The coronavirus pandemic has been devastating for the world, killing millions, overwhelming healthcare systems, and disrupting societies and economies. While a wide range of scientific advances and social responses have contributed to curbing the virus’s spread, there remains much work to do to make the world safer from — and more equitable in response to — future pandemics.
From school closures to devastated industries and the loss of 255 million working days, the economic impact of covid-19 is widespread. But it’s especially acute in lower- and middle-income countries that are less able to withstand shocks, and where the most vulnerable populations live.
With the right support, people can return to their jobs and businesses. But without urgent action, the pandemic will continue to steal lives and livelihoods, deepen inequalities everywhere, and undermine progress on global poverty, clean energy and more. We’re calling on governments, businesses, scientists and philanthropies, including Wellcome, to help us get lifesaving tests, treatments and vaccines from the lab to the front lines as quickly as possible. Together we can stop the pandemic from becoming a permanent stain on humanity’s legacy.