The Insight Corner Hub: Coronavirus or Influenza? Bacteria or Fungi? Experts Share Where the Next Pandemic Could Come From

Abstract

The world has experienced multiple pandemics in the last century, with COVID-19 and influenza being the most recent examples. But the question remains: where could the next pandemic originate, and what could be the agents responsible; coronavirus, influenza, bacteria, fungi, or something entirely different? In this article, we explore expert opinions and research on the potential sources and agents of future pandemics and the strategies to mitigate the risks.

Introduction

Pandemics, like COVID-19 and influenza, have had devastating consequences on public health and global economies. Experts worldwide are continuously monitoring and researching potential sources of future pandemics to better prepare for and mitigate their impact. In this article, we examine the possibilities of the next pandemic, considering agents such as coronavirus, influenza, bacteria, fungi, and other emerging threats.

1. Coronavirus: A Persistent Threat

Coronaviruses, which include those responsible for COVID-19 and the earlier SARS outbreak, have been a persistent threat to global health. Experts are concerned about the potential for future coronaviruses to jump from animals to humans, especially in regions where wildlife trade and close animal-human interaction are common. Increased surveillance and the development of vaccines targeting broad-spectrum coronaviruses are essential in combating this threat (Wong M. C. S. et al., 2021).

2. Influenza: A Shifting Target

Influenza, a familiar adversary, has the capacity to undergo frequent genetic changes, resulting in new strains that can lead to pandemics. Experts emphasize the importance of global influenza surveillance and the development of vaccines that can provide broader protection against multiple influenza strains, reducing the risk of pandemics (Krammer F., 2019).

3. Bacteria: Antibiotic Resistance

Bacterial infections, especially those resistant to antibiotics, pose a significant threat. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria can result in infections that are challenging to treat. Experts stress the importance of antibiotic stewardship and the development of novel antibiotics to counter the spread of drug-resistant bacteria (Tacconelli E. et al., 2018).

Read also: Forgotten Antibiotic from Decades Ago May Be a Superbug Killer

4. Fungi: The Silent Threat

Fungal infections, though often overlooked, are a growing concern. The rise of drug-resistant fungi, particularly Candida and Aspergillus species, presents challenges for healthcare. Experts highlight the need for improved antifungal therapies and increased awareness of fungal infections in clinical settings (Bongomin F. et al., 2017).

5. Emerging Pathogens: Unknown Risks

The next pandemic may not be caused by familiar agents but by emerging pathogens that are not yet identified. Experts emphasize the importance of continued surveillance, research, and international cooperation to rapidly respond to new threats (Morens D. M. et al., 2013).

Conclusion

The next pandemic could originate from a variety of sources, including coronaviruses, influenza, bacteria, fungi, or entirely new and emerging pathogens. To effectively prepare for and mitigate these risks, experts stress the importance of global surveillance, research, and cooperation. Anticipating and responding to potential pandemic threats is a shared responsibility, and our collective efforts are crucial to preventing and managing future global health crises.

References:

1. Wong, M. C. S., Javornik Cregeen, S. J., & Griffiths, S. M. (2021). The emerging threat of zoonotic diseases from the Chinese wildlife trade. Social Science & Medicine, 268, 113367.
2. Krammer, F. (2019). The human antibody response to influenza A virus infection and vaccination. Nature Reviews Immunology, 19(6), 383-397.
3. Tacconelli, E., Carrara, E., Savoldi, A., Harbarth, S., Mendelson, M., Monnet, D. L., ... & Voss, A. (2018). Discovery, research, and development of new antibiotics: the WHO priority list of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and tuberculosis. The Lancet Infectious Diseases, 18(3), 318-327.
4. Bongomin, F., Gago, S., Oladele, R. O., & Denning, D. W. (2017). Global and multi-national prevalence of fungal diseases—estimate precision. Journal of Fungi, 3(4), 57.
5. Morens, D. M., Fauci, A. S., & Fauci, A. S. (2013). Emerging infectious diseases: threats to human health and global stability. PLoS Pathogens, 9(7), e1003467.