Pandemics

The current pandemic risk is elevated by several factors: the continued spread of flu and measles, particularly with high pediatric mortality and increasing cases in the US, indicates significant transmission potential. The spread of avian flu to various animal species and the detection of human cases in multiple countries highlight the risk of zoonotic spillover. Additionally, low antiviral use among high-risk groups for COVID-19 and funding cuts for RNA vaccine research could undermine public health responses and vaccine deployment. Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy further complicate efforts to control these outbreaks, as seen in the resurgence of measles linked to vaccination gaps.