These are the deadliest pathogens in the world
According to the WHO
The World Health Organization is set to update its list of the deadliest pathogens that pose a pandemic risk and must be closely monitored. The process of updating the list has already begun and involves over 300 scientists, who will take into account 25 families of viruses and bacteria, including “Disease X”, a hitherto unknown pathogen that can cause a pandemic.
Targeting pathogens and virus species as a priority for research and development of countermeasures is extremely important for a rapid and effective response to epidemics and pandemics. Without the significant investment in research and development before the COVID-19 pandemic, it would have been impossible to develop safe and effective vaccines in record time.
The list includes SARS-Cov-2 of COVID-19, Ebola, Marburg hemorrhagic fever, Lassa fever, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 1 (SARS), Nipah virus, Zika virus and Asthenia X.
For each pathogen, researchers will note gaps in our knowledge to prioritize research. The updated list is expected to be published before April 2023.
It is worth noting that the WHO is preparing an international treaty, under which an intergovernmental negotiating body will reach an agreement that will regulate the preparation and response of nations to future pandemics. The next meeting will take place on December 5 in Geneva.
Once an outbreak is detected, the first few hours are critical for reporting, assessment and action to stop the spread of the disease before it becomes unstoppable. Our current response is not enough to underscore the urgency of preparing for Disease X or other known pathogens, or even to respond to the early stages. Since December 2019, when information about the novel coronavirus was suppressed in many countries that adopted a “wait and see” strategy and the first cases of COVID-19 were reported, we have finally seen the devastating consequences of inaction.
