The UK’s COVID-19 inquiry has released its latest report, highlighting the country’s stringent lockdown measures during the pandemic. According to the report, the UK was one of the most locked-down countries globally, but this approach was not inevitable. Instead, it was a result of failed public health policy. The inquiry’s findings emphasize that saving lives is the top priority in a public health emergency, but this does not necessarily mean choosing between harsh restrictions or more deaths. Rather, it involves selecting the most effective ways to protect people from a dangerous virus.

In 2020, the UK government imposed lockdowns without assessing the potential harm to the economy, education, healthcare, and overall wellbeing, particularly for children. The resulting damage was vast, underscoring the need for policymakers to prioritize avoiding lockdowns in future pandemics. The inquiry heard testimony from various experts, including politicians, officials, doctors, and epidemiologists. However, there was surprisingly little discussion about alternative approaches to tackling COVID-19 without lockdowns.

The report suggests that earlier action could have prevented the need for lockdowns altogether. More moderate precautions, such as respiratory hygiene and self-isolation, could have been sufficient to keep essential services running and even allow professional sports to continue before vaccines were available. The inquiry also emphasizes the importance of protecting vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, through targeted measures like “cocooning” and lateral flow testing.

The report highlights the need for better preparedness planning, real-time data collection, and competent public health agencies to respond effectively to future pandemics. Additionally, it stresses the importance of diverse and inclusive advisory committees that can provide a range of options for policymakers. The inquiry’s findings have significant implications for the future of pandemic response, emphasizing the need for a more nuanced and multifaceted approach that prioritizes public health while minimizing economic and social disruption.