Explained | Disease X: Tracking the next pandemic Premium
The Hindu
What steps is the WHO taking to stay ahead of future public health crises?
The story so far: World Health Organisation (WHO) on Monday said that it is updating the list of priority pathogens that “pose the greatest public health risk due to their epidemic potential and/or whether there is no or insufficient countermeasures”.
The process, which started on Friday, involves more than 300 scientists from across the world , considering evidence on around 25 virus families and bacteria, as well as “Disease X”. The process is expected to guide global investment and research and development(R&D) in vaccines, tests, and treatments.
Currently, Covid-19 is at the top of the priority disease list.
Disease X refers to an unknown pathogen that can cause the next pandemic. It is part of WHO’s priority diseases list prepared for R&D in a public health emergency context. According to WHO, it represents “the knowledge that a serious international epidemic could be caused by a pathogen currently unknown to cause human disease”.
Bengaluru commuters demand platform screen doors for safety, but high costs and engineering challenges hinder implementation on existing metro routes.
Madras HC to hear appeals on December 12 regarding the lighting of Mahadeepam at Thirupparankundram temple.
N. Ram warns that hate politics threatens India’s democracy, urging the South to remain a bastion against these forces.
Nanjil Sampath joins Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, revitalizing his political career after six years away from party politics.
D.K. Shivakumar announces that five Blue Line stations will open once construction is completed, enhancing Bengaluru's airport connectivity.
Russia begins fuel shipments for Kudankulam's third reactor, enhancing efficiency and extending operational cycles for the nuclear power project.
Supreme Court urges governments to simplify administration, warning that excessive rules may lead to judicial review and citizen burdens.
Trinamool MP Shatabdi Roy's remarks on Bangla-speaking deportations spark protests in Lok Sabha, igniting a heated political debate.
Sunali Khatun returns to India with her son after six months in Bangladesh, following Supreme Court intervention.
Warangal will be developed on the lines of Hyderabad, says Revanth
Three-tier security measures and traffic restrictions are in place for the India-South Africa ODI match in Vizag.
A seven-year-old girl dies from severe dengue shock syndrome in Bengaluru, highlighting the challenges faced by migrant families in healthcare access.
DGP reviews security arrangements for Global Summit