In this episode of the RCP Medicine podcast, Dr Rohan Mehra, an Infectious Diseases and Microbiology registrar with an interest in conflict and catastrophe medicine, delves into the critical issue of pandemic preparedness. As we reflect on the challenges faced during the COVID-19, and other pandemics, the question remains: how ready are we for the next inevitable outbreak? Joining Dr. Mehra is Professor Tom Solomon, a leading expert with nearly three decades of experience in emerging infections.  

Professor Solomon is the Professor of Neurological Science and Head of the Brain Infections Group at the University of Liverpool. He led the University of Liverpool’s Institute of Infection and Global Health and founded the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections. His work has been pivotal in responding to Ebola, Zika, COVID-19, and mpox (formerly monkeypox).

As Director of The Pandemic Institute in Liverpool and Vice President (International) of the Academy of Medical Sciences, Professor Solomon is a leading expert in pandemic preparedness. He also engages with the public through his media appearances and the Scouse Science Podcast.

Together, they explore the lessons learned from past pandemics and discuss what needs to be done to safeguard our future.

Links and resources:

The pandemic institute

https://www.thepandemicinstitute.org/

The WHO pandemic hub

https://pandemichub.who.int/ 

CEPI (coalition for epidemic preparedness Innovations) 

https://cepi.net/ 

Music: bensound.com