Emerging Viral Threats in the Post-Pandemic Era: Surveillance, Climate Dynamics, and Global Health Preparedness

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored global vulnerabilities to emerging viruses. In the post-pandemic era, other pathogens such as dengue, mpox (monkeypox), avian influenza (H5N1), and Oropouche virus pose significant threats. This paper reviews recent outbreaks, the role of climate change in expanding viral ranges, and the importance of integrated surveillance and preparedness. We analyze publicly available outbreak data and modeling studies to illustrate trends. For example, global WHO data (1996-2023) document 3,013 outbreak events, with countries like the DRC and China reporting hundreds. Climate warming is facilitating vector expansion: one model projects ~60% of the world’s population will be at dengue risk by 2080. Key emerging viruses are examined as case studies: dengue’s record 2023 epidemic (~5.0 million cases), the 2022 mpox multi-country outbreak, recent H5N1 clusters in Asia, and a surge of Oropouche in South America (Clarke et al., 2024). We emphasize the need for One Health approaches and global coordination. Enhanced genomic, epidemiological, and environmental surveillance-coupled with climate-informed risk assessments-are crucial to prepare for future viral threats.