Disease X, re-emerging viral and bacterial pathogens: another deadly pandemic looming ahead – a mini review

Kannan Subbaram; Zeba Un Naher; Razana Faiz; Aminath Huda; Punya Laxmi Manandhar; Sheeza Ali; Sina Salajegheh Tazerji; Phelipe Magalhães Duarte

doi:10.5455/EJMID.20240411022823

Abstract
The World Health Organization stated that there is a strong possibility for another pandemic caused by a novel disease. This disease can be caused by an unidentified and new etiology. The World Health Organization named this disease as disease X. Scientists have commented that the disease X may be 20 times fatal than COVID-19. Apart from disease X, there are diverse group of viruses and bacteria that can contribute emerging and re-emerging pandemic diseases. In this commentary, we evaluate all probable microorganisms and diseases that has the full potential to bring out another pandemic disease. There are several bacterial, viral and other etiologic agents that are emerging as virulent pathogens. Due to change in climate, overuse of antibiotics, deforestation and change in lifestyle has resulted in the emergence of many pathogens. These diseases may not be controlled using existing antibiotics/antiviral agents. Since many of these diseases currently do not have vaccines, prophylaxis becomes difficult. All health care organizations and its staff should be prepared in the control of these emerging diseases. We focus on Ebola hemorrhagic fever, Marburg hemorrhagic fever, Middle East respiratory syndrome Coronavirus, Measles, Herpes zoster, Influenza virus type A, Hepatitis C virus, Monkeypox, Zika virus, other viral diseases and Plague (Black Death).

Key words: Disease X; Re-emerging viruses; Emerging viruses; Re-emerging bacteria; World Health Organization