Too Easy to Forget? Honouring our Hard-Earned Lessons Learned Comparative Framework Matrix for Pandemics Similarities between COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS

Abstract

In this research paper, a comparative framework matrix for presenting similarities between two different pandemics is suggested to fill the void in this domain. It was generated using, primarily, COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS related taxonomies, reported in scientific literature published mostly by health and social science authorities and researchers. Second, using a literature review and a comparative methodology, and making use of, amongst others, several databases, scientific documents and grey literature mentioning similarities between COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS were identified, and their relevant content was displayed side by side in the comparative framework matrix. Thereafter, a comparative framework matrix in condensed format is presented to highlight the similarities between the two pandemics. Third, this research paper draws the readers’ attention to one theme purposefully chosen from the condensed comparative framework matrix for pandemics, i.e., alternative theories of the COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS pandemics’ origin. The results from this comparison show that similarities between the COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS pandemics exist, even at a granular level. Finally, some lessons learned from the comparison are suggested in the research paper’s discussion section. The results from this research paper may help stakeholders compare future pandemics against past ones in a more structured manner to better, for example, detect where further research is warranted and where interdependencies and interconnectedness exist.