Experts Warn of Resurgence of Old Viruses in 2026: Is the World Prepared for a New Pandemic Wave?

As 2026 approaches, public health experts are cautioning that pandemic threats may not stem from entirely new viruses, but rather from old viruses reemerging with enhanced capabilities, driven by climate change, increased travel, and growing human-animal interactions.

Infectious disease specialists confirm that the world has become more susceptible to sudden outbreaks, particularly as health surveillance and response systems show significant weaknesses in several countries, making global vigilance critically important.

* Key Viruses of Concern in 2026

1 _ Avian Influenza A (notably H5N1)

This virus is at the top of scientists' watchlists due to its high mutation rate and ability to infect multiple species.

• Recent transmission of the virus from birds to mammals has been documented, including in cattle in the United States.

• This raises concerns about the virus adapting for human-to-human transmission, a critical factor for triggering a new global pandemic.

• Current seasonal vaccines do not provide adequate protection against this strain, highlighting the need for early preparedness.

2 _ Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox)

The disease is no longer confined to Africa and has become endemic in several countries, with cases of direct human transmission.

• While infections have decreased from epidemic peaks, the emergence of a more severe strain in some African nations and cases outside the continent without travel history heighten the risk of new waves in 2026.

3 _ Urobochi Virus (mosquito-borne)

This lesser-known virus poses a silent threat.

• Symptoms include fever, headaches, and muscle pain, but it spreads rapidly through mosquitoes and small, hard-to-detect insects.

• Its range has expanded in Latin America and the Caribbean over the past two decades, with potential to reach new areas due to climate change.

* Additional Threats Requiring Caution

• Ongoing outbreaks of the chikungunya virus in various regions.

• Resurgence of measles due to declining vaccination rates.

• Increased risks of HIV infections due to disruptions in healthcare support programs in some countries.

* Global Vigilance Needed

Experts emphasize that early preparation, strengthening vaccination programs, and developing pandemic alert systems are essential pillars for preventing large-scale health crises.

They assert that prevention is no longer a local matter but a shared global responsibility in an interconnected world where viruses can spread as rapidly as human movement.