The first casualty of an epidemic is evidence. In extreme situations the
imperative of action is strong 16. This makes extreme
measures tempting – including scientific and ethical
shortcuts.17,18 Rigorous evidential and ethical
criteria appear to obstruct progress. However, producing high quality
evidence is the solution to the pandemic, not the problem.
In order to avoid fake facts and to provide sustainable solutions
science needs to pay attention to the various kinds of uncertainty.
Eliminating ambiguity, being alert to the unknown, and gathering data to
estimate risks are crucial to preserve evidence and save lives.