Preventing the Next Pandemic

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Modern diseases and viruses have surged due to war, conflict, urbanization, climate change, and a growing anti-science sentiment. These twenty-first-century challenges have eroded previous global health advancements, leading to increases in vaccine-preventable and neglected diseases in regions like the Arabian Peninsula, Venezuela, parts of Africa, and the Gulf Coast of the United States. International vaccine scientist Peter J. Hotez, MD, PhD, emphasizes the necessity of vaccine diplomacy to combat this evolving landscape of disease. Drawing from his extensive experience in vaccine development and global partnerships, Hotez highlights the legacy of Dr. Albert Sabin and his efforts to redirect vaccine diplomacy toward emerging health threats. His tenure as the US Science Envoy for the Middle East and North Africa allowed him to observe firsthand the impact of geopolitical tensions and climate change on tropical infectious diseases. Hotez discusses the decline in global cooperation since 2015, which has hindered efforts to assist the most vulnerable populations. He warns of a cyclical pattern where disease outbreaks exacerbate existing problems, as seen with the global repercussions of COVID-19. By addressing the sociopolitical and environmental factors influencing health, Hotez advocates for proven strategies to improve international relations and public engagement, underscoring the urgency of embracing science in these challe