British health chiefs have issued a stark warning about 24 deadly viruses that could trigger the next pandemic – known as ‘Disease X’.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) identified four virus families currently circulating that pose the greatest threat.
Among these, experts warn that a measles-like virus could be “considerably more dangerous than Covid”.
One professor at the University of Edinburgh suggested that some viruses on the list might be “impossible to control by even the strictest lockdown”.
One of the concerning pathogens belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, which includes measles, mumps and some respiratory tract infections, as well as the Nipah virus – which can cause brain swelling and death.
Recently, measles cases have surged across England, with 2,911 confirmed cases last year – the highest number since 2012.
The disease primarily affects children and can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, eye inflammation, vision loss, and brain inflammation, which can in turn result in seizures, hearing loss and permanent brain damage.
Edinburgh University’s Mark Woolhouse explained that scientists are most concerned about a measles-type virus which would “pose a threat far worse than Covid”.
He also warned such a virus would have a much higher infection rate than the original variants of Covid, making it “impossible to control by even the strictest lockdown”.
“This is the kind of pandemic that public health agencies around the world are most concerned about,” Professor Woolhouse added.
Measles poses an additional danger beyond its immediate symptoms, as it can severely damage the immune system.
A 2019 Harvard Medical School study revealed that measles can erase up to 75 per cent of antibodies which fight against viruses or bacteria that a child was previously immune to.
The disease effectively wipes the memory of our immune systems, which has led health experts to warn that a large measles outbreak might consequently lead to a national rise in other infections.
The other three virus families on the UKHSA watchlist include the Picornaviridae family, which triggers polio-like diseases, including acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a rare condition causing muscle weakness and paralysis.
Earlier this year, a 15-year-old boy from Rochdale was left paralysed in January after contracting AFM.
Coronaviruses such as Covid-19 and MERS, which has killed more than 900 people, are also being monitored.
The fourth family is Orthomyxoviridae, which includes bird flu.
This virus has already been detected in one British farmer who had contact with infected birds, while a sheep in northern England has also been detected recently.
Chief Scientific Officer for UKHSA Professor Isabel Oliver said: “We are using the tool as part of our conversations with the scientific community, to help ensure that investment is focused to where it can have the biggest impact.
“We hope this will help to speed up vaccine and diagnostics development where it is most needed, to ensure we are fully prepared in our fight against potentially deadly pathogens.”
Lucky Items for Each Zodiac Sign When Leaving the House
Each zodiac sign has unique traits, and carrying the right lucky item can help enhance confidence, attract positivity, and ward off negative energy. Here’s a detailed guide to the best lucky item for each zodiac sign, along with its estimated luck-boosting percentage when stepping out of the house!
♈ Aries (March 21 – April 19) – Red Bracelet (Luck: 85%)
Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of energy and action. A red bracelet enhances Aries’ natural confidence and drive, helping them stay focused and fearless. Red symbolizes power, passion, and determination, giving Aries an extra push to succeed in their daily ventures.
🔮 Why it works: Red is Aries’ power color, and a bracelet worn on the dominant hand acts as a talisman for success and courage.
♉ Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – Small Jade Stone (Luck: 80%)
Taurus is an earth sign ruled by Venus, which governs beauty, stability, and wealth. A jade stone is a powerful amulet for attracting prosperity and grounding energy.
🔮 Why it works: Jade is known to bring financial luck and emotional balance, keeping Taurus calm and focused throughout the day.
♊ Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – Silver Keychain (Luck: 75%)
Gemini thrives on communication and new experiences. A silver keychain symbolizes opportunities and open doors, attracting luck in networking, career, and personal encounters.
🔮 Why it works: Silver is a protective metal that enhances clarity and intuition, while a key symbolizes unlocking possibilities.
♋ Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – Moon-Shaped Pendant (Luck: 90%)
Cancer is deeply connected to the Moon, which governs emotions and intuition. Wearing a moon-shaped pendant offers emotional balance, protection, and luck in decision-making.
🔮 Why it works: The Moon influences Cancer’s energy, and a pendant amplifies their intuition, helping them navigate daily challenges with ease.
♌ Leo (July 23 – August 22) – Gold Accessory (Luck: 88%)
Leos are ruled by the Sun, radiating confidence and charisma. A gold accessory (ring, necklace, or bracelet) amplifies their natural glow, attracting admiration and success.
🔮 Why it works: Gold represents strength, royalty, and power, making Leo shine even brighter in social and professional settings.
♍ Virgo (August 23 – September 22) – Neatly Folded Handkerchief (Luck: 70%)
Virgos are meticulous and value order. Carrying a neatly folded handkerchief ensures they feel prepared and composed, reducing anxiety and inviting good fortune.
🔮 Why it works: A handkerchief symbolizes cleanliness and organization, which helps Virgos maintain control over their surroundings.
♎ Libra (September 23 – October 22) – Rose Quartz Crystal (Luck: 85%)
Libras seek harmony and love, and a rose quartz crystal enhances their ability to attract positive relationships and avoid conflicts.
🔮 Why it works: Rose quartz emits a gentle, loving energy that helps Libras maintain balance and charm in their interactions.
♏ Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) – Black Obsidian Stone (Luck: 92%)
Scorpios have intense energy and need protection from negativity. A black obsidian stone shields them from harmful influences while boosting their personal power.
🔮 Why it works: Black obsidian absorbs negative energy and strengthens Scorpios’ natural resilience and intuition.
♐ Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) – Feather Charm (Luck: 78%)
Sagittarius is adventurous and always seeking new experiences. A feather charm symbolizes freedom, luck, and spiritual guidance, ensuring a smooth journey ahead.
🔮 Why it works: Feathers represent travel, wisdom, and divine protection, keeping Sagittarius safe and inspired.
♑ Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) – Lucky Coin (Luck: 88%)
Capricorns are ambitious and hardworking. Carrying a lucky coin attracts wealth, success, and stability in their professional and personal lives.
🔮 Why it works: A coin is a universal symbol of prosperity and financial growth, aligning with Capricorn’s disciplined nature.
♒ Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) – Blue Pendant (Luck: 82%)
Aquarius is innovative and intuitive. A blue pendant enhances their creativity, wisdom, and ability to make good decisions.
🔮 Why it works: Blue represents clarity and intelligence, helping Aquarius navigate daily encounters with ease.
♓ Pisces (February 19 – March 20) – Seashell or Pearl (Luck: 90%)
Pisces is deeply connected to the ocean, and a seashell or pearl provides emotional calmness, inspiration, and protection.
🔮 Why it works: Water elements soothe Pisces’ sensitive soul, keeping them in tune with their intuition and creativity.
Carrying a small lucky item that resonates with your zodiac sign can subtly influence your day in positive ways. While luck is never guaranteed, these items serve as symbols of encouragement, motivation, and protection.