Four Viruses That Could Spark the Next Pandemic

The world is on high alert. Experts are keeping a close eye on four viruses that could cause the next big health crisis. These viruses are mpox, rubella, bird flu (H5N1), and Oropouche. They are not new, but they are changing and spreading in ways that worry scientists. Mpox, once rare, is now a global problem. New strains are popping up, and the virus is not going away. In 2022, it spread to over 100 countries. By the end of 2025, a new, more dangerous strain was found in England. This strain is spreading locally, not just through travel. Rubella is another concern. It was almost gone thanks to vaccines, but now fewer people are getting vaccinated. This means the virus could come back and cause serious problems, especially for pregnant women. If a pregnant woman gets rubella, it can harm her baby. In 2025, measles cases surged in the UK, showing that vaccine rates are too low.Bird flu, or H5N1, is also a threat. It has been around for a while, but this strain is particularly dangerous. It has spread from birds to mammals and can even be found in milk. Experts say as long as it is infecting humans, it could cause a pandemic. Oropouche virus, also known as 'sloth fever, ' is spreading too. It is carried by midges and can cause symptoms like muscle aches and vomiting. Cases have been reported in Europe, and experts think it will continue to spread in the Americas. These viruses are not guaranteed to cause a pandemic. But experts say we need to be prepared. They warn that low vaccination rates, weak surveillance, and climate change are making the situation worse. The key to prevention is being vigilant and taking action before it's too late.