The next viral pandemic: A call for global preparedness

Abstract

The global emergence of several major viral disease outbreaks over the last two decades represents how infectious diseases alarmingly threaten human health despite significant progress in medical advances in recent years. Therefore, it is essential to address the threat of the next viral pandemic and draw global attention to invest in research, development, and implementation of risk-reduction interventions to harness the benefits of preparedness plans aimed at minimizing the potential spread of viruses to previously affected and even unaffected regions of the world and reducing the burden of future global outbreaks. Here, we discuss six pillars of preparedness including enhancing monitoring and surveillance capabilities, developing diagnostic tools, building a robust and well-resourced healthcare system, developing effective medical countermeasures (Vaccines and treatments), and improving collaboration and financial support at both local and global levels. This letter calls for global preparedness to ensure an effective, timely, and coordinated response to future viral threats with significant importance to public health.