Pandemic warning: expert says some viruses are poised for 2026

A disease expert warned that mpox and Oropouche are poised to spread in 2026; the UK Health Security Agency has identified clade I mpox in the UK and travel-related Oropouche cases have been reported in the USA and Europe.

Prof Jackson warned that several viruses are likely to be of concern in 2026 and described current patterns seen for mpox and Oropouche. He said mpox remains a global risk and that different clades have produced outbreaks since 2022. A vaccine for mpox exists, though he noted there are no proven treatments. He also described Oropouche as an insect-transmitted virus that has spread across parts of the Americas. Key points: - Prof Jackson reported that mpox remains a worldwide risk and that clade I infections have increased, with cases since August 2025 reported in the US and the UK Health Security Agency confirming clade I infections in the UK. - A vaccine for mpox is available, but there are currently no proven treatments; clade II mpox became established internationally after the 2022 outbreak. - Oropouche virus, transmitted by mosquitoes and small biting midges and first identified in Trinidad and Tobago, has expanded across South and Central America and the Caribbean, and a small number of travel-related cases have been reported in the USA and Europe, including Britain. Summary: The expert said these viruses could continue to spread and public health agencies have reported cases across multiple countries. Undetermined at this time.