The Big One: How We Must Prepare for Future Deadly Pandemics

Osterholm, founding director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, and documentarian Olshaker team up again (after Deadliest Enemy) for this standout look at what’s needed to combat future pandemics. First, the authors look back at the Covid-19 pandemic, pointing out numerous mistakes that were made, including experts being slow to accept that the disease was spread by airborne particles rather than droplets, the overoptimistic government messaging that Covid would pass quickly, and the implementation of efforts best described as “hygiene theater” rather than meaningful prophylactic policies. To help prevent a redo, they convincingly argue that pandemic preparation should be taken as seriously as the country’s national defense efforts, and present a fascinating hypothetical scenario in which a coronavirus more infectious and deadlier than Covid-19 explodes out of East Africa and is carried across the globe in days. They urge support for studies into the psychology of vaccine uptake, call for government-funded research rather than relying on pharmaceutical companies, and movingly implore political leaders and medical professionals to embrace humility and honesty when the next pandemic comes. The result is a powerful and persuasive rallying cry. Agent: Frank Weimann, Folio Literary. (Sept.)