Enhance surveillance and reporting systems for flu, RSV, and other respiratory viruses to ensure timely interventions.
Pandemics
Pandemics Risk
Assessment for this date
Today's pandemic risk is high due to rising flu and RSV activity, ongoing COVID-19 impacts, and emerging threats from avian flu and MERS.
January 9, 2026
Trend
Viewing the record for January 9, 2026 within the full trend.
Risk Drivers
What is pushing the current reading.
The current landscape is marked by a significant rise in respiratory illnesses such as flu and RSV in the US and Europe, compounded by persistent COVID-19 challenges including long COVID and vaccine hesitancy. The emergence of avian flu in new regions and the resurgence of MERS cases in the Middle East further complicate the global health situation. These factors, combined with gaps in vaccine uptake and public health responses, elevate the risk of widespread infectious disease outbreaks. Additionally, misinformation and confusion around vaccine policies continue to undermine public health efforts.
Risk Reduction Actions
Priority actions generated from the current analysis.
Increase public awareness and accessibility of vaccines, particularly for flu and COVID-19, to improve uptake.
Address misinformation by providing clear, evidence-based communication about vaccine safety and efficacy.
Coordinate efforts to monitor and respond to emerging threats like avian flu and MERS to prevent cross-border spread.
Accelerate research into long COVID and other post-viral syndromes to develop effective treatments and management strategies.
Sources Monitored
Visible feeds used in this category's nightly run.
Selected Articles
Supporting articles referenced in the latest score.
- US respiratory virus activity rises as Arkansas reports record pertussis year
- Flu, RSV activity rising in US and Europe, with major UK surge in flu cases
- Flu, RSV activity rising in US and Europe, with major UK surge in flu cases
- First ever human case of H5N5 avian flu confirmed in Washington state
- Saudi Arabia confirms 9 MERS cases, including hospital cluster