Pandemics

The pandemic risk remains moderate as COVID-19 levels are rising in certain US regions, and there is a concerning low uptake of vaccines among high-risk groups such as cancer patients. Additionally, the emergence of new infectious threats like H5N1 avian flu and MERS in various regions, coupled with ongoing surveillance gaps and public mistrust in health agencies, exacerbates the risk. The persistence of misinformation and vaccine hesitancy further complicates public health responses, while the potential for cognitive impairments following COVID-19 hospitalizations highlights long-term health impacts. These factors collectively suggest a sustained moderate risk of infectious disease outbreaks.