Sars, H1n1, Ebola, Covid-19, Mpox, H5n1 and Hantavirus: Is Humanity Entering a New Era of Pandemic? Is Türki̇ye Prepared for the Next Global Outbreak?

The emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases pose persistent challenges to global health security. Outbreaks such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), influenza A(H1N1), Ebola virus disease, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), mpox, avian influenza A(H5N1), and hantavirus infections highlight the need for effective preparedness against emerging infectious threats. The concept of “Disease X” further emphasizes the importance of preparing for unknown pathogens that may cause future epidemics or pandemics. This study aimed to examine major infectious disease outbreaks and assess Türkiye’s preparedness for potential future global outbreaks. A descriptive review design was employed, based on a structured literature search and document analysis of scientific publications and institutional reports. The findings were organized and interpreted using a SWOT framework. The analysis identified healthcare infrastructure, intensive care capacity, digital health systems, and experience gained during the COVID-19 pandemic as potential strengths. However, challenges related to healthcare workforce capacity, zoonotic disease surveillance, public health literacy, coordination across human, animal, and environmental health sectors, and dependence on external sources for certain biotechnological products may constrain preparedness. Climate change, environmental disruption, international travel, migration, and global trade were identified as factors that may influence the emergence and spread of infectious diseases. Strengthening integrated surveillance and early warning systems, improving intersectoral coordination through the One Health approach, enhancing domestic vaccine and diagnostic production capacity, and expanding community-based public health education may help improve Türkiye’s preparedness for future outbreaks. These findings highlight the importance of sustained, multisectoral preparedness for emerging infectious disease threats.