Pandemics

The current pandemic risk is heightened by an increase in COVID-19 activity in the US, concerns about long COVID, and the potential for reinfection to exacerbate symptoms. Meanwhile, avian flu cases are being reported in multiple countries, including human infections in Cambodia, which could indicate a risk of wider spread. Vaccine uptake remains a challenge, with a significant portion of the population planning to skip COVID boosters, and misinformation continues to undermine public health efforts. These factors, combined with the ongoing threat of other infectious diseases like MERS and chikungunya, contribute to a moderate risk level, with potential for escalation if containment and vaccination efforts are not effectively managed.