By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The World Health Organization’s Scientific Advisory Group for the Origins of Novel Pathogens (SAGO) has published an updated report exploring the possible origins of SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the report reflects meaningful progress, it also highlights persistent gaps in data that hinder definitive conclusions.
SAGO’s findings reinforce the leading hypothesis that the virus likely originated from animals, suggesting zoonotic spillover either directly from bats or via an intermediate host.
However, the group emphasizes that without access to additional critical information such as genetic sequences, details about animal markets in Wuhan, or laboratory biosafety records the full picture remains incomplete.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO Director-General, underscored the importance of transparency, urging China and other countries to share vital data.
“All hypotheses remain possible, including a lab leak or zoonotic transmission. Open sharing of information is essential to prevent future pandemics.”
The report also reflects on the extensive efforts undertaken by SAGO, which convened 52 times over three years, reviewing scientific literature, unpublished data, and field investigations. Despite these efforts, the origin question remains unresolved, illustrating the complexity of tracing a virus’s emergence.
Experts like Dr. Marietjie Venter, chair of SAGO, stress that understanding COVID-19’s origins is not just a scientific pursuit but a moral imperative.
“Knowing how this pandemic started is crucial for preventing future health crises. It’s vital that all countries cooperate fully to provide the necessary information,”she said.
The investigation into COVID-19’s origins began in earnest after WHO Member States adopted a resolution in late 2020. A joint WHO-China mission traveled to Wuhan in early 2021, but despite ongoing investigations and multiple reports, definitive answers continue to elude the global community.
WHO remains committed to transparency and urges countries to share any new evidence that could clarify how the virus first emerged. The organization emphasizes that understanding the origins of SARS-CoV-2 is an ongoing process, vital for global health security.