Five years after the COVID-19 pandemic declared a global health emergency, concerns arise about the United States’ preparedness for future disasters. Key provisions of a pandemic preparedness law expired in September 2023, and lawmakers have yet to reauthorize them.
Experts say that despite improvements in data-sharing and public awareness, the country has not fully learned key lessons from COVID-19. Measles outbreaks, avian influenza, and vaccine hesitancy continue to pose threats. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Health and Human Services Department made sweeping changes to health agencies, including firing employees or offering buyouts.
Critics argue that canceling critical meetings and cutting grants related to mRNA vaccines hindered the response. Jerome Adams, a former surgeon general, emphasized the need for data sharing and coordination during emergencies. Jeffrey Kerby, chair of the Committee on Trauma at the American College of Surgeons, advocated for maintaining resources for medical operations coordinating centers.
Chrissie Juliano, executive director of Big Cities Health Coalition, pointed out that public health institutions face misinformation and disinformation challenges. She stressed the importance of prioritizing funding for the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program when reauthorizing the legislation.
Experts and lawmakers must prioritize preparedness to prevent similar mistakes in the future. The US government’s inability to reauthorize key provisions raises concerns about its readiness to respond to emerging health threats.
Source: https://rollcall.com/2025/03/13/on-covid-19-anniversary-concerns-about-the-lessons-unlearned