The world’s ecosystems in mother nature function in the same manner as the human body: When ecosystems are strong and healthy — which means they have diverse species and habitat for healthy animal populations — they are more resistant to disease. It is vital that we take care of nature to take care of ourselves. We must protect ecosystems to aid in preventing future pandemics. This means governments should do more to create protected areas, national parks, fight climate change, and address the illegal wildlife trade. Please do your part by supporting and voting for candidates that support environmental protections as we need leaders who understand the connection between healthy ecosystems and our health.