Home / Science / New viruses found yearly: Pandemic threat looms
New viruses found yearly: Pandemic threat looms
7 Jul
Summary
- Nearly 2-3 new human-infecting viruses discovered annually.
- 239 virus species found since 1901, with accelerating discovery.
- Most new viruses originate in animals, with 60 capable of human spread.
New viruses capable of infecting humans are being discovered at a rate of two to three each year, according to a major study analyzing a century of medical research. Since 1901, scientists have formally identified at least 239 distinct virus species that can infect humans. This pace has significantly accelerated in recent years, with over 20 new viruses found since 2018 alone, driven by improved genetic sequencing technology and enhanced global surveillance.
The vast majority of these viruses, at least 90%, are found in animals, which serve as their primary source. However, only about 60 of the 239 identified viruses are capable of sustained human-to-human transmission; the rest are zoonotic, spreading directly from animals to people without further transmission.
The Americas have seen the most new virus discoveries, with at least 99 identified there. While Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Oceania have also reported new viruses, experts suggest this distribution reflects scientific resources more than the actual disease burden. Researchers stress that any of these newly discovered viruses could potentially be the cause of the next pandemic, highlighting the critical need for continued research and preparedness.
