Overview

• A BMJ analysis by Anthony Costello critiques the UK’s decision to ignore WHO suppression guidance during the early COVID-19 pandemic.
• The UK adopted an influenza-based strategy aiming for herd immunity, which experts argue led to tens of thousands of preventable deaths.
• Comparative data shows that the UK’s excess mortality rate was significantly higher than countries like South Korea, which followed suppression measures.
• Key failures included the lack of rapid testing, large-scale contact tracing, and financial support for self-isolation, according to the analysis.
• Calls for governance reforms and a thorough COVID inquiry persist as many advisers responsible for the initial strategy remain in key positions.