Virologist Explains Why We’re Seeing So Many Viruses Emerge

From the widespread outbreak of Mpox (formerly called monkeypox) in 2022, to the evolving bird flu situation, to recent cases of Marburg virus in Equatorial Guinea, Covid-19 isn't dominating the headlines as much as it used to. Instead, we've been regularly hearing about outbreaks of newly emerging or re-emerging viruses, writes lecturer in Virology Lindsay Broadbent for The Conversation.

There are an estimated 1.67 million viruses yet to be identified that currently infect mammals and birds. Of these, it is thought that up to 827,000 have the potential to infect humans. The main drivers of viral emergence in the human population are humans and their actions.

As human civilisation and technology advanced, the destruction of animal habitats forced animals into new areas in search of food sources. Different species that wouldn't usually have been in contact were now sharing the same environment. Add humans into this equation and you have the perfect recipe for a new virus to emerge.

Urbanisation leads to high population density, creating an ideal environment for viruses to spread. The rapid development of towns and cities often outpaces adequate infrastructure such as sanitation and healthcare, further increasing the likelihood of virus outbreaks.

Climate change is also contributing to the spread of viruses. For example, arboviruses (viruses spread by arthropods like mosquitoes) are being detected in new areas because the range of countries mosquitoes can survive in is increasing.