procurements should be on the basis of clinical and scientific need, not commercial interests Powerful international corporations should not be allowed to influence the agenda All pharmaceuticals should be considered, rather than just expensive ones Powerful international corporations and individuals should not be allowed to control public communications Early scientific peer review must be allowed and encouraged, based on fully disclosed primary data Primary anonymised data from clinical trials must be made public for the worlds clever people to process Scientists and doctors with ‘outlying views’ should be judged on the quality of the evidence they present Play the ball Further comments Britain a 'prolonged period' of excess deaths but not from coronavirus itself Heart disease and cancer, stayed away or could not access treatment