WHO has updated its list of the most dangerous viruses, bacteria and fungi.
Many pathogens are limited to certain regions, but have the potential to spread globally.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has updated its list of the most dangerous viruses, bacteria and fungi that could trigger the next pandemic. It was published by the organization on Monday, August 5, writes Nature.
The list includes more than 30 viruses and bacteria, including influenza A virus, dengue virus and monkeypox viruses
The researchers explained that they chose the pathogens based on their potential threat to global health. The selection criteria were high contagiousness, virulence and limited access to vaccines and treatments. At the same time, experts stressed that the list will not be permanent and will likely be updated in light of global changes such as climate change, urbanization and international travel.
The more than 30 priority pathogens now include coronaviruses such as Sarbecovirus (including SARS-CoV-2) and Merbecovirus (including MERS). Monkeypox virus was also added after the 2022 outbreak, while smallpox virus remains on the list due to its potential use as a biological weapon.
The list also includes influenza A viruses, such as the H5 subtype that caused an outbreak in cattle in the United States. The five new bacteria include strains that cause cholera, plague, dysentery, diarrhea and pneumonia. Two rodent viruses that have jumped to humans were also added to the list due to the increased risk of transmission associated with climate change and urbanization. Nipah virus, which is carried by bats, also remained on the list due to its high mortality rate and easy transmission to animals.
Virologists point out that many pathogens are restricted to specific regions but have the potential for global spread.
The list is intended to help develop treatments, vaccines and diagnostics, it says.
