Overview

• Virologist Christian Drosten rejected claims that he was the 'architect' of Germany's Covid-19 measures, clarifying his advisory role during the pandemic.
• Drosten argued that political leaders, not scientists, are responsible for balancing health policies with societal, economic, and individual rights considerations.
• He admitted a major misjudgment in supporting mandatory vaccination for medical staff during the Omikron wave, acknowledging its limited efficacy in preventing infections.
• Drosten highlighted data—particularly from Great Britain—showing the effectiveness of measures such as remote work, school closures, and restrictions on gatherings in reducing case numbers.
• He stressed the importance of avoiding rigid, Covid-specific pandemic plans and called for well-funded infection research and strong public health institutions to ensure agile responses to future crises.