Preventable: How a Pandemic Changed the World & How to Stop the Next One

Devi Sridhar, a world-leading expert on COVID-19, has written a book called Preventable that tells the story of the pandemic and how global politics shape our health. She highlights lessons learned from outbreaks past and present and sets out a vision for how we can better protect ourselves from future health crises. The book combines science, politics, ethics, and economics and exposes the deep-seated economic and social inequalities at the heart of the global structures that determine our fate.

Format: Hardback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 21 April 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The Sunday Times bestseller | BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week

Preventable is an extraordinary account of the COVID-19 pandemic and its profound impact on global health, presented by renowned expert Professor Devi Sridhar, a leading science communicator. With her expertise in conveying scientific information to the public and speaking truth to power, Sridhar has emerged as a prominent figure in the fight against the pandemic.

In Preventable, Sridhar delves into the lessons learned from past outbreaks and presents a comprehensive narrative that traces the origins and trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic. She shares her personal experiences as a scientist, providing a firsthand account of the challenges and complexities of the research and response efforts.

Through gripping and heartfelt prose, Sridhar exposes the varied realities of those affected by the pandemic. She portrays the struggles of healthcare workers, the plight of individuals confined on cruise ships, and the devastating consequences of the virus on communities worldwide. She also puts the reader in the room with key decision-makers at crucial moments, shedding light on the decisions that shaped the course of the pandemic.

Sridhar vividly conveys the twists and turns of the pandemic's narrative. She challenges the false narratives propagated by social media pundits, highlighting the emergence of deadlier variants and the complex interplay between health and the economy. She also explores the disparities in outcomes between countries with robust health systems and those with weak ones, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and response.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Preventable is the swift development of game-changing vaccines. Sridhar highlights the unprecedented efforts of scientists and researchers worldwide in developing and distributing these vaccines. However, she also exposes the unfair distribution of these life-saving tools, highlighting the need for equitable access and global cooperation.

In conclusion, Preventable is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the origins, impact, and lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Devi Sridhar's expertise and storytelling skills make this book accessible and engaging, providing valuable insights into the complex interplay between global politics, health, and human resilience. As we navigate the challenges of the future, Preventable serves as a blueprint for building a more resilient and prepared society.

Weight: 648g
Dimension: 169 x 243 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241510537