Study: Immunity from infection a major driver in Netherlands mpox decline

The Lancet and the Coalition for Preventing Pandemics at the Source yesterday announced that they have convened the new Commission on Prevention of Viral Spillover.

This commission strives to mobilize decision makers to act to limit viral spillovers through research, policy, law, and practice, reducing the risk of future pandemics. The commission said viral spillovers between animals and humans have been the source of five viral pandemics in the last century (1918 influenza, 1957–58 influenza, 1968 influenza, 2009 influenza, and HIV), and more recently, COVID-19.

Commission to produce report within 3 years

“Spillovers are a reminder that humans are inherently part of nature and that human wellbeing is intertwined with that of animals and the environment. As such, adopting a One Health approach when addressing viral pandemic threats is imperative,” authors wrote in The Lancet.

Spillovers are a reminder that humans are inherently part of nature.

The initial goals of the coalition are to conduct original research and published a comprehensive report in 2 to 3 years on viral spillover prevention. A total of 28 experts are on the commission, from fields ranging from epidemiology, veterinary medicine, and food systems management.

Climate change, deforestation, and biosafety in veterinary care and animal husbandry will be early foci for the commission.