Implement and enforce stricter vaccination mandates to control the measles outbreak.
Pandemics
Pandemics Risk
Assessment for this date
Today's pandemic risk is high due to significant measles outbreaks in the US, ongoing challenges with COVID-19, and the spread of avian flu and other infectious diseases globally.
January 29, 2026
Trend
Viewing the record for January 29, 2026 within the full trend.
Risk Drivers
What is pushing the current reading.
The current landscape of infectious diseases presents a high risk due to several concurrent outbreaks and challenges. The US is experiencing its largest measles outbreak in decades, with South Carolina reporting nearly 800 cases, which poses a significant public health threat due to measles' high contagion potential. Additionally, COVID-19 continues to impact vulnerable populations, with studies indicating ongoing severe outcomes despite vaccine availability. The spread of avian flu across multiple US states and the detection of new MERS cases in the Middle East further complicate the global infectious disease landscape. These factors, coupled with issues like vaccine misinformation and reduced healthcare access, exacerbate the risk of widespread disease transmission.
Risk Reduction Actions
Priority actions generated from the current analysis.
Increase surveillance and rapid response capabilities for avian flu and other emerging infectious diseases.
Enhance public education efforts to combat vaccine misinformation and promote vaccination uptake.
Support community outreach programs to ensure vulnerable populations have access to vaccines and healthcare services.
Coordinate global efforts to monitor and respond to cross-border disease threats, such as MERS and avian flu.
Sources Monitored
Visible feeds used in this category's nightly run.
Selected Articles
Supporting articles referenced in the latest score.
- US respiratory virus activity reaches high levels as flu, RSV spread
- US respiratory virus activity reaches high levels as flu, RSV spread
- Avian flu strikes birds in 5 more US states, suspected in die-offs in Iowa, Florida
- Saudi Arabia confirms 9 MERS cases, including hospital cluster
- South Carolina measles outbreak explodes to nearly 800 cases Publisher: CBS News
- South Carolina Measles Outbreak Becomes America’s Largest in 25 Years Publisher: Gizmodo