Preparing for the next pandemic

The year before the U.S. became a global hot spot for COVID-19, it was ranked as the best prepared nation to handle a pandemic, according to the Global Health Security Index.

As the virus rapidly spread throughout the globe, however, the U.S. had some of the world’s worst outcomes.

The nation has confirmed more than 30 million cases — more than any other country and over twice as many cases as Brazil, which is currently ranked second. The U.S. also has over 547,000 COVID-19 related deaths, which is the highest of any nation, despite ranking third in population. And in deaths per capita, the U.S. ranks fourth, behind the Czech Republic, Hungary and Italy. 

Vaccine development and distribution has been critical in helping the nation turn the corner, as roughly 2.5 million Americans are now being vaccinated every day.

Two physicians spoke with host Kerri Miller on Monday about what they’ve learned during this pandemic and how the country can be better prepared for the next one.

Guests:

• Dr. Nasia Safdar is medical director of infection control with UW Health in Madison, Wisc. 

• Dr. Celine Gounder is a clinical assistant professor at the NYU School of Medicine and treats patients at Bellevue Hospital. She is the founder and CEO of Just Human Productions and also served as a COVID-19 adviser to the Biden-Harris administration.

Use the audio player above to listen to the program.

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