Next Pandemic Could be Worse, Says Scientist Behind COVID Vaccine

Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert on June 11, 2021. Gilbert is one of the scientists behind the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Steve Parsons/PA via AP

The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over and the next one could be worse, according to one of the scientists behind the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

“This will not be the last time a virus threatens our lives and our livelihoods,” said Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert in excerpts released before a speech on Monday. “The truth is the next one could be worse. It could be more contagious, or more lethal, or both.”