Martin Lush, NSF International’s Covid-19 expert, has addressed the Financial Times’ Global Boardroom event to answer questions about the new vaccines, the effect they may have and the probability of a return to normality in 2021.
‘During the panel,’ Lush said, ‘I cited a number of items that should be on our global agenda, from tackling the root cause of pandemics to the importance of international leadership and a more coordinated response that I would like to see if there is a "next time."
‘These are all topics where I would like to see greater dialogue happening. Most pressing today, however, is vaccine hesitancy. Recent polls tell us 50% of Americans are unlikely to get vaccinated. In the UK, 36% of the population say they are unlikely to get vaccinated.
‘Our desires to return to normalcy depend on two vaccine-related things: vaccine efficacy, or lasting immunity, and uptake, or how many people get a vaccination. Although social distancing and masks will be with us for some time, vaccines are the longer-term solution – providing we get them.’
The Financial Times event took place over video call, with Lush appearing alongside leaders from across the world.
Martin Lush is a microbiologist with over 30 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical and health care industry working with clients in over 50 countries. He leads the Global Health Sciences division for NSF International.
NSF International specialise in the development of public health standards and certification programs that help protect the world’s food, water, consumer products and environment.
