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Identifying the panorama of potential pandemic pathogens and their key characteristics: a systematic scoping review
Yara Khachab1, Antoine Saab2, Christo El Morr3
1Laboratory Department, Lebanese Hospital Geitaoui-University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
Abstract:
The globe has recently seen several terrifying pandemics and outbreaks, underlining the ongoing danger presented by infectious microorganisms. This literature review aims to explore the wide range of infections that have the potential to lead to pandemics in the present and the future and pave the way to the conception of epidemic early warning systems. A systematic review was carried out to identify and compile data on infectious agents known to cause pandemics and those that pose future concerns. One hundred and fifteen articles were included in the review. They provided insights on 25 pathogens that could start or contribute to creating pandemic situations. Diagnostic procedures, clinical symptoms, and infection transmission routes were analyzed for each of these pathogens. Each infectious agent's potential is discussed, shedding light on the crucial aspects that render them potential threats to the future. This literature review provides insights for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers in their quest to identify potential pandemic pathogens, and in their efforts to enhance pandemic preparedness through building early warning systems for continuous epidemiological monitoring.
Insights
Recent pandemics highlight infectious disease threats. This review identifies 25 potential pandemic pathogens and analyzes their risks, informing early warning systems for global health security.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Global health is threatened by emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, necessitating proactive measures.
- Recent pandemics underscore the critical need to understand and prepare for microbial threats.
- Existing surveillance systems require enhancement to effectively monitor potential pandemic agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comprehensive literature review on pathogens with pandemic potential.
- To identify and analyze infectious agents posing current and future pandemic risks.
- To inform the development of robust epidemic early warning systems.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review methodology was employed.
- Data from 115 articles were synthesized.
- Analysis focused on 25 identified pathogens, including diagnostics, symptoms, and transmission.
Main Results:
- Twenty-five pathogens with pandemic potential were identified and characterized.
- Key aspects contributing to pandemic potential were analyzed for each pathogen.
- Insights into diagnostic procedures, clinical manifestations, and transmission dynamics were compiled.
Conclusions:
- Understanding pathogen characteristics is crucial for pandemic preparedness.
- The findings support the development of early warning systems for epidemiological monitoring.
- This review offers valuable information for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers in mitigating future pandemic threats.
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