In this podcast episode, the origins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, are explored. The two main hypotheses, a natural spillover event or a laboratory leak, are discussed, along with the inconclusive evidence for both. The lack of transparency from Chinese officials is highlighted as a hindrance to investigations, and the US government's expected declassification of intelligence on the origins of the virus is discussed. The importance of biosafety and biosecurity in research settings is emphasized, along with the need for better regulation and oversight of high-risk laboratories. The risk of zoonotic spillover events is also addressed, with suggestions for limiting human interactions with wild animals and addressing biodiversity loss. While the origins of COVID-19 may never be definitively known, the lessons learned from this pandemic should inform efforts to prevent future outbreaks and pandemics.

The Biden administration is expected to declassify some information gathered on the origin of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, hoping to end a three-year battle over whether covid-19 came from a seafood market or a laboratory in Wuhan, China. Some scientists say they have strong evidence for a market origin—although many are far from convinced. Will this mystery ever be solved? 

Natasha Loder, The Economist’s health editor, asks James Wood, an epidemiologist at the University of Cambridge, how to trace a virus back to its source—and why interpreting the patchy data is so complicated. Plus, Alison Young, the author of “Pandora’s Gamble” explains the implications of this investigation on laboratory safety. Alok Jha, The Economist’s science and technology editor, hosts. 

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