1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The Trump administration's decision to cancel funding for research on new vaccines and treatments aimed at preventing future pandemics is deeply concerning. While Covid-19 may be over, the threat of novel pathogens emerging and causing devastating global outbreaks remains ever-present. Terminating studies into antiviral drugs targeting priority pathogens and vaccine development for other coronaviruses with pandemic potential undermines our preparedness for the next public health crisis. The rationale that this is merely Covid-related research is inaccurate and short-sighted. Infectious disease research focusing on emerging threats is crucial for safeguarding public health and saving countless lives. We cannot afford to let our guard down and defund vital scientific work aimed at strengthening our pandemic prevention capabilities. Reinstating this funding must be a top priority to protect our nation and the world from the catastrophic impacts of future pandemics. Robust investment in proactive research is essential to develop the medical countermeasures needed to swiftly contain outbreaks before they spiral out of control.