What has COVID-19 taught you about disease and how do you think the world needs to prepare for pandemics in the future?

Dr. Albert A. Rizzo, MD FACP FCCP
Chief Medical Officer
American Lung Association

For many Americans, COVID-19 has taught them about the importance of public health measures, as well as the critical importance of lung health. COVID-19 has made it evident that every breath matters. So whether quitting smoking or seeking to better manage lung diseases, people are more aware of their lung health.

Moving forward, robust investments in public health infrastructure will be needed to prepare for the next pandemic. This will be critical to saving lives. And it’s especially important as we know that climate change can increase vector-borne diseases, so it’s not a matter of if, but when we’ll need to prepare for the next pandemic. The American Lung Association will be there to share trusted information and fund research to advance treatments.

What has COVID-19 taught the scientific community about working together and collaborating to achieve goals?

Collaboration is critical to advancing science and saving lives. The pandemic has brought many institutions together and forged unique partnerships, including through the Lung Association’s COVID-19 Action Initiative. We know that we’re stronger together, and we’ll get through this.