The list of 24 pathogen families is the first to consider global health threats, as well as threats specific to the UK population.
UK health officials published a "priority pathogen" list of 24 virus and bacteria families posing the greatest public health threat, both globally and within the UK. Created by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the list aims to guide research, vaccine development, and preparedness for future pandemics, considering factors like disease severity, transmission routes, climate change sensitivity, vaccine availability, and drug resistance. High-risk viral families include coronaviridae and orthomyxoviridae. The list informs the UK's Biological Security Strategy and involves collaboration with global partners like the World Health Organization.
