Helmholtz White Paper: Better Prepared for the Next Pandemic

What have we learned from COVID-19—and how can we use this knowledge for the future? A White Paper co-authored by ITAS summarizes research findings and provides concrete recommendations for effective pandemic preparedness.

The COVID-19 pandemic has vividly demonstrated the critical importance of research on airborne viruses. Two large-scale projects, COVIPA and CORAERO, led by researchers from the Helmholtz Association, have collected extensive data and generated new insights into the transmission of respiratory viruses, immune defence mechanisms, and disease development. Factors influencing the severity of infections and societal acceptance of measures were also systematically investigated.

The White Paper highlights that significant gaps still exist between scientific knowledge and practical implementation. To bridge these gaps, there is a particular need for permanently funded research and monitoring structures that remain in place even outside of acute crises. Additionally, existing data and technologies must be more rapidly integrated into political decision-making processes and concrete actions.

There is also a pressing need to improve networking between research institutions, health authorities, and policymakers. At the same time, it is essential to develop preventive measures early and anchor them more firmly in society, for example through transparent communication that strengthens public trust.

The goal of the White Paper is to establish the Helmholtz Association as a central component of a national pandemic preparedness network—enabling faster, more coordinated, and more effective responses to future health crises. (30 June 2026)

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