These diseases are likely to be the biggest emerging threats in 2025

As we step into 2025, the world faces ongoing health challenges beyond the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts warn that certain infectious diseases could emerge as significant threats, potentially affecting millions worldwide. Despite advances in medical science, diseases like bird flu, malaria, HIV and tuberculosis continue to pose serious risks. As these infections evolve, it’s crucial for health authorities to stay vigilant and prepared to tackle the next wave of public health challenges.

Bird Flu (H5N1)

Bird flu, particularly the H5N1 strain, is a virus that affects birds but has recently been found in other animals like horses and cows. The biggest worry is that it could start spreading from person to person. A recent study showed that a small change in the virus could make this possible. If that happens, the virus could become much harder to control. Health organizations around the world are watching this closely and have made plans to stop its spread if it starts affecting humans.

Malaria

Malaria is still a major health threat, especially in parts of Africa. It is caused by a parasite that spreads through mosquito bites. Even though there have been improvements in preventing malaria, like insect-repellent nets and medicines, the disease is becoming harder to treat because the parasite is developing resistance to some drugs. Climate change is also helping mosquitoes spread to new areas, making more people at risk. Malaria remains a big problem, and efforts to control it need to continue.

HIV

HIV is still a serious health issue worldwide. Even though there are medicines that help people live longer with HIV, the virus still affects millions of people. Some areas struggle with a lack of healthcare and education about the virus, and stigma around HIV makes it harder to tackle. There are also concerns about drug-resistant strains of the virus. In 2025, it will be important to keep working on prevention and treatment efforts to reduce the spread of HIV.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is another disease that continues to cause many deaths each year. TB is a bacterial infection that mostly affects the lungs and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While TB can be treated with antibiotics, drug-resistant strains of TB are making it harder to control. Poor healthcare, malnutrition, and HIV co-infection are factors that make TB harder to fight, especially in poorer countries. In 2025, TB will still be a major health challenge that requires attention.