Welcome to our latest edition of On Your Marks, where we will be exploring the fascinating intersection of intellectual property law and the COVID-19 pandemic, three years after half of the world went into a lockdown and only days after many governments have declared it officially over (or at least have rebranded it from pandemic to endemic). While it's been a challenging time for all of us, it has also been a period of incredible innovation and scientific discovery.

One of the most significant developments in the fight against COVID-19 has been the creation of vaccines, which developed at an unprecedented pace. However, as with any new technology, the development of vaccines has also raised important questions about patents and potential conflicts of interest. While some have called to waive vaccine patents, others argue that strong IP protections are necessary to encourage innovation and ensure fair compensation for the companies developing the vaccines.

That is just one example of the complex issues that arose after the pandemic. Another widely discussed topic concerning COVID-19 is the lab leak theory of the virus. This theory suggests that the virus may have originated from a laboratory in Wuhan, China, rather than from a wet market in the same city, as was previously believed. While there is still much debate about the validity of this theory, it has important implications for intellectual property law, particularly with regard to the patenting of technologies used in virology research, such as “gain-of-function” studies.

As we continue to navigate the ongoing pandemic, it is also worth noting some of the technologies that emerged succeeding lockdowns and other pandemic-related restrictions. For example, many companies have developed new virtual meeting and collaboration tools, which have allowed people to work together even when they are physically separated. These technologies odds-on to continue playing an important role in our lives, even after the pandemic is over.

Finally, we cannot forget the impact that COVID-19 has had on trademarks and branding. Many companies have had to pivot their business models or find new ways to reach customers in a rapidly changing landscape. From hand sanitizer brands to virtual fitness studios, the pandemic has spawned a host of new trademarks and brands plausible to be with us for years to come.

So there you have it, dear readers: a whirlwind tour of how COVID-19 has intersected with intellectual property law. We hope you found this edition informative and thought-provoking. Remember to reach out in case of questions or comments. 

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