Identifying the panorama of potential pandemic pathogens and their key characteristics: a systematic scoping review

Abstract

The globe has recently seen several terrifying pandemics and outbreaks, underlining the ongoing danger presented by infectious microorganisms. This literature review aims to explore the wide range of infections that have the potential to lead to pandemics in the present and the future and pave the way to the conception of epidemic early warning systems. A systematic review was carried out to identify and compile data on infectious agents known to cause pandemics and those that pose future concerns. One hundred and fifteen articles were included in the review. They provided insights on 25 pathogens that could start or contribute to creating pandemic situations. Diagnostic procedures, clinical symptoms, and infection transmission routes were analyzed for each of these pathogens. Each infectious agent’s potential is discussed, shedding light on the crucial aspects that render them potential threats to the future. This literature review provides insights for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers in their quest to identify potential pandemic pathogens, and in their efforts to enhance pandemic preparedness through building early warning systems for continuous epidemiological monitoring.

Keywords:

• Pathogens
• emergence
• future
• pandemics
• warning systems

Author contributions

Dr. Christo El Morr, Dr. Antoine Saab, Dr. Yahya El-Lahib, and Dr. Elie Salem Sokhn designed the project and received the funds. Ms. Yara Khachab analyzed the data, extracted the main results, and wrote the review. Dr. Elie Salem Sokhn initiated this study, participated in discussions related to the results, and provided revisions to the manuscript. Dr. Antoine Saab contributed by offering advice on study methodology, content, data presentation, results discussion, and revising the manuscript. Dr. Christo El Morr and Dr. Yahya El-Lahib revised and approved the manuscript.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

All data relevant to the study is included in the article.

Additional information

Funding

This research is funded by Canada’s International Development Research Center (IDRC) [Grant No. 109981].