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Just a few years ago, we were confined to our homes, wearing masks when we were allowed to venture out, and wondering how long we would be locked down for.
Weddings were postponed, people died without their loved one being able to say goodbye, and other people became something to be scared of, in case they were carrying the virus.
Now, in 2026, it feels almost like everything has gone back to normal – like the lockdown years were something from a weird dream.
But could it happen again? Could it be soon?
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New viruses are constantly circulating the world: that’s something that virus expert Dr was keen to make clear in a recent article for The Conversation.
And the way that we live our lives now, moving rapidly around the world, living in closer and closer confines, makes these viruses even easier to spread.
In his article, Dr Jackson outlined three viruses that could be of concern in 2026 – Influenza A, Mpox, and Oropouche virus – and their current status.
And concerningly, the first of these – Influenza A – is described as ‘on the cusp of a pandemic.’ This rapidly-mutating virus is concerning scientists because the H5N1 strain (avian influenza) has spread to cattle, and has then been passed onto humans. As Dr Jackson explains, the biggest concern is the idea of those who contracted it from cows passing it on to other people:
“In 2026, scientists will continue to look for any evidence that H5N1 has changed enough to be transmitted from human to human – a necessary step for the start of a new influenza pandemic. The influenza vaccines currently on the market probably don’t offer protection from H5N1, but scientists are working to create vaccines that would be effective against the virus.”
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But what of the other two viruses? Well Mpox (a virus related to smallpox) is currently spreading through the world. Currently, a variant known as clade I mpox is circulating countries including the US.
The condition, often transmitted between intimate partners, can be vaccinated against but for which there is no current treatment, results in a high fever and a very painful rash that can last for multiple weeks.
As for the Oropouche virus? Well this virus, which causes persistent and sometimes recurring bouts of weakness, a fever and head and muscle aches, is spread by mosquitos and midges, and is also currently spreading through South America, Central America, and the US.
The takeaway? Get your vaccinations, and keep them up to date. Be aware when you’re traveling, and take precautions during any intimate activities.
If we want to avoid another situation like covid, it’s important we all take care.
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