UKHSA Lists 24 Priority Pathogen Families

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has released a list of 24 'priority pathogen' families to enhance preparedness against potential public health threats, focusing on those lacking adequate vaccines or treatments. This includes pathogens like coronaviridae, paramyxoviridae, and orthomyxoviridae, with the aim to guide research and investment towards vaccines and diagnostics. The initiative is part of efforts to prevent the slow response seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure readiness against future health crises. The report also highlights the re-emergence and rise of infectious diseases in England, attributing it partly to increased social mixing post-pandemic. New public health interventions, such as RSV vaccine programs, have shown positive impacts, notably reducing hospital admissions among the elderly. Tuberculosis and other vaccine-preventable infections have seen increased incidences, necessitating further scientific and healthcare measures.