Five years after the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the world continues to evaluate its preparedness and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. From scientific breakthroughs to policy shortcomings, experts are analyzing what went right, what went wrong, and how we can better prepare for future health crises. One of these experts that has recently been featured in multiple items is our Scientific Director Marion Koopmans.

The BBC’s Science in Action has released a two-part special podcast series examining the five years of Covid period. In the first episode, the podcast explores how well science was prepared for the pandemic and whether we are now better equipped to deal with future outbreaks. Marion Koopmans is one of the featured experts on this podcast series.

Additionally, in a recent interview with EenVandaag, Koopmans also highlights the importance of national preparedness when reflecting back on five years of Covid. She urges governments to establish stronger surveillance systems, invest in research, and create a pandemic response team that can act swiftly during new outbreaks. Koopmans stresses the importance of learning from the mistakes of the past five years to ensure better responses in the future.

Listen to the full podcast here: BBC World Service – Science In Action, Five years of Covid: Part one

Read the full EenVandaag item (Dutch) here: Nieuwe pandemie 5 jaar na corona? Zou volgende maand al kunnen, volgens viroloog Marion Koopmans – EenVandaag