The World Health Organization (WHO) recently sparked controversy with their statement that genetic material from Wuhan, China, should have been shared three years ago. Chinese health officials have accused the WHO of attempting to smear China and of politicizing COVID-19. The WHO has not yet responded, but has previously stated its commitment to working with China to find the source of the virus. International cooperation is essential to ensure that all relevant information is shared in a timely manner to prepare for future pandemics.