A public inquiry in the UK has found serious flaws in the government's preparation for the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a high death toll and financial strain. Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered the inquiry, which criticized the lack of leadership, planning, and policy in civil emergency structures. The report highlighted failures in adapting preparedness strategies, with a focus on influenza, and a lack of readiness to prevent the spread of diseases like COVID-19. Recommendations include fundamental reforms, new risk assessments, and the establishment of an independent body for civil emergency preparedness to prevent such failures in the future.