What did the COVID-19 pandemic teach us about neurological surveillance approaches and how should we be better prepared?

It is well recognised that many pandemic viruses are associated with neurological complications, most recently COVID-19. Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, neurological surveillance platforms were implemented to characterise these complications. Such platforms are invaluable in providing timely data, informing clinical practice, and directing future research. Lessons learnt from recent neurological surveillance networks highlight the importance of global and cross-specialty collaboration. Future surveillance systems must consider these aspects, as they will also serve to improve representation of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and communities. Trainees played a critical role in the success of neurological surveillance networks: as frontline healthcare workers, they provided timely data collection, and their fresh insights are important for shaping future pandemic surveillance systems.<br/><br/>In this article, we review the methods used in recent neurological surveillance networks, outlining their strengths and limitations. We also explore the outlook for pandemic surveillance platforms and emphasise the crucial role of global collaboration in ensuring LMIC representation. Finally, we examine the role of trainees in pandemic surveillance networks and highlight how encouraging their continued involvement is vital to ensure that, as future healthcare leaders, they are prepared to manage future pandemics effectively.