Pandemics

The current pandemic risk is influenced by several factors: the emergence of new COVID-19 variants and the uptick in wastewater signals suggest ongoing transmission risks. The spread of H5N1 avian flu in various regions, including Cambodia and the US, highlights the potential for zoonotic spillover events. Additionally, the mistrust in public health institutions, as evidenced by controversies surrounding vaccine policies and advisory committees, could undermine public health responses and vaccine uptake. These elements, combined with the ongoing challenges of misinformation and the need for robust surveillance, contribute to a moderate risk level.