Enhance surveillance and rapid response mechanisms for emerging infectious diseases like MERS and avian flu.
Pandemics
Pandemics Risk
Assessment for this date
Today's pandemic risk is moderate due to rising COVID-19 activity, ongoing avian flu outbreaks, and emerging MERS cases, compounded by public health challenges and vaccine misinformation.
September 25, 2025
Trend
Viewing the record for September 25, 2025 within the full trend.
Risk Drivers
What is pushing the current reading.
The current landscape of infectious diseases presents a moderate risk, with increasing COVID-19 activity in the US and avian flu cases in multiple regions, including the detection of H5N1 in dairy cows and poultry. The emergence of MERS cases in Saudi Arabia adds to the complexity, highlighting the need for vigilant surveillance and response. Despite advancements in vaccine development and deployment, public health efforts are hindered by misinformation and weakened vaccine recommendations, which could undermine vaccination campaigns. Additionally, the resurgence of other viruses post-COVID measures and the potential for zoonotic transmissions further complicate the global health situation.
Risk Reduction Actions
Priority actions generated from the current analysis.
Strengthen public communication strategies to counter misinformation and improve vaccine uptake.
Prioritize vaccination efforts, especially in high-risk populations, to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 and influenza.
Accelerate research on universal vaccines and treatments for emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.
Foster global collaboration to address cross-border health threats and improve pandemic preparedness.
Sources Monitored
Visible feeds used in this category's nightly run.
Selected Articles
Supporting articles referenced in the latest score.
- US COVID activity gains more steam
- USDA confirms first H5N1 avian flu detection in Nebraska dairy cows
- Saudi Arabia confirms 9 MERS cases, including hospital cluster
- WHO notes 4 new MERS cases, 2 fatal, in Saudi Arabia since September
- COVID vaccine may boost antibody response to MERS, other coronaviruses