COVID-19 showed the world just how devastating an outbreak can be, and now experts are cautioning that 2025 may bring its own set of dangerous diseases.

From the resurgence of old threats like whooping cough and measles to new, unpredictable dangers such as Disease X, the global health landscape remains uncertain. Here are 11 infections that could pose serious risks in the coming years.

1. Bird Flu

Though primarily affecting birds, bird flu can also infect horses and, in rare cases, humans. While transmission between humans has been extremely limited so far, fatalities have occurred after direct contact with infected poultry. If the virus mutates to spread easily from person to person, it could become a serious global threat.

2. Antimicrobial-Resistant Bacteria

Some bacteria have evolved to resist antibiotics, leading to over a million deaths annually. This growing antimicrobial resistance has health experts scrambling to develop new treatments. Without breakthroughs by 2025, drug-resistant infections could become one of the deadliest health crises of the year.

3. Cholera

Cholera spreads through contaminated food and water, and its outbreaks are often worsened by climate change, displacement, and natural disasters. While vaccine production has increased, shortages persist. With up to 4 million cases reported each year, cholera remains a significant concern—especially if global conditions worsen.

4. Chikungunya

This mosquito-borne virus causes severe joint pain and fever that can last for months or even years. Cases are nearing half a million worldwide. However, there is some hope, as a vaccine is currently in development that could help curb its spread.

5. COVID-19

The pandemic isn’t over. In 2025, a new Omicron subvariant known as XEC has taken center stage. Vaccines remain the best defense, and experts continue to stress the importance of staying up to date on immunizations. COVID has permanently altered how we handle pandemics, serving as a stark reminder of why we must remain vigilant.

6. Dengue Fever

By April 2024, dengue cases had soared past 7.6 million, with thousands of deaths reported. Mosquito control measures and a new vaccine are helping to slow its spread, but the sharp rise in cases—especially in tropical regions—remains alarming.

7. Measles

Though many assume measles is a disease of the past, falling vaccination rates during the pandemic have led to a resurgence. Some regions have seen a sharp increase in cases, proving that this virus can still be deadly if immunization efforts don’t improve.

8. Disease X

Though it may sound like something out of science fiction, Disease X is a real concern. It’s a placeholder term for the next unknown pathogen that could strike unexpectedly—just as COVID-19 did. Scientists continue to track emerging threats, emphasizing the need for preparedness.

9. Scabies

While scabies itself isn’t life-threatening, its rapid spread and intense itching can cause serious discomfort, particularly in overcrowded or under-resourced areas. Cases in parts of the UK have recently tripled, suggesting this parasitic infection may become a larger public health issue.

10. West Nile Fever

Cases of West Nile virus have nearly doubled in Europe, with some infections leading to dangerous brain inflammation (encephalitis). As mosquito-borne diseases continue to rise worldwide, West Nile fever remains a serious concern for 2025 and beyond.

11. Whooping Cough

Australia reported a record number of whooping cough cases in 2024, with infants being particularly vulnerable. Experts link the surge to declining vaccination rates. Without stronger immunization efforts, this childhood disease could become a major killer once again.

While there’s no way to predict the exact impact of these diseases in 2025, staying informed and proactive will be key in mitigating their risks.