Fear not! Disease X may not exist yet, but the concept serves as a critical placeholder for an unforeseen infectious threat that has the potential to trigger an epidemic or, on a larger scale, a pandemic. Coined by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2017, Disease X encompasses both newly discovered pathogens and known ones that acquire the potential to cause widespread health crises, exemplified by the emergence of COVID-19 as the inaugural Disease X.
The urgency surrounding Disease X has resurfaced during the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasizes the importance of anticipating potential health threats rather than succumbing to panic, citing historical precedents of pandemics that have reshaped the course of human history. Preparedness, he asserts, is the key to mitigating the impact of any future Disease X.
As the world grapples with the uncertainty of what Disease X might entail, attention turns to potential candidates. Coronaviruses, a diverse family of viruses, have long been considered prime contenders due to their ability to cause severe respiratory illnesses. The precedent set by the outbreaks of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) underscores the persistent threat posed by coronaviruses. However, advancements in antibody prevalence resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic may offer some protection against future coronavirus-related pandemics.
Beyond coronaviruses, other infectious diseases loom as potential global threats. Influenza strains, responsible for historical pandemics such as the infamous “Spanish flu” in 1918, continue to be a concern. Recent outbreaks of virulent bird flu strains, capable of crossing from birds to mammals, highlight the ever-present danger of zoonotic diseases. Additionally, diseases like Ebola and Zika, with their severe and far-reaching consequences, remain on the radar of global health organizations.
Fortunately, lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic have paved the way for advancements in vaccine technology. The development of innovative vaccine designs, including mRNA-based vaccines, offers a promising avenue for rapid adaptation to new pathogens. The flexibility of these vaccines allows for quick modifications to target different proteins, offering a versatile defence against emerging infectious threats.
Addressing the challenge of Disease X requires a multifaceted approach. Improving early warning systems for new diseases and enhancing the resilience of health services to sudden surges in demand are crucial steps, according to Tedros. The shortcomings exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as strained hospital capacities and insufficient resources, underscore the need for proactive measures. Tedros emphasizes the importance of ensuring health services can expand their capacity on demand, irrespective of the specific nature of Disease X.
In essence, Disease X serves as more than a hypothetical menace; it acts as a call to action. By remaining vigilant, advancing scientific research, and fortifying global health systems, humanity can navigate the uncertainties of the future and stand resilient against whatever infectious challenges Disease X may bring.