The document discusses lessons that can be learned from previous pandemics to better prepare health systems for the current COVID-19 pandemic. It makes three key points: 1) Social distancing measures that were effective in the past, like quarantine and isolation, may help slow the spread again. 2) Health systems need to activate emergency plans to increase critical care capacity and resources like testing, personal protective equipment, and staffing to meet the surge in patients. 3) Past pandemics revealed gaps in preparedness, and more must be done after this crisis to strengthen public health infrastructure and stockpiles so health systems are better equipped to respond to future outbreaks.