Pandemic Preparedness

• Imperial College Lead: Prof Wendy Barclay
• UKHSA Lead: Dr Gavin Dabrera
• Imperial College Deputy Lead: Dr Joe Fenn
• UKHSA Deputy Lead: Dr Anika Singanayagam

Overview

The COVID-19 pandemic showed how important it is to act quickly and with the right evidence when a new respiratory threat emerges. This theme is about being prepared, not just reactive.

We’re developing research tools and protocols now, so that when the next pandemic arrives, we can move fast. At the heart of this is a new Rapid Response Research Protocol (R3PERP), designed to launch within days of an outbreak. It will help us gather community-level data in real time on symptoms, transmission, and outcomes, so public health responses are based on timely, relevant evidence.

This theme builds on our proven track record during COVID-19, when we rapidly delivered major national studies, ATACCC and INSTINCT, to inform the UK’s response.

We’re also working closely with communities, especially those at higher risk, to ensure that future research and interventions are inclusive, trusted, and effective.

Key projects:

• Development of a Rapid Response Research Protocol (R3PERP)

We are developing a scalable, ethically pre-approved protocol, R3PERP, that can be rapidly activated during future respiratory outbreaks. R3PERP will enable real-time data collection on symptoms, transmission, and clinical outcomes in households and care homes. This protocol is being piloted using RSV and influenza over two winter seasons to ensure readiness and to refine logistics.

• Community-based Surveillance and Transmission Studies

We will conduct studies that investigate how respiratory infections spread in real-world settings. These will focus particularly on multigenerational households and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, recognising their heightened vulnerability during outbreaks.

• Design and Evaluation of Intervention Scenarios

Using community data, we will model the potential impact of various interventions, such as antivirals, diagnostics, and public health policies, on the spread and severity of future respiratory viruses.

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How is this theme relevant to UKHSA objectives?

We will directly support the UKHSA’s preparedness objectives, including its contribution to the “100-Day Mission” for rapid outbreak response. The evidence, infrastructure, and protocols developed under this research theme will provide the foundation for early action and decision-making in future respiratory pandemics.