The World Health Organization’s Scientific Advisory Group for the Origins of Novel Pathogens (SAGO) has released a new report about the origins of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 27-member international expert panel spent over three years studying available data. While they have made progress in understanding how the virus may have started, SAGO says that not enough information has been provided to confirm any one theory.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, thanked the SAGO team and said, “All theories are still possible, including a natural spillover from animals or a lab-related incident.” He urged China and other countries to share any data they may have to help the world prevent future pandemics.
SAGO’s latest findings suggest that the most likely origin of COVID-19 is a zoonotic spillover — meaning the virus likely spread from bats to humans, either directly or through another animal. However, the group noted that full access to data, especially from China, is still missing.
WHO had asked China for detailed genetic information, data on animals sold at Wuhan markets, and lab safety records from Wuhan, but that information has not been shared.
SAGO first shared its recommendations in 2022. Since then, the group has met 52 times, reviewed published and unpublished studies, interviewed scientists, and examined reports from governments and intelligence agencies.
Dr Marietjie Venter, Chair of SAGO, said, “This is not just science — it’s a moral responsibility. Knowing how this virus began can help stop future pandemics and reduce human suffering.”
SAGO was formed in 2021 after WHO member countries requested a deeper investigation into the origins of the virus. Its goals were to create a global research framework and apply it to the COVID-19 case.
WHO and SAGO say the investigation is not yet complete and they are ready to study any new evidence that becomes available.
