It is time for governments, with a degree of humility, to conduct a comprehensive, independent review intended to ensure that we are better prepared for the next pandemic.

As the worst effects of the COVID-19 pandemic recede, there are some candid admissions by public health officials that their performance failed the test. Widespread skepticism about the efficacy of vaccines, mandates, lockdowns and masks has sapped public trust in the credibility of public health officials. Once lost, public trust is hard to regain.

In the United States, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acknowledged that it “did not reliably meet expectations” — a profound understatement. Although CDC Director Rochelle Walensky stated that the goal was “accountability, collaboration, communications and timeliness,” her review acknowledged failure on each aspect.

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