New group set up to plan for future pandemics

A team of experts are coming together to help prepare for the threat of future pandemics.

The Scottish Government say its standing committee on pandemics will ensure the country is prepared for other new viruses.

Professor Linda Bauld, the chair of public health at Edinburgh University, will chair the committee for its first meeting on Thursday while a chairperson is sought.

Membership will also include Chief Medical Officer Dr Gregor Smith.

Prof Bauld said: "It is critical for scientists and officials to work alongside each other to make sure Scotland can meet the challenges infectious diseases will throw at us in the future.

"I'm delighted to be a part of starting that process.''

Dr Smith added: "This committee will play a vital role in considering a broad range of scientific and technical advice, including both human and animal health.

"`It will also look at wider behavioural and societal factors which could affect how we respond to a pandemic in the future.''

Committee will help 'bolster readiness'

It is unclear who else will be on the committee, although the Scottish Government said it will be made up of "leading scientists and medical specialists''.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: "Scotland's world-class scientific expertise has been evident throughout the pandemic and this committee will help ensure we are as ready as we can be for any future threat.

"The immediate challenge will be to continue to ensure we can respond to the current pandemic, but we know that infectious disease outbreaks could become more frequent in the coming decade.

"Our public health capacity has been significantly strengthened across Scotland as a result of Covid-19 to manage outbreaks both at national and local level.

"This new committee will help bolster our readiness.''

Hear the latest news on Clyde 1 on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.