Strengthen surveillance and response systems for avian flu and other zoonotic diseases.
Pandemics
Pandemics Risk
Assessment for this date
Today's pandemic risk is moderate due to ongoing outbreaks of avian flu, measles, and MERS, alongside declining COVID-19 activity and vaccine challenges.
October 17, 2025
Trend
Viewing the record for October 17, 2025 within the full trend.
Risk Drivers
What is pushing the current reading.
The global pandemic risk remains moderate with several infectious diseases posing significant threats. Avian flu continues to affect poultry and wild birds in multiple regions, raising concerns about potential zoonotic transmission. Measles outbreaks in the US highlight gaps in vaccination coverage and public health response. Meanwhile, MERS cases in Saudi Arabia and other regions underscore the need for vigilance against coronaviruses. Although COVID-19 activity is declining, the emergence of new variants and vaccine efficacy concerns persist. Additionally, misinformation about vaccines continues to hinder public health efforts, complicating the response to these threats.
Risk Reduction Actions
Priority actions generated from the current analysis.
Increase vaccination campaigns and public awareness to address measles outbreaks.
Monitor and manage long COVID and other post-infection complications.
Combat misinformation about vaccines through targeted education and outreach programs.
Accelerate development of universal vaccines for flu and coronaviruses.
Sources Monitored
Visible feeds used in this category's nightly run.
Selected Articles
Supporting articles referenced in the latest score.
- Japan sees early flu activity, with school closures
- CDC reports highlight 2024-25 flu season's deadly impact on US kids
- Quick takes: Israeli measles death, latest on avian flu, fatal Rift Valley fever cases in Senegal
- Saudi Arabia confirms 9 MERS cases, including hospital cluster
- WHO reports 4 more MERS cases from Saudi Arabia
- Measles outbreak in South Carolina Publisher: localnewslive.com
- Sudan hit by triple outbreak of deadly diseases Publisher: The Telegraph