Moderate Risk: The current pandemic risk is moderate due to rising flu and RSV cases, ongoing measles outbreaks, and avian flu spread, compounded by vaccine misinformation and public health challenges.
The resurgence of flu and RSV cases in the US, alongside measles outbreaks in detention centers and schools, indicates a significant spread potential of infectious diseases. Avian flu continues to affect multiple states, raising concerns about zoonotic transmission. While COVID-19 vaccines remain effective, misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, as highlighted by recent appointments of vaccine opponents to advisory boards, undermine public health efforts. Surveillance and responsiveness are crucial, but gaps remain, especially in managing cross-border outbreaks and ensuring adequate vaccine deployment. These factors collectively contribute to a heightened pandemic risk, though not at a critical level yet.
[Government] Increase funding for flu and RSV vaccination campaigns to mitigate rising cases.
[Public Health Agencies] Enhance surveillance and rapid response capabilities for measles and avian flu outbreaks.
[Healthcare Providers] Educate communities on the importance of vaccines and counter misinformation actively.
[NGOs] Collaborate with international bodies to strengthen cross-border disease monitoring and response.
[Media] Provide accurate information on vaccine safety and efficacy to combat misinformation.