Post-COVID improved testing reveals previously undiagnosed viruses, says former WHO chief scientist

Concerns over the potential for a new pandemic have been raised by recent reports of an increase in respiratory diseases in China.

The World Health Organization's (WHO) former Chief Scientist, Saumya Swaminathan, ensures that these diseases are mainly seasonal and do not indicate the beginning of a new global health crisis.

Swaminathan claims that rather than a spike in new viruses, the increase in reported illnesses is mostly attributable to better monitoring systems and improved virus detection.

Many of the viruses being found, like Mycoplasma pneumoniae and human metapneumovirus (HMPV), are not brand-new, according to Swaminathan.

Instead, after the COVID-19 pandemic, improved diagnostic capabilities have made them easier to diagnose.

In the past, these viruses—which cause illnesses including pneumonia and bronchitis—were not widely known.

Swaminathan explained that more viruses that were previously ignored or undiagnosed have been identified as a result of the enhanced virus detection infrastructure that is already in existence globally.

Therefore, the current increase in cases should be interpreted as a result of more extensive surveillance rather than a sign of a new viral threat.

Even while these infections are seasonal, researchers agree that there is still a considerable danger of new viruses arising.

She cautioned that the risk of zoonotic diseases—diseases that are spread from animals to people—increases as human activities intrude more and more on wildlife habitats.

Wild creatures like elephants, tigers, and bison are commonly found in human habitats, and the illegal wildlife trade makes it easier for viruses to spread between species.

Wet marketplaces, such as those in Wuhan, increase the likelihood of animal-to-human transmission, according to Swaminathan.

Larger outbreaks can result from alterations in some of these viruses, even though they frequently cease at just one case.

Additionally, novel viruses can spread swiftly due to the increased worldwide movement of people via air travel, transforming a local outbreak into a global health concern.

Experts support improved surveillance systems that can identify viruses before they spread widely in order to reduce these hazards.

These methods include sero-surveillance, which tests blood samples for antibodies against particular diseases, and early detection through a variety of surveillance techniques, such as monitoring wastewater for viral RNA.

By taking a preventive approach, the likelihood of widespread epidemics can be decreased by identifying possible dangers early.

In order to stop respiratory illnesses from spreading, vaccination is essential.

Swaminathan and other medical professionals stress the significance of yearly mass immunization programs against the flu.

Even though they are not always effective against viruses, flu shots are crucial for preventing serious illness and death, especially in vulnerable populations.

Swaminathan emphasized that future outbreaks can be avoided by implementing the "One Health" concept, which highlights the connection between environmental, animal, and human health.

The One Health strategy seeks to treat the underlying causes of zoonotic diseases and lower the likelihood that these illnesses may spread to human populations by encouraging cooperation between these sectors.

India, which has recently seen a number of public health issues, is also taking action to get ready for any future outbreaks.

A report titled "Future Pandemic Preparedness and Emergency Response: A Framework for Action" was recently released by the nation's policy think tank, Niti Aayog.

With an emphasis on the lessons discovered during the COVID-19 pandemic, this report presents a plan for enhancing India's response to public health emergency situations.

Enhancing surveillance systems, funding vaccines, medication, and diagnostic research and development, and creating a more robust healthcare system with sufficient infrastructure and medical staff are some of the main proposals.

The research also highlights the necessity of public health awareness programs to inform the public about vaccinations, proper cleanliness, and the appropriate use of antibiotics.

Experts like Swaminathan also emphasize the necessity of updated public health laws, given the dynamic nature of global health concerns.

Originally passed to combat the bubonic plague in Mumbai, the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 is currently regarded as antiquated and unable to address contemporary public health crises.

In order to address current biological dangers and establish a legal framework for emergency response, Swaminathan and other specialists contend that new law is necessary.

There is no immediate fear of a worldwide pandemic, according to specialists like Saumya Swaminathan, despite ongoing worries about the growth in respiratory diseases like HMPV in China.

There are currently no signs that a new virus with pandemic potential has surfaced, and the World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities keeping an eye on the situation have not issued any alerts.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, surveillance technologies have grown more reliable and aid in promptly detecting any possible dangers.

Swaminathan said that health professionals can now stay up to date in real time as many nations post information about virus strains and mutations on open-source platforms.

Experts caution the public against panicking despite the alarming increase in respiratory diseases.

In order to manage the issue, sensible steps are crucial, including being vaccinated, maintaining proper hygiene, and acting according to local health authorities' advice.