Let’s Talk About: Surveillance How should we track disease?

How do we talk about surveillance—and its role in tracking and preventing outbreaks of disease?

Disease surveillance helps us spot outbreaks early, track patterns, and look after public health. But it can also feel uncomfortable. As more everyday data is used to predict and prevent pandemics, questions about trust, transparency, and who gets a say become harder to ignore.

We’re excited to share our second ‘Let’s Talk About’ event created with the Pandemic Sciences Institute. Join us at the History of Science Museum for conversations exploring questions such as ‘how do you identify emerging pandemic threats?’ and ‘how should we navigate everyday data — from social media to wearable devices — being used in public health?’.

You’ll hear from four thought-provoking speakers who will guide small breakout discussions centred around unique objects that tell a story about their work. You’ll also have an opportunity to contribute to the conversation as we explore how all of us can shape future research on these topics. Will hearing each other’s stories shift how we think?

Let’s talk about surveillance.

17:30 – Arrive at the Entrance Gallery 

Explore our A Healthy Future for All exhibition curated by HSM and PSI. Chat with the curators and speakers.

17: 45 – Welcome 

A welcome from our Museum Director Dr Silke Ackermann and an introduction to our speakers from Dr Sean Elias (PSI).

18:00 – Head to the Basement Gallery 

Speakers will lead small group conversations before we come together to share discussion highlights and have time for your questions.

19:00–19:30 – Keep the Conversation Going 

Speakers and curators will be around to carry on the conversation in the Entrance Gallery.

Apologies, we cannot offer disabled, level access to the Museum.