Lessons from the Covid-19 investigation for our policymakers – Editorial

But we also cannot ignore the investigation’s findings that vaccine requirements have “harmed individuals and families and contributed to a loss of social capital” and the subsequent loss of trust could undermine the ability to respond to future pandemics.

Among the report’s key findings was that the “use of coercion” – including the introduction of various public health measures – was one of the “most controversial aspects” of the Covid-19 response.

This included the decision to set requirements for vaccines, described in the report as “a major source of tension and social division”, with “strong views both for and against their use”.

The report said that based on information available in 2021, it was “reasonable” for the government to issue orders mandating vaccinations for specific occupations, such as border guards and health care workers. The vaccine pathway system developed in late 2021, when the Delta variant was dominant, was also described as “reasonable.”

But some of the vaccine claims “have been applied more widely than originally thought” and the case for their use has become less compelling in 2022 as Omicron has become the dominant option.

“The case for all types of vaccines weakened in early 2022 with the emergence of the Omicron variant, as vaccination became much less effective in preventing transmission of Covid-19 and immunity weakened over time.

“Although vaccination was beneficial for the individual, it now provided less protection for others, and the public health case for its necessity was weak.”

Our newsroom is proud of the campaign it has led to support vaccinations. We believe our 90% project was the key to many New Zealanders getting the jab. High vaccination rates were one of the factors the government took into account when deciding to lift some Covid-19 restrictions. We also agree with the strong consensus in the scientific community regarding the effectiveness of vaccination and the benefits that outweigh the risks.

But with the country expected to face another pandemic, it is imperative that the government, the Ministry of Health and other relevant departments heed the investigation’s recommendations.

The inquiry has so far made 39 key recommendations, many of which focus on ensuring we are better prepared for the next public health crisis such as Covid-19.

There’s no shortage of problems to solve in our civil service (and with so many job cuts leaving fewer people available to take on the job), we also can’t predict when the next pandemic will come.

If the best time to start preparing for this was yesterday, then the second best time, as they say, is now.