According to the report, "there is a very real threat of a rapidly moving, highly lethal pandemic of a respiratory pathogen killing 50 to 80 million people and wiping out nearly 5 percent of the world's economy."
"A global pandemic on that scale would be catastrophic, creating widespread havoc, instability and insecurity," the authors continued. "The world is not prepared." To reach this conclusion, the board examined data regarding climate change as well as political trends and other factors.
However, the GPMB believes this threat can be avoided and we still have time to do so. They place the majority of that responsibility on the shoulders of world leaders stating that they need to "prioritize preparedness with a whole-of-society approach that ensures all are involved and all are protected."
"What we need is leadership and the willingness to act forcefully and effectively," the authors wrote.
The report also stated several guidelines that they believe would be effective in thwarting such a catastrophic event. The board is asking that leaders commit, citing that International Health Regulations must be followed as it is the "obligation" of the leaders.
They are also calling on countries and regional organizations to lead by example. "[...] organizations must follow through on their political and funding commitments for preparedness and agree to routinely monitor progress during their annual meetings," the report says. Other key elements, according to the GPMB, focus on continued investments in vaccine research and development, as well as global coordination amongst all governments.
"For too long, we have allowed a cycle of panic and neglect when it comes to pandemics: we ramp up efforts when there is a serious threat, then quickly forget about them when the threat subsides," authors wrote.
"It is well past time to act."
