| Nightmare scenario | Escape of a genetically engineered highly pathogenic transmissible agent. Rapid global spread of a hypervirulent respiratory virus. High pathogenicity virus spread by ubiquitous day-biting mosquitoes. High pathogenicity virus with a long presymptomatic period or absence of symptoms in some infectious individuals (‘silent man’) or prolonged viral shedding post recovery.
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| Priorities for future research/policy | Improving basic EID literacy (professionals, politicians and public) Enhanced EID surveillance and risk mapping. Defining the mechanisms of pathogen host species ‘jumping’. Understanding social mobility and community network structures. Eco-friendly infection control conscious city planning. Protecting frontline staff. Immunisation strategies for disease prevention and outbreak response. Developing rapid accurate diagnostics and effective treatment. Minimising adverse economic impacts. Advanced scenario planning to guide action in an emergency.
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| Most important research question | What are all the infectious agents that exist in nature and their respective spill-over risk to humans? How to accurately value ecosystem services and the societal cost of human-induced ecosystem disturbance?
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| Issues that require public consultation | Accepted levels of public surveillance, including strategies for early outbreak detection and transmission chain tracking. Justification for escalating degrees of intervention. How to keep the public informed during a crisis. Compensation for those affected by disease containment strategies. Balancing individual and community risks/benefits in decision-making. Balancing the best interests of current and future generations.
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