The Year the World Went Mad: A Scientific Memoir

Leading epidemiologist Professor Mark Woolhouse warned the UK in January 2020 of a new virus taking hold in China, but received a polite reply stating that everything was under control. He shares his story as an insider, revealing the disregarded advice, frustration of dealing with politicians, and missteps that led to the deaths of vulnerable people, damage to livelihoods, and disruption of education. He warns that when the next pandemic comes, we must not dither and we must not panic.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Sandstone Press Ltd

In January 2020, renowned epidemiologist Professor Mark Woolhouse became aware of a novel virus gaining traction in China. His immediate assessment was a grim prediction for the entire world, leading him to send a urgent email to the Chief Medical Officer of Scotland, urging the UK to initiate immediate preparations. However, a few days later, he received a courteous response assuring him that everything was under control.

In this captivating account, Mark Woolhouse takes us on a personal journey, having served as an advisor to both the Scottish and UK governments. He exposes the disregarded advice, the frustration of dealing with politicians, and the critical missteps that resulted in the tragic loss of lives, the destruction of livelihoods, and the disruption of education. He delves into the folly of lockdown and presents alternative solutions. Importantly, he cautions that when the next pandemic arrives, we must not hesitate and we must not panic. We must learn from our past mistakes and ensure that we never exacerbate a global crisis.

The Year the World Went Mad offers a fresh perspective on our recent, devastating history, shedding light on the events that unfolded and their profound impact on our world.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913207953