Appendix A
Workshop Statement of Task
This virtual workshop will host retrospective and prospective discussions on the broad ongoing effects of the rapidly evolving pandemic on human health and society. Presentations will explore new understandings, challenges, and emerging data for leaders in governments, public health systems, the private sector, and communities to consider in the ongoing pandemic response with a view toward improving resilience and preparedness for future outbreaks. Specifically, the workshop will feature invited presentations, panel discussions, and breakout rooms on the following topics:
- Anticipated long-term effects of the pandemic on health, both direct (physiological) and indirect (societal), at the individual and population level
- The effects of COVID-19 on human health equity, taking into consideration the two-way relationship between health outcomes and structural or social determinants of health
- Incorporating best practices and lessons learned from around the world to examine the role of social sciences in building a nuanced, transdisciplinary approach that strives to ensure equity in continued COVID-19 recovery efforts and mitigation of future emergent diseases
- Takeaways from the COVID-19 experience for leaders in government, communities, and the private sector on actionable and sustainable ways to collaborate, manage risk, build trust, and communicate effectively for public health, particularly in the context of uncertainty during public health emergencies
- The effect of disinformation and misinformation and how they can be managed to maintain public trust and optimize adherence to health behavioral guidance in a time of crisis
- Ensuring lessons (re-)learned from COVID-19 are captured effectively in health systems to ensure a more proactive approach to pandemic preparedness and response