What is Disease X?
- Placeholder term for unknown pathogens with pandemic potential.
- Concept introduced by WHO in 2018.
Relevance : GS 2(Health)
Current Concerns:
- Recent unclassified outbreak in DRC claimed 400+ lives.
- Drivers include zoonotic spillovers, deforestation, and climate change.
Challenges in Prediction:
- Emergence influenced by urbanization and environmental disruptions.
- Over 1.7 million undiscovered viruses pose risks.
Preparation Strategies:
- Surveillance: Use AI and genomic sequencing for early detection.
- Healthcare: Strengthen systems, especially in low-income regions.
- Research: Invest in vaccine platforms like CEPI.
- Collaboration: Promote global frameworks like the Pandemic Treaty.
