Protecting Critical Infrastructure from the Next Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare systems faced unprecedented strain, but they did not completely break down, and other critical infrastructure—the sectors that are considered so vital that their incapacitation or destruction would have debilitating effects on a nation’s security, economic stability, and public health or safety—was largely able to maintain operational functions. However, the next pandemic may be much worse, and critical infrastructure needs to be better protected and prepared before the next crisis.

In this project, we will conduct key informant interviews to learn the staffing and operational needs of critical infrastructure sectors and how to best prepare them for the next pandemic. Due to the potentially sensitive nature of this data collection and to protect the privacy of key informants, all interviews will be conducted under Chatham House rules, and any resulting report of this work will be shared with only relevant government and private stakeholders and not be made available to the public.

This project is currently in the process of identifying key informants for participation. For more information on this ongoing work or to inquire regarding potential participation as a key informant, please contact Dr. Richard Bruns (bruns@jhu.edu).

Project team lead: Richard Bruns, PhD

Project team: Eric Toner, MD; Diane Meyer, RN, MPH; Christina Potter, MSPH

Project supported by: Open Philanthropy Project