Patrick Jackson, MD
Patrick Jackson, MD, an associate professor of infectious diseases, was featured in national and international media outlets—including The Washington Post and The Independent—discussing the viruses he will be monitoring in 2026.
Viruses are constantly evolving, and a warming, more densely populated planet is increasing human contact with a wider range of viruses. Greater global mobility allows those viruses to spread rapidly alongside their human hosts. Dr. Jackson will be keeping an eye on several viruses that could be poised to cause infections in unexpected places or in unexpected numbers:
- Bird flu or avian influenza A — on the cusp of a pandemic
- Mpox — worldwide and liable to worsen
- Oropouche virus — insect-borne and poised to spread
Around the world, humans, animals, and the environment are interconnected. Monitoring both known and emerging viruses, along with developing new vaccines and treatments, is key to keeping everyone safe.
Read full article at the Washington Post (subscription may be required).
Filed Under: Media Highlights