Philanthropist and Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates offers insights into the COVID-19 pandemic, discussing why testing and self-isolation are essential, which medical advancements show promise and what it will take for the world to endure this crisis. (This virtual conversation is part of the TED Connects series, hosted by head of TED Chris Anderson and current affairs curator Whitney Pennington Rodgers. Recorded March 24, 2020)

How we must respond to the coronavirus pandemic

Containing COVID-19 hinges on rapid testing, strict isolation, and global cooperation, rather than wishful thinking or economic shortcuts. Delays in testing and response cost precious time; by March 2020, millions faced lockdowns and uncertain futures. Still, many countries can avoid catastrophe by learning from places like South Korea and China, where targeted action kept infections below 0.01% of the population. Investing in science today is far less costly than facing unchecked outbreaks tomorrow.