As we move into 2025, the topic of infectious diseases is more relevant than ever. Many factors are making this year particularly challenging for public health in the US, from the return of familiar viruses to potential new threats, declining vaccination rates, misinformation about vaccines and even political influence. Creating a scenario that experts warn could have serious consequences. outbreak.

A bigger concern on the horizon is a potential change in leadership at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a controversial figure known for his skepticism about vaccines, may be back in the spotlight. If confirmed as the new leader of HHS, his past statements and influence could further shake public confidence in vaccines. While Kennedy insists he is not anti-vaccine, his history of promoting vaccine-related conspiracy theories raises suspicions.

So, what does this mean for 2025? Let’s take a look at five infectious diseases that experts are keeping a close eye on this year.

Bird flu made headlines in 2024, with more than 60 human cases reported worldwide. The US also saw its first serious case, but there’s a problem: There’s still no evidence of human-to-human transmission in the country.

Sounds convincing, right? Not completely. Experts like Dr. Michael Osterholm of the University of Minnesota are expressing concern. He points out that the US response to outbreaks in dairy herds has been weak. Without a concrete strategy, the risk of transmission remains.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the immediate public health risk is low, complacency is not an option. If bird flu mutates or spreads more efficiently, we could be looking at a much bigger problem.

Remember when measles was one for the history books? Well, this is an unwelcome return. The increase has come as vaccination rates have declined globally, and the US is no exception to this trend.

In 2024, the CDC reported more than 280 cases — the highest in five years. Measles is incredibly contagious, and most cases were linked to people who had not received the MMR vaccine. With exemptions for school vaccinations increasing, experts fear the situation could worsen.

Kennedy’s previous comments against the MMR vaccine only added fuel to the fire. If their views influence public policy, vaccination rates could decline further, making outbreaks more likely.

Polio may seem like a relic of the past, but it still exists. Countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan are battling this virus and as long as it is present anywhere, it can pose a threat to America.

The worrying thing is that many young parents today have not seen the devastating effects of diseases like polio, mumps or rubella. To them, these diseases may seem like distant, almost theoretical issues. However, Dr. Osterholm warns that this mindset can lead to complacency.

Although President-elect Donald Trump has expressed support for the polio vaccine, mixed messages from prominent figures such as Kennedy may still influence public opinion.

4. MPOX: Flying under the radar

mPox (formerly monkeypox) may not be making headlines like COVID-19, but it’s not dead yet. This virus, which is related to smallpox, spreads primarily by close contact and in recent outbreaks has mostly affected gay and bisexual men.

Vaccination has been an important tool, but here’s the catch: doses of the mpox vaccine, Generos, are no longer free. As cost now becomes a factor, there are concerns that those most at risk may forego vaccination.

Adding to the concern, the US recently reported the first case of the more aggressive Mpox strain in California, which is linked to travel from East Africa. Experts like Dr. Perry Halkaitis warn that we are not paying enough attention to this threat.

Finally, let’s talk about the wildcard—Disease X. The term, coined by the World Health Organization (WHO), refers to a hypothetical pathogen that could cause the next pandemic. Think of this as a reminder that we can’t predict every threat.

While Disease X is theoretical, the need for preparation is very real. A mysterious disease that recently broke out in Congo was initially named Disease X before it was identified as severe malaria. It’s a stark reminder of how quickly an unknown disease can spread fear and real harm.

As Dr. Osterholm says, “The clock on the pandemic is ticking. We don’t know what time it is.”

The 2025 scenario may seem grim, but it is not all doom and gloom. Public health experts stress that vaccines are one of our most powerful tools. Staying informed, dispelling myths, and encouraging vaccination are key steps everyone can take to protect themselves and their community.

Although challenges lie ahead, awareness and preparation can make a big difference. Let us hope that 2025 becomes a year of vigilance and action rather than regrets.

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