Disease X, a term coined for an unknown virus that could potentially wreak havoc similar to Covid-19 in the coming years, has experts worldwide on high alert. The potential impact of such a virus could include travel restrictions, national lockdowns, severe illness, and thousands of deaths.
In anticipation, global researchers are working tirelessly to prepare for this potential threat and identify possible symptoms. This preparation was expedited by the advent of Covid-19 and has continued even after the lifting of restrictions and lockdowns over three years ago.
Dr Rimas Geiga, a leading expert, warned that the initial symptoms of Disease X could mirror those of Covid-19. He cautioned: “I would expect that Disease X would likely start with common signs of infection-fever, fatigue, and muscle aches are typical early indicators.
“Respiratory symptoms could also be part of the picture, especially if the pathogen affects the lungs, but the symptoms could vary widely depending on the specific nature of the disease. In my experience, it’s always essential to stay alert to these early signs, as they could signal something more serious.”
While fever, fatigue, and muscle aches could be early indicators of the virus, the exact symptoms can only be determined once the virus is in circulation, reports GloucestershireLive.
Dr Geiga emphasises that “preparedness is key”.
He cautioned: “The world has seen how quickly an unknown disease can spread, so it’s crucial that we have the systems in place to detect, diagnose, and respond swiftly.
“Disease X could very well be the one that catches us off guard, but if we stay vigilant and ready, we can better mitigate its impact and prevent widespread devastation.”
Earlier this year, the Daily Express highlighted concerns about global readiness for Disease X, following comments from the World Health Organisation.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus issued a stark warning: “[The] key to being better prepared and to address Disease X is the pandemic agreement. It can bring all the experience, all the challenges we faced and all the solutions into one.”
He further stressed the importance of a unified approach: “This is about a common enemy. Without a shared response we will face the same problems we saw with Covid.
“If our generation cannot do it, with the firsthand experience, I don’t think the next generation will do it. We are still not prepared, but I think there are many moving parts and we have started good ones, all of us together, that can prepare us better.”