The possibility of a new pandemic in the coming years is no longer just a theoretical threat. Infectious disease specialists are already sounding the alarm: four viruses, each capable of triggering a large-scale crisis, are gaining ground and could disrupt the daily lives of millions. In the spotlight are not only exotic pathogens, but also familiar ones to Europeans that have developed new and dangerous characteristics.
A decline in collective immunity, society’s fatigue with restrictions, and the rapid cross-species spread of viruses are creating ideal conditions for the emergence of the so-called ‘Disease X.’ This term is increasingly used among medical professionals to describe an unknown but potentially devastating infection that could catch humanity off guard. By 2026, the threat has become more real than ever.
Viruses at the starting line
The list of potential culprits for the next pandemic includes four viruses: monkeypox (Mpox), avian influenza H5N1, rubella, and the Oropouche virus. Each has unique characteristics that make it dangerous for the population of Europe and the world. Monkeypox, previously seen as a rare disease, has in recent years spread beyond its traditional regions and started appearing in cities where it had never been documented before.
The H5N1 avian influenza is causing particular concern among experts. Since 2020, this virus has not only mutated but also learned to infect mammals, which greatly increases the risk of it adapting to humans. Outbreaks among animals have already resulted in mass culling of poultry and economic losses, and now the threat is looming over people as well.
Rubella and Oropouche: forgotten dangers
Rubella, which many believed had been defeated thanks to vaccination, is returning due to declining immunization coverage. Some European countries are reporting local outbreaks, and experts warn that the virus could quickly spread among unprotected groups. This is especially dangerous for pregnant women and children, for whom rubella can have severe consequences.
The Oropouche virus, previously known only in South America, has unexpectedly begun to spread across Europe. It is transmitted by mosquitoes, and its symptoms resemble the flu, making diagnosis difficult. Its rapid spread and the absence of specific treatments make Oropouche a serious public health threat.
Europe under threat
The situation is complicated by the fact that Europe proved unprepared for a new wave of epidemics. After the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries eased sanitary measures and the public grew weary of constant restrictions. Meanwhile, vaccination rates for several infections have dropped, paving the way for the return of forgotten diseases.
Experts note that modern viruses have a high capacity for rapid evolution. This means that even familiar pathogens can unexpectedly change their properties, becoming more contagious or dangerous. In the context of globalization and active migration flows, new strains can spread across entire continents in just a matter of weeks.
What to do and who is at risk
Doctors and epidemiologists urge people not to ignore alarming signals. Special attention is given to high-risk groups: the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses. For them, the consequences of infection can be especially severe. At the same time, experts emphasize the importance of timely vaccination and adherence to basic hygiene measures.
Authorities in European countries are already discussing possible scenarios for responding to new threats. Among the proposed measures are strengthening epidemiological surveillance, expanding vaccination programs, and informing the public about the risks. However, as recent years have shown, the success of the fight against a pandemic depends not only on government decisions, but also on the willingness of society to adapt to change.
Avian influenza H5N1 is one of the most dangerous viruses with the potential to trigger a new pandemic. In recent years, it has evolved from local outbreaks among birds to cases of mammal infection, which was previously considered impossible. The virus mutates rapidly and can cross species barriers, making it especially unpredictable. H5N1 outbreaks have already led to significant economic losses in agriculture and caused alarm among experts worldwide. Despite containment efforts, the virus continues to evolve, and scientists warn that in the near future, it could efficiently spread from person to person, which would be disastrous for the healthcare system.
