British health experts have identified 24 pathogen families that pose serious risks to public health. A recent report calls for urgent research efforts, particularly on four groups of pathogens that could trigger future pandemics.
These include viruses responsible for bird flu, COVID-19, and the bat-borne Nipah virus. Nipah can lead to severe brain inflammation and has a high fatality rate. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warns that these pathogens are either highly infectious or cause severe disease. Some lack vaccines or treatments, while others could become more dangerous due to climate change and antibiotic resistance.
Deadly Pathogens Could Spark the Next Global Health Crisis
The list includes viruses behind mpox, coronaviruses, norovirus (commonly known as the winter vomiting bug), influenza, gonorrhoea, Ebola, Zika, Lassa fever, and Nipah. UKHSA classified eight of the 24 pathogen families as high or medium risk for causing pandemics.
While some vaccines and treatments exist, many are still in early development. UKHSA officials stress the need for increased investment in pandemic preparedness. “We hope this will accelerate vaccine and diagnostic development where it matters most,” said Dr. Isabel Oliver, Chief Scientific Officer at UKHSA.
Experts Warn Against Overlooking Other Emerging Threats
Health experts believe the list will streamline the UK’s pandemic preparedness strategy. It follows a similar update from the World Health Organization (WHO), which recently identified 33 priority pathogens with the potential to cause global outbreaks.
However, some scientists caution against focusing too narrowly. Jose Vazquez-Boland of the University of Edinburgh warns that such lists can be a “double-edged sword,” potentially diverting attention from other dangerous but less-publicized diseases.
Emma Thomson from the University of Glasgow stresses the need for regular updates. “This list must remain flexible and respond to new threats,” she said, noting that past pandemics often originated from unexpected sources.
Experts agree: early action, targeted research, and global cooperation are essential. Without these, the next outbreak could take the world by surprise.